| Scrape | 32 |
|---|---|
| Id | 2,451 |
| Active | 1 |
| Created Epoch | 1,738,560,573 |
| Modified Epoch | 1,745,816,684 |
| Scrape Epoch | 1,738,563,121 |
| Created | 2/2/25, 11:29 PM |
| Modified | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM |
| Status | completed |
| Notes | |
| Dataset External No | 2451 |
| Filename |
| Id | Active | Status | Created | Modified | Created Epoch | Modified Epoch | Notes | Scrape Result Id | Original Ad Id | Adarchiveid | Collationcount | Collationid | Currency | Enddate | Entitytype | Fevinfo | Gatedtype | Hasuserreported | Hiddensafetydata | Hidedatastatus | Impressionstext | Impressionsindex | Isaaaeligible | Isactive | Isprofilepage | Pageid | Pageinfo | Pageisdeleted | Pagename | Reachestimate | Reportcount | Ad Creative Id | Byline | Caption | Cta Text | Dynamic Versions | Effective Authorization Category | Display Format | Title | Link Description | Link Url | Page Welcome Message | Creation Time | Page Id | Page Name | Page Profile Picture Url | Page Entity Type | Page Is Profile Page | Instagram Actor Name | Instagram Profile Pic Url | Instagram Url | Instagram Handle | Is Reshared | Version | Body | Branded Content | Current Page Name | Disclaimer Label | Page Like Count | Page Profile Uri | Page Is Deleted | Root Reshared Post | Cta Type | Additional Info | Ec Certificates | Country Iso Code | Instagram Branded Content | Spend | Startdate | Statemediarunlabel | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2679689 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/8/25, 2:17 PM | 1738567636 | 1749410259 | 2451 | kosstom.com | Shop Now | CAROUSEL | Wear Art, Not Just a Hat | A masterpiece on your head. | https://kosstom.com/en-us/products/eugenia-in-black?_pos=2&_sid=431d41c28&_ss=r&variant=42330379223212_pos=2&_sid=431d41c28&_ss=r&variant=42331097727148 | 1.0470698854553E+14 | Kosstom | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475645899_1292885961983454_672095985673590361_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JhbM_wjZaewQ7kNvgG8M3RP&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYBA2pb0oyPgHPPRe4TjSbPTOKdaEAOxrHTsDmYVI-j1ow&oe=67A64CD0 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | A masterpiece on your head. | Kosstom | 62 | https://www.facebook.com/kosstomhat/ | 0 | SHOP_NOW | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679615 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/1/25, 2:07 AM | 1738567630 | 1748761631 | 2451 | liontutors.com | Sign Up | DCO | LionTutors - Penn State Tutoring | Don't study hard, study smart! | https://liontutors.com/ | 37403466696 | LionTutors | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/458115374_1584409525762074_6863717670943726092_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hwOwHH3wvAoQ7kNvgGs8reZ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYA5AyL35g0dP77ZFO42phfezISEU8zNrWp7oZM2F920Ag&oe=67A624E8 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Hey Penn State students, get the grades you want this semester with LionTutors | LionTutors | 7087 | https://www.facebook.com/LionTutors/ | 0 | SIGN_UP | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679788 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567647 | 1745816685 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Move In/Move Out Cleaning: Starting at $99 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473617554_1621494195127766_3143436062919977640_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Od69a_cr_qsQ7kNvgGfVZwC&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYAuaC06T1CidXg2_bISCLp48UkKP3kz4gKS6UIfPxJ-Gw&oe=67A64D39 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679773 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567646 | 1745816685 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Free Estimate | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474618559_8932847616763071_3146318129903851348_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xg3j87vEkGEQ7kNvgGTrvU-&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYDFoQqEufb_9ZQsgv-Nc9a8RsF9h2tHOYllpnut2yBNeg&oe=67A62E55 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679691 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/6/25, 12:37 AM | 1738567636 | 1749188247 | 2451 | kosstom.com | Shop Now | CAROUSEL | Wear Art, Not Just a Hat | A masterpiece on your head. | https://kosstom.com/en-us/products/eugenia-in-black?_pos=2&_sid=431d41c28&_ss=r&variant=42330379223212_pos=2&_sid=431d41c28&_ss=r&variant=42331097727148 | 1.0470698854553E+14 | Kosstom | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475645899_1292885961983454_672095985673590361_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JhbM_wjZaewQ7kNvgG8M3RP&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYBA2pb0oyPgHPPRe4TjSbPTOKdaEAOxrHTsDmYVI-j1ow&oe=67A64CD0 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | A masterpiece on your head. | Kosstom | 62 | https://www.facebook.com/kosstomhat/ | 0 | SHOP_NOW | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679814 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/6/25, 1:07 AM | 1738567648 | 1749190062 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | VIDEO | Tree Removal: Starting at $249 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473064241_596922546624228_7103470977207948331_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=axLjUA7vKywQ7kNvgE62Np0&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYDICFrmSqX8s0BOnMXxsnSxDznvUBIw2DrPPrusAROcpA&oe=67A62724 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi, I'm John, owner of Augusta Tree Removal. ๐จ Dead, Dying or Oversized Trees can be extremely dangerous due to the high risk of branches - or the tree itself - falling. Sometimes trees obstruct views or prevent construction. ๐ช My team of technicians is here to assess your property, then safely remove unwanted trees. ๐ We're locally owned & dedicated to our community which is why we're offering tree removal for as low as $249. ๐ Proudly serving Augusta, Martinez, Aiken, Evans, Grovetown & surrounding areas. Book your free quote! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679576 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/6/25, 1:53 AM | 1738567628 | 1749192813 | 2451 | elfi.com | Learn More | DCO | Check Your Rate with ELFI | Click for details. | https://www.elfi.com/find-my-rate-1/private-student-loans-elfi/?utm_source=pai&utm_medium=facebook&utm_campaign=houston | 1.6117755424076E+15 | ELFI | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475276846_507478431907784_2070700596869398744_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gaBTCl35z0kQ7kNvgGAhEV9&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYDtPFTrRAiRuYr9PpbF-1nJPOY2xDII36ufI9fzOzTmLw&oe=67A63B61 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | At ELFI, we offer a variety of loan options to fit your needs, whether youโre a parent, student, or a postgraduate. Find the loan thatโs right for you, with personalized support and no fees or painful waiting. Itโs easy to get started. Preview your estimated rates and repayment options in minutes without commitment or impacting your credit score. See the ELFI difference for yourself today! | ELFI | 6035 | https://www.facebook.com/savewithelfi/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679824 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 11:47 PM | 1738567649 | 1749185237 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | IMAGE | Junk Removal: Starting at $69 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473062472_1269042434315427_3487706646721770599_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=q-2irLLzCjEQ7kNvgGamTzl&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYCmfpqBjK7G00te-gXjYWdy4n9WJLZRbac44kj2ARopXw&oe=67A62C61 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hey, I'm Martin, founder of Bye-Bye Basura Junk Removal. For years, my team has been clearing out clutter & making spaces cleaner & more livable. ๐ We're deeply invested in the community & committed to responsible disposal & recycling. That's why we're offering junk removal for as low as $69! Proudly serving Downey, Los Angeles, Long Beach, Anaheim, Santa Ana & the surrounding areas! Schedule your free estimate. Let's talk about clearing out your clutter! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679723 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 11:53 PM | 1738567643 | 1749185603 | 2451 | www.medicalspapromos.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐ชTransform Your Face & Body with Our Rejuvenation Treatments | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/nosweat-fort-wayne-04-optin | 4.8044227515946E+14 | NoSweat Fort Wayne IN | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474386671_609492634961063_6703687587054311026_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=w3SY4TLVEKgQ7kNvgG2NCeN&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYBQDjiGi8VGNIyt-EkARnKzL8kmIKlgIyVxiuqFAiVs9g&oe=67A64A6A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ฃ ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐๐ค๐ง๐ฉ ๐๐๐ฎ๐ฃ๐ & ๐๐ช๐ง๐ง๐ค๐ช๐ฃ๐๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ผ๐ง๐๐๐จ! ๐ Say goodbye to saggy skin and hello to a more youthful look! ๐ โ Our personalized treatments can lift, tighten, and enhance the face and body, all while being safe and non-invasive! ๐โโ๏ธ ๐ฐ For a limited time only, claim a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards our most popular ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป treatment packages, including: ๐ ๐ฆ๐ธ๐ถ๐ป ๐ง๐ถ๐ด๐ต๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Non-surgical treatments that firm and tighten excess skin caused by aging or weight loss on the face and body! ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Reduce stubborn fat without the risks and downtime of surgery! ๐ ๐ฅ๐ ๐ฆ๐ธ๐ถ๐ป ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐๐๐ฟ๐ณ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Counteracts years of sun damage, acne scarring, stretch marks and large pores as it visibly removes fine lines! Safe for all skin tones, treats all areas with minimal downtime! ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ฎ๐ถ๐ฟ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐บ๐ผ๐๐ฎ๐น ($๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Gently & permanently reduce or remove hair from any area of the body! ๐ ๐๐บ๐๐ฒ๐น๐น๐ฎ ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): First device of its kind that is FDA-cleared to strengthen the pelvic floor, improve bladder control & enhance intimacy for both men and women! ๐ฉโโ๏ธ Here at ๐ก๐ผ๐ฆ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ ๐ช๐ฎ๐๐ป๐ฒ Our experienced team works to create a treatment plan tailored to each individual's unique needs and budget. Don't wait!! Request a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ now and take the first step towards a more confident you! ๐ฏ Click [LEARN MORE] to claim the offer! ๐ | NoSweat Fort Wayne IN | 19 | https://www.facebook.com/61571194635654/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679784 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/8/25, 3:43 PM | 1738567647 | 1749415393 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Quote | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474004431_1123900689463010_9215037287897539197_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=s6ZteLLw6u0Q7kNvgFFTXgd&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYAUwHiogGOyDSGtaxdCWW5jEs5SHW6efyvfZCbicwhlSg&oe=67A64CA3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679795 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/8/25, 7:29 AM | 1738567647 | 1749385797 | 2451 | okyoo.xyz | Learn more | VIDEO | โ An effective solution for prostatitis... | https://okyoo.xyz/2806.html | 1.0582824897597E+14 | Princess | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475669178_472663429232950_8101139398808652691_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0V_fS9x43FsQ7kNvgEkqzJI&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYCzOxt6zj2uH_T_pNG7xYbp2NqX7DD54SGBswPDKItFYg&oe=67A656CF | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Princess | 0 | https://www.facebook.com/100086377038497/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679558 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/7/25, 4:27 PM | 1738567627 | 1749331651 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/466514895_1113810560323269_6300818162576514335_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dO996ifPiKwQ7kNvgHgGf9d&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYBi3c0es4qjGTiQ1I0940laZDxDsElgANZBBT1IIyvyNQ&oe=67A63C95 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679566 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567627 | 1745816685 | 2451 | fb.me | Learn more | IMAGE | Need a Change? Try 3 Classes, $3! | http://fb.me/ | 2.1088721526848E+15 | F45 Training Hinsdale | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474050714_1775924489895862_8642964968396251288_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=70-pNLsrUUQQ7kNvgHHumgi&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYA9XuW2v6c436uTR5pbwREqveNzVJvfJxNSLywakSP1vw&oe=67A63278 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Hinsdale & Western Springs: Time for a Change? ๐ช Feeling stuck in a fitness rut? At F45, weโre here to help you break free with fast, fun, and results-driven workouts that leave you feeling stronger, energized, and ready to conquer your day. ๐ฅ Start now with 3 classes for just $3! But hurry, this limited-time offer ends soon. Hereโs whatโs waiting for you at F45: ๐ฅ 45 Minutes, Big Impact: Quick, fat-burning workouts that fit your busy life. ๐ฏ Guided Coaching, Real Results: Coaches whoโve got your back, so you can focus on showing up. ๐ Exciting, Fresh Workouts: No boring routinesโevery day brings something new. ๐ค A Community That Inspires: Train alongside supportive teammates who keep you motivated. โณ Act fastโspots are filling up, and youโll need to complete your 3 classes within 7 days of starting! ๐ Click โLearn Moreโ to grab your 3 classes for $3 and get ready to feel your best. | F45 Training Hinsdale | 845 | https://www.facebook.com/F45Hinsdale/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679599 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/4/25, 11:32 AM | 1738567629 | 1749054735 | 2451 | www.inlandvalleyrecovery.org | Contact us | VIDEO | Your Road To Recovery Starts Here | Break free from addiction. | https://www.inlandvalleyrecovery.org/ | 2.4115578941294E+14 | Inland Valley Recovery Services | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465171144_1461668777743019_811736859776547749_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hynarGfU3SMQ7kNvgH85gYv&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYCJN2ay51Lelgdu3npHOJo8USfr5afI_mvHbfrBz78J6w&oe=67A62986 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Are you or someone you love battling a fentanyl addiction? You're not alone. We are ready to help you. | Inland Valley Recovery Services | 2182 | https://www.facebook.com/InlandValleyRecoveryServices/ | 0 | CONTACT_US | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679554 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/6/25, 12:32 PM | 1738567626 | 1749231133 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468996094_1644239329492423_6848725030488478162_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D7fL18_1xjcQ7kNvgFpvW_c&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYAl07V0f7OrJeXfkzmctUFrbwWsBoym-Eqc6NyB7pZydw&oe=67A64EBC | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679593 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/6/25, 3:33 PM | 1738567629 | 1749241984 | 2451 | wwwedb.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | At six years old, I accidentally killed my parents. For the punishment I, an alpha female, became a slave in my own house.. My wolf's abilities were bounded, twiceโa crippling blow that left me vulnerable. As if I were nothing more than property, my brother sold me to a ruthless alpha as part of some clan contract. The rumour I've heard about him that nine fiancee has been killed by him. Then, I discovered that this ruthless alpha, the one who now owned me, was my mate ... | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475783320_629554493344224_5584425372258617468_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9SSgXzRvmwwQ7kNvgFMjLol&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYBxkmoTU2-owWghcLQddY4LLv4YgkIWR7lsZe5c1q0wIg&oe=67A64F57 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | "Where is she?" I hear the Beta scream. I groan and rise to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket before heading over. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don't make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times. "Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office." Beta Kyle spits at me. I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If only I could find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. But I didn't need another week locked up with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. "We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Don't you understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!" I don't answer, It's a trap, a ploy to provoke me into saying something that would justify punishment. I keep my eyes lowered, avoiding his gaze. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. He was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn't mess around and he had the largest pack. "He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!" We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He grabs my shoulders, his nails digging into my skin as he turns me around and kicks me into the office. "Useless Wolf." He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean against it, observing the already clean office. It looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don't quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. "Is this the way you greet all Alphas?" His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. "I'm sorry." I whisper, getting to my feet. "I...I thought I was alone." I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. "Come forward." He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey wil kill me. I step around the corner, doing as I'm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. "You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?" I nod, though I couldn't tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. "I would prefer it if you spoke to me." He growls, "I'm not in the mood to play games." "Yes." I whisper. I couldn't help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? "Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me." "I..." I hated the question. "You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It's rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?" His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact."My Wolf abilities were bound," I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn't interested in that part. He leans forward, I could feel him staring at me, "Why would someone do that?" If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. "It was a punishment." I whisper. It wasn't far from the entire truth. There's a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn't tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me "Neah, what are you doing in my office?" He turns to the crimson eyed man. "I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane." Crap, it's him. My brother spins around, hand poised to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. "I wouldn't do that if I were you."Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He is taller than my brother, more muscly too. "Neah," My name rolls off of his tongue, "was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested." What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. "Go and get Beta Kyle." Alpha Trey seethes. "Tell him our guest is here." I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. "Beta Kyle," I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. "Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you." He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. "You're lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't see sunlight for a few days." Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn't speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn't last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. "Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating." I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. "Neah is your sister, correct?" Alpha Dane questions my brother. "She is." Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. "Why do you treat her like trash?" Straight to the point, my brother wouldn't like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn't know what to do. I couldn't move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. "Neah was responsible for our parents' death." Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. "Responsible how?" Alpha Dane's voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. "She served them Wolfsbane." Don't make a sound. Don't make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. "You poisoned your parents?" "I was six." I splutter. "I just made them lemonade." My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. "Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old." "A six year old should know the difference between plants." Alpha Trey snaps "Sounds to me like she was set up." Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of me. "You weren't there, Alpha Dane." My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. "I didn't ask you here to talk about my slave!" Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha's he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha's, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. "You're right and now I have a few things to mull over." "I thought we agreed." My brother exclaims "Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out." The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. "What the heck did you say to him?" My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. "N...nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny." "Did you tell him?" Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. "WELL?" My brother yells when I don't immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. "But I didn't say it was you." I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. "If you have ruined this, you won't see daylight again." He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. "Pleaseโฆ." I beg. "He was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him." My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull... "Alpha Dane, I thought you had left." Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. "I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?" "As I said," my brother holds his ground, "She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves." "You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!" Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. "If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?" Both Alpha Trey and Beta Kyle hold their tongues. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. I see those crimson eyes land on my swollen face. "I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey." Alpha Dane speaks up again. "We have already agreed on terms." "Well, I'm adding one. And if you don't agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don't want that." "I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?" Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. "You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal." Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? "Deal." Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn't take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. "I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow." He reaches a hand out and cups my face, "Ensure you have everything packed." He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. "If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about." He struts out, slamming the door behind him. After Dane leaves, my brother grabs me by the collar. "You think you're going to have a good life if you follow Alpha Dane out of here? Don't be naive!" He continues in a vicious voice. "He's the coldest man in the world, he's killed nine of his mates, I'm waiting to see what happens to you!" | New world publications | 3796 | https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679809 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567648 | 1745816685 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Quote | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473617151_1264079664896535_1807406533138613479_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yqaYUhdTpUgQ7kNvgFtjv_q&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYABGhiom3EiEASl5SxMS0m7s77WtN1Iao-QQOTElT3DNA&oe=67A63DB2 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679810 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567648 | 1745816685 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Quote | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473617151_1264079664896535_1807406533138613479_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yqaYUhdTpUgQ7kNvgFtjv_q&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYABGhiom3EiEASl5SxMS0m7s77WtN1Iao-QQOTElT3DNA&oe=67A63DB2 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679614 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567630 | 1745816685 | 2451 | liontutors.com | Sign Up | DCO | LionTutors - Penn State Tutoring | Don't study hard, study smart! | https://liontutors.com/ | 37403466696 | LionTutors | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/458115374_1584409525762074_6863717670943726092_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hwOwHH3wvAoQ7kNvgGs8reZ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYA5AyL35g0dP77ZFO42phfezISEU8zNrWp7oZM2F920Ag&oe=67A624E8 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Hey Penn State students, get the grades you want this semester with LionTutors | LionTutors | 7087 | https://www.facebook.com/LionTutors/ | 0 | SIGN_UP | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679613 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567630 | 1745816685 | 2451 | liontutors.com | Sign Up | DCO | LionTutors - Penn State Tutoring | Don't study hard, study smart! | https://liontutors.com/ | 37403466696 | LionTutors | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/458115374_1584409525762074_6863717670943726092_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hwOwHH3wvAoQ7kNvgGs8reZ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYA5AyL35g0dP77ZFO42phfezISEU8zNrWp7oZM2F920Ag&oe=67A624E8 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Hey Penn State students, get the grades you want this semester with LionTutors | LionTutors | 7087 | https://www.facebook.com/LionTutors/ | 0 | SIGN_UP | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679563 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/4/25, 5:25 AM | 1738567627 | 1749032737 | 2451 | nordastro.com | Learn more | VIDEO | Get Yours at 50% OFF + Free Shipping | https://nordastro.com/start?qz=na1&locale=EN_US | 3.8747147444381E+14 | Nordastro | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465791709_530972976500450_5500642429359455297_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=77XOlmBeM9wQ7kNvgHs5Rwq&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYDE-wbStIEoZaGzGeV28NXpC58f1H5cEZx5eUYgszm3eA&oe=67A643FA | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | The world's first 100% personalized ASTROLOGY BOOK for your self-growth & better relationships. โจCustom design with your name & birth chart on the cover โจPersonalized birth chart analysis โจLove & relationship insights โจPersonality & life path profile โจCareer & success guidance Take a 3-minute QUIZ to create your personalized Nordastro book! | Nordastro | 11599 | https://www.facebook.com/61562597241042/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679586 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/7/25, 1:42 AM | 1738567628 | 1749278567 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465541239_1756160698552552_3016597696269694238_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NOlFB8jONJsQ7kNvgF2OTRA&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYAGWEOhZ_JzB00y5JitMEOvq04To2psPaqhktqkX0a1iw&oe=67A644E4 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679823 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/7/25, 2:57 AM | 1738567648 | 1749283074 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | IMAGE | Junk Removal: Starting at $69 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473007970_388655420973440_7865130704941881419_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o7lh2fDucKwQ7kNvgG02C3S&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYDLkr4MdT8_xVHCraBIooVcXpngDVyux1m5kZsub3xR3g&oe=67A635D6 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | It's more than just Junk Removal... ๐ Hi, I'm Martin, founder of Bye-Bye Basura Junk Removal. ๐งโโ๏ธ Decluttering soothes anxiety & invites tranquility. ๐ A decluttered space eliminates distractions, enhancing productivity. ๐ช Organizing & reclaiming your space fosters confidence, elevating self-worth. Let's get rid of that junk together! Proudly serving Downey, Los Angeles, Long Beach, Anaheim, Santa Ana & surrounding areas. Get Your Quote Now! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679682 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/3/25, 12:05 PM | 1738567636 | 1748970324 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=304554039400649&exdata=C53DCDAE4F2816FFEC9EE06943F87408335677E80F83B3B1 | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475838057_1994196757657657_9019952955937781222_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cyFMWdKY3q0Q7kNvgF_Xy92&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYBeBDNltYT8D9QTvpTdrWA5hh7J6-9t7puhVOWGlzzDng&oe=67A65726 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | After being released, her malicious stepsister threatened her with their mother's life and tried to send her to an older man. On her way to "sacrifice" herself, she unexpectedly met a mafia kingpin. She took the initiative to seduce him for a partnership. From then on, she turned the tablesโtearing apart the fake angel, slapping her stepmother, and refusing to be bullied again! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &10& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679634 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/3/25, 12:05 PM | 1738567631 | 1748970354 | 2451 | discover.mollurahairtransplant.com | Learn More | DCO | Free Consultation | {{product.description}} | https://discover.mollurahairtransplant.com/hair-transplant-sm | 1.017344995789E+14 | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474742213_1283854512693177_6207329649037280923_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i-N_Hq0gloEQ7kNvgEVfacC&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYB8IL4gWjHUnF_hg30EBRKUizOgilD520jeMLCvaJPS1g&oe=67A65518 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Turn Back Time on Hair Loss! โฐ Reclaim your confidence with a FUE Hair Transplant at Mollura Hair Restoration. Dr. Anthony Mollura has performed more than 7,000 hair restoration procedures over the last 25 years. Book your FREE Hair Consultation Today! | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | 54 | https://www.facebook.com/molluramedical/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679803 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/7/25, 12:18 PM | 1738567647 | 1749316705 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Quote: Starting at $59 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473675886_916191013967879_3365421714850973688_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JPniZc2Fr_QQ7kNvgE3DnDm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYC58VLlMRarMbDt5ONT3JxJBvr0f80Vg4vk_A8oom22YA&oe=67A63719 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679580 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/7/25, 2:40 PM | 1738567628 | 1749325230 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/467420556_551261834174244_2977659760004251380_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3rcZykvtil0Q7kNvgEeLfj4&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYDDBxu9nNB_1rEviCiSQh0DF4rdp19zfB_7BKFp70ZmgQ&oe=67A6461B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679755 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/7/25, 4:27 PM | 1738567645 | 1749331661 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Free Quote | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474551555_590073903803987_5134215720153981384_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mh8VoirrhZAQ7kNvgEajI4E&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYDlLsq_o7KxT1zz8VGc0-puZ8a1OrrCiGdxeajgHSC3Zw&oe=67A642FD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679775 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/7/25, 4:27 PM | 1738567646 | 1749331676 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | IMAGE | Save up to $5000 on Your New Pool! | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474086993_1971487936696188_3711540210437835857_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QoLbV8ZT2GYQ7kNvgE2FnYW&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYDKZ0JcTQdqv6Imu2_PA8bT5DTgpebizVze0PO0ymy4Lw&oe=67A65A1A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Hi, I'm Dan, owner of PJS Pool Installation. The cost of materials & supplies has come downโผ We will pass $5000 in savings to you! ๐ Everybody wins! Everybody swims! ๐ As a proud local business, we're passionate about creating Aquatic Masterpieces for our neighbors! Serving St. Petersburg, Largo, West and East Lealman, Ruskin, Apollo Beach & surrounding areas! Fill out the form to book your free on-site estimate & allow us to earn your business! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679703 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 12:22 AM | 1738567637 | 1749100976 | 2451 | www.nextnecklace.com | Shop now | VIDEO | Valentineโs Day, Valued Deals! | 25%OFF BUY 2+ | https://www.nextnecklace.com/?utm_source=facebook.com&utm_medium=fb-nextnecklace06-video&utm_campaign=1217-20 | 1.0932513414352E+14 | NextNecklace | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473671947_1610671619655763_2749174813732237739_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=u7sq0X2bWc0Q7kNvgH3SktJ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYBHXG5atinRS0TcNMLM_4DE4b5fxfRMtfZ7PUjWCFFo3g&oe=67A643D9 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐Spread the Love with Big SavingsโValentineโs Day Sale! โ 25% BUY 2 or more and more promotions enjoy now. Learn more:https://bit.ly/2YvuCi5 ๐Free shipping & Easy return๐ | NextNecklace | 3031 | https://www.facebook.com/nextnecklace/ | 0 | SHOP_NOW | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679594 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/8/25, 4:33 AM | 1738567629 | 1749375182 | 2451 | wwwedb.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | At six years old, I accidentally killed my parents. For the punishment I, an alpha female, became a slave in my own house.. My wolf's abilities were bounded, twiceโa crippling blow that left me vulnerable. As if I were nothing more than property, my brother sold me to a ruthless alpha as part of some clan contract. The rumour I've heard about him that nine fiancee has been killed by him. Then, I discovered that this ruthless alpha, the one who now owned me, was my mate ... | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475751502_557883053890301_1211087922233274649_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WmsecmvUo7sQ7kNvgGMaAM0&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYAyQtUkmWCJYAAAEywY_WLzowXCgSmnZaxivGXYqmoQDQ&oe=67A63559 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | "Where is she?" I hear the Beta scream. I groan and rise to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket before heading over. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don't make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times. "Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office." Beta Kyle spits at me. I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If only I could find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. But I didn't need another week locked up with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. "We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Don't you understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!" I don't answer, It's a trap, a ploy to provoke me into saying something that would justify punishment. I keep my eyes lowered, avoiding his gaze. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. He was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn't mess around and he had the largest pack. "He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!" We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He grabs my shoulders, his nails digging into my skin as he turns me around and kicks me into the office. "Useless Wolf." He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean against it, observing the already clean office. It looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don't quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. "Is this the way you greet all Alphas?" His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. "I'm sorry." I whisper, getting to my feet. "I...I thought I was alone." I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. "Come forward." He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey wil kill me. I step around the corner, doing as I'm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. "You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?" I nod, though I couldn't tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. "I would prefer it if you spoke to me." He growls, "I'm not in the mood to play games." "Yes." I whisper. I couldn't help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? "Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me." "I..." I hated the question. "You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It's rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?" His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact."My Wolf abilities were bound," I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn't interested in that part. He leans forward, I could feel him staring at me, "Why would someone do that?" If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. "It was a punishment." I whisper. It wasn't far from the entire truth. There's a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn't tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me "Neah, what are you doing in my office?" He turns to the crimson eyed man. "I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane." Crap, it's him. My brother spins around, hand poised to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. "I wouldn't do that if I were you."Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He is taller than my brother, more muscly too. "Neah," My name rolls off of his tongue, "was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested." What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. "Go and get Beta Kyle." Alpha Trey seethes. "Tell him our guest is here." I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. "Beta Kyle," I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. "Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you." He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. "You're lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't see sunlight for a few days." Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn't speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn't last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. "Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating." I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. "Neah is your sister, correct?" Alpha Dane questions my brother. "She is." Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. "Why do you treat her like trash?" Straight to the point, my brother wouldn't like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn't know what to do. I couldn't move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. "Neah was responsible for our parents' death." Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. "Responsible how?" Alpha Dane's voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. "She served them Wolfsbane." Don't make a sound. Don't make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. "You poisoned your parents?" "I was six." I splutter. "I just made them lemonade." My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. "Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old." "A six year old should know the difference between plants." Alpha Trey snaps "Sounds to me like she was set up." Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of me. "You weren't there, Alpha Dane." My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. "I didn't ask you here to talk about my slave!" Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha's he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha's, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. "You're right and now I have a few things to mull over." "I thought we agreed." My brother exclaims "Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out." The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. "What the heck did you say to him?" My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. "N...nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny." "Did you tell him?" Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. "WELL?" My brother yells when I don't immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. "But I didn't say it was you." I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. "If you have ruined this, you won't see daylight again." He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. "Pleaseโฆ." I beg. "He was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him." My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull... "Alpha Dane, I thought you had left." Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. "I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?" "As I said," my brother holds his ground, "She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves." "You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!" Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. "If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?" Both Alpha Trey and Beta Kyle hold their tongues. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. I see those crimson eyes land on my swollen face. "I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey." Alpha Dane speaks up again. "We have already agreed on terms." "Well, I'm adding one. And if you don't agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don't want that." "I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?" Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. "You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal." Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? "Deal." Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn't take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. "I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow." He reaches a hand out and cups my face, "Ensure you have everything packed." He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. "If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about." He struts out, slamming the door behind him. After Dane leaves, my brother grabs me by the collar. "You think you're going to have a good life if you follow Alpha Dane out of here? Don't be naive!" He continues in a vicious voice. "He's the coldest man in the world, he's killed nine of his mates, I'm waiting to see what happens to you!" | New world publications | 3796 | https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679601 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/8/25, 4:33 AM | 1738567629 | 1749375186 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/61215322-fb_contact-enad50_2-250126-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=233925549638247&exdata=FC3EB673E6B15A846A742D70309F49DEF214E44B322EE6A2 | 1.1646967472085E+14 | Fun Novel | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474961634_621748880504283_7644124960254616338_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ypxjNDBFFfEQ7kNvgGXQKtU&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYDdVDZyyEcPE0BeSI0iTAG_wZ5Xv0nkzkbDPBRTqjxEPw&oe=67A62C37 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Ever since my father passed away, Richard had taken on a brotherly role in my life, but he often disapproved of my closeness with other guys. Every time I found a boyfriend, Richard scared them off. I complained to my friend, "My brother is stricter than my mom!" Sandra handed me a bag of chips and thought for a moment. "Could it be that Richard likes you? You guys aren't even related by blood." Since then, I deliberately distanced myself from him, but during the New Year, he suddenly brought home a girl. "Tricia, call her sister-in-law." ===== Richard was only a year older than me, but he had always used his role as an older brother to control me. When I was younger, he'd scold me for skipping classes. As I grew older and started dating, he still interfered. One time, my friend joked, "Maybe Richard likes you? You guys aren't even related by blood." Since then, I had tried to keep my distance. But during the holidays, he suddenly brought a girl home. "Tricia, this is my girlfriend. Say 'Hi'." That night, I locked myself in my room and cried uncontrollably. He pulled me out from under the covers and gently wiped away my tears. "You could find a boyfriend to annoy me, but I couldn't do the same to you?" Lately, luck hadn't been on my side. Every time I found a boyfriend, Richard scared them off. I complained to my friend, "My brother is stricter than my mom!" Sandra handed me a bag of chips and thought for a moment. "Could it be that Richard likes you? You guys aren't even related by blood." It was true. My dad and his dad had been old friends, and ever since my dad passed away, his family had been taking care of us. My mother had always told me to treat Richard like a real brother. Even though we weren't related by blood, he was more responsible than any real brother. Back in school, he would watch me do my homework every day and even lecture me if I skipped class. He was only a year older than me, but he had always acted like an adult. Whenever I did something wrong, he'd scold me faster than my mom. "Tricia, that's not polite. Don't do that." "Tricia, don't talk badly about people behind their backs." The thought that he might like me sent chills down my spine. "Don't say that! You're going to give me nightmares!" After leaving Sandra's house, her words kept echoing in my head, as if they had put a spell on me. That night, I dreamed that Richard cornered me at the stairwell, gripping my chin and ki*sing me forcefully. "Who said you could get a boyfriend?" I woke up in a cold sweat, terrified, and immediately blocked his number. Thankfully, I was about to start my internship and wouldn't be home much longer. When I opened the door the next morning, Richard just happened to be walking by. Instinctively, I stepped back and slammed the door shut. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw his cold, piercing stare. It felt like a blade cutting right through me. Later that evening, we went to his apartment for dinner. In front of everyone, he asked why I had blocked his number. I stammered, unable to come up with a reason, and had no choice but to unblock him. "I must've clicked the wrong button..." Trying to appease him, I offered him a piece of chicken with a flattering smile. "Richard, you look so thin! You should eat more meat." But something I said must've annoyed him because he even moved his plate farther away. "No need." I had found my internship on my own, even though Richard strongly opposed it and insisted I join his company. But this time, I stood my ground and firmly refused. I was too afraid that if we spent too much time together, something would happen. The apartment we were living in had been rented by Richard, thinking I'd work at his company and we'd commute together. But after starting my job, I found a new place to avoid seeing him as much as possible. My mother would text me every day, asking what I wanted to eat. She'd have the servant cook it and then deliver it to me. I'd give her a whole list of dishes, but Richard was always the one who showed up at my door. I almost slammed it shut again. But when I saw the angry look in his eyes, I stopped myself. I forced a smile and took the food container from him. "Richard, I've missed you." He ignored me, walking around the apartment to inspect the place. "Tricia, I send you so much money every month, and this is where you live? Where's all the money gone?" I hadn't touched a cent of the money he gave me. I didn't want to owe him or his family too much. But I didn't dare tell him that. He'd just accuse me of treating him like a stranger. Honestly, my mother gave me plenty of money every month too, but I had a habit of splurging on my favorite celebrities, so I had to cut costs elsewhere. "I'm investing. High returns, you know." Being a fan was an investment, especially for a toptier star like Lanny--his merch was incredibly popular. Once I got him out of my apartment, I finally breathed a sigh of relief. I swore I'd never overindulge again! Starting my new job, I often joined my colleagues for meals to fit in better. Eventually, I ran out of money and had to call my mother for help. She transferred $50, 000 to me but gave me a strict warning. "If you waste this money on a man again, I'm cutting you off." Chapter 2 Richard's Furious Because I Spent Money On Another Guy Her voice was so loud that my colleagues started giving me strange looks. I was exasperated. I had explained to her more than once that being a fan just meant liking a celebrity and spending some money on their endorsements. But my mom never listened and kept scolding me. "Spending money on men is pointless! You should be the one letting them spend money on you, got it?" Just as I was about to argue with her again, I heard a familiar voice on the other end of the phone. "Mrs. Reynolds, has Tricia gotten a boyfriend?" Why was Richard at my home? Startled, I immediately hung up the phone. The restaurant we picked was pretty popular, and we had to wait over an hour for a table. While we were waiting, a crowd suddenly started gathering. I glanced over and saw Lanny trying to make his way through the mob. Well, no wonder the place was packed--it's a hotspot for celebrities, and fans love to flock to places like this. Lanny saw me and headed my way, with a swarm of fans trailing behind him. It was a little intimidating. Wearing sunglasses, he looked cool, but in reality, he was a total goofball. "Tricia, you're here at my restaurant? Aren't you worried Richard will get angry?" Back in high school, Lanny and I were in the same class. He was great at math, and Sandra and I once went to his house to do homework. He casually put his arm around my shoulder, like we were just buddies, and neither of us thought much of it. But when Richard found out, he beat Lanny up. Ever since then, the two couldn't stand each other. I sighed helplessly. "If I'd known this was your restaurant, I wouldn't have come." I was a fan of Lanny--I went to his concerts and bought his endorsements, but I rarely paid attention to his personal life. One time, he recognized me from the stage and said he'd just give me a ticket next time, but I turned him down. Being a fan meant spending my own money; otherwise, it was not called being a fan, it was just being friends. Lanny handed me a membership card, saying I could eat at his restaurant for free from now on. I took it, thinking that if my mom ever really cut off my funds, at least I'd have a place to get a free meal. After dinner, I got home and saw Richard standing outside my door. I instinctively tried to retreat, but he was quick and called out to me. "Tricia, come here." For some reason, I always felt guilty around Richard. All I ever wanted to do was run away. "Richard, why are you here? Have you eaten yet?" He sneered, and despite it being hot, I felt a chill down my spine. "If I didn't show up, how would I know you're out here spending time with some guy?" I opened the door and explained that it was all just a misunderstanding. But he wasn't having it. He kept pressing, demanding to know who the guy was. I refused to tell him, thinking if he found out I'd spent money on Lanny, he'd beat him heavily. Then he gave me an ultimatum. "A kept man can't make you happy. Break up with him immediately." As I stood up, the card Lanny gave me fell to the floor. I quickly bent down to pick it up, but Richard was faster. He stared at me, eyes full of rage. "You don't even have money for yourself, and you're out here paying for his meals?" I was speechless as he stormed out of the apartment. Two hours later, Laurence, Richard's assistant, called me, practically in tears. "Tricia, what did you do to upset Mr. Stewart this time? I had just finished getting ready for bed when he called me back to the office to revise the proposal. I can't be on call 24/7!" I often visited Richard at his office, so I had gotten close with his secretaries and assistants. Since starting my internship, I knew all too well the pain of being forced to work overtime. Besides, they always gave me useful information--I couldn't just leave them hanging. I called Richard, and he picked up on the third ring, clearly still furious. I was trying to think of a way to coax him without making it obvious, but he was impatient. "Say something." My mind raced. Flattery never failed. "Richard, I heard you're still working overtime? You work so hard! With you in charge, the company is sure to thrive!" He didn't seem impressed. "If I didn't work my butt off, where would you get the money to spoil some guy?" Seeing that talking wouldn't help, I bought some snacks and headed to his office. When I arrived, the lights were still on, even though it was already ten o'clock. The tension in the air was palpable. Before I even reached the conference room, I could already hear Richard's angry voice inside. Chapter 3 I Thought Richard Liked Me, But He Brought Home A Girlfriend "Did I hire you to sit around gossiping all day?" "What kind of proposal is this? Is this your first day on the job? Take it back and redo it." I knocked on the door but didn't wait for a reply before entering. Everyone inside looked at me as if I were their savior, and I could see the gratitude in their eyes. Richard was caught off guard for a moment--he hadn't expected me to show up. I cleared my throat, walked up to him, and set the food down. "Richard, you should eat something. Mrs. Stewart said you haven't had dinner." He didn't move at first, so I grabbed his arm and guided him toward his office. As I closed the door behind us, I gave the others an "OK" signal. Richard's expression softened a bit, but he still looked like he wasn't in the mood to talk. I brought him a bowl of noodles, and he didn't even leave a single bite of meat. He must've been starving. "Richard, you need to take care of yourself. Work will never end. If you keep this up, your parents will be worried sick." He looked into my eyes, and I saw a mix of emotions--too many for me to make sense of. "And what about you?" I started tidying up the takeout container, avoiding his gaze. "Of course, I'm worried too. Why else would I come looking for you in the middle of the night?" My attempt to coax him worked. He picked up his jacket, slung it over his arm, and got ready to leave. "I'll take you home. It's not safe for you to walk alone at night." In the car, I avoided his eyes, pretending to look out the window at the passing scenery. For several days, I didn't contact Richard. My mom thought we were fighting and kept urging me not to be stubborn. "Don't be so willful. Richard is busy with work, and he still makes time to take care of you." I didn't know how to explain it to her, so I just stayed silent. As work got busier, I pushed the matter to the back of my mind. We spoke occasionally, but only about work-related things. Eventually, he became distant with me. I sighed with relief, but at the same time, I felt an odd emptiness inside. Time flew by, and before I knew it, Christmas was approaching. The company gave us a holiday starting three days before Christmas. Coincidentally, Lanny was holding a concert in Alodon, so I flew over to catch it and even took a photo with him afterward. Lanny said we hadn't taken a picture together in years and asked me to send him one. I did, and moments later, I saw him post it on Facebook. "Great concert! Thanks to all the friends who came from far and wide." When I returned to Pheldence, it was Christmas Eve. For some reason, I couldn't shake this feeling of unease. Every year, our families took turns hosting the family dinner, and this year it was at Richard's house. As soon as I walked in, I heard laughter coming from the living room. I headed toward the sound and saw a gentle, elegant girl sitting on the couch. She had long hair, was dressed in a luxury coat, and carried a limited-edition handbag. Clearly, she was the same type of person as Richard. The most important thing was that she was sitting next to him, with her hand linked through his arm. Richard didn't even look at me. His attention was completely on her. I felt an inexplicable surge of frustration and placed my things on the coffee table a bit too forcefully. My mom shot me a sharp look. "Tricia, can you show some manners? You just walked in, and you're already giving attitude." Richard smiled--barely, but I noticed it. Sitting across from them, their closeness felt glaringly obvious. "So, what should I call you?" I asked the girl. For the first time since I arrived, Richard actually looked at me. "Tricia, this is my girlfriend. Say 'Hi'." I didn't know what to say. Suddenly, I understood where that feeling of unease had been coming from. Richard was in a relationship, and I was the one who felt the most hurt. I quickly greeted her, but despite the feast in front of me, everything tasted bland and unappetizing. Once I got home, I rushed to my room, buried myself under the covers, and let the tears flow freely. I didn't know how much time had passed when I suddenly heard the door creak open. I hastily wiped away my tears, pretending to be asleep. Someone walked slowly to my bedside. I could feel his gaze on me as he crouched down. He pulled at my blanket, and though I clung to it, I couldn't match his strength. I opened my eyes to see Richard standing by my bed with a faint smile. "Tricia, why are you crying just because I'm in a relationship?" ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &3& | Fun Novel | 1341 | https://www.facebook.com/100090881055588/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679736 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/8/25, 10:56 AM | 1738567644 | 1749398188 | 2451 | Get quote | VIDEO | Tree Removal: Starting at $249 | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474610050_1309811663469490_4811311341450642527_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xNYAePXNOfIQ7kNvgFlkdnZ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYCpKsVanNaqQkr_c38fj4vSPirwmBXZ-eHWxM18qdRrjg&oe=67A64CFE | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi, I'm Wayne, owner of Webbโs Tree Removal. ๐จ Dead, Dying or Oversized Trees can be extremely dangerous due to the high risk of branches - or the tree itself - falling. Sometimes trees obstruct views or prevent construction. ๐ช My team of technicians is here to assess your property, then safely remove unwanted trees. ๐ We're locally owned & dedicated to our community which is why we're offering tree removal for as low as $249. ๐ Proudly serving Tallahassee, Crawfordville, Midway, Woodville, Panacea & surrounding areas. Book your free quote! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679734 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/8/25, 2:17 PM | 1738567644 | 1749410263 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | VIDEO | Concrete Driveways: save $3500 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474670939_593604660070935_6938005200474958813_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2enGkymSN9cQ7kNvgEX8TNF&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYBTyZMXcopRRR0LU5B5QXlLQELtWp61VBOtyAl4nf1Myw&oe=67A659B9 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hey there, I'm Richard, owner of Allenโs Concrete Driveways! The cost of concrete is currently low. We donโt know how long this will last but we will pass $3500 in savings on to you! Just fill out the form to get a Quote on your Concrete Driveway Installation ๐ก Proudly local, we're passionate about enhancing the beauty & value of our community's homes. Serving Rock Hill, Charlotte, Gastonia, Huntersville, Indian Trail & surrounding areas! Get Your Free Quote! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679725 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/8/25, 4:21 PM | 1738567643 | 1749417716 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | VIDEO | Plumbing Repairs: Starting at $59 | Locally Owned | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474232536_1792088694882520_2873471331469402161_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ce_G3RM0L8oQ7kNvgE2txZg&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYC8-gncXEjzn5MFhSmS0k-FgKcdn0B3e7MG4lL5FUUZMw&oe=67A6590B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi there, I'm Raymundo, owner of High Mile Plumber! Do you really want to mess with your plumbing? No! leave it to the professionals. ๐จโ๐ง ๐ฏ Contact us ASAP if you have the following: โ ๏ธ Water Stains/Damage ๐คฎ Foul Odors Near Drains ๐จUnusual Noises in Pipes ๐ช Slow Draining or Clogs ๐ As a local business with over 15 years in the community, we're dedicated to ensuring everything flows smoothly for our neighbors. That's why we're offering plumbing services starting as low as $59! ๐ฐ๐ค Contact us to get your free quote! ๐ Proudly Serving Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, Thornton, Westminster & nearby areas. | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679551 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/8/25, 5:29 PM | 1738567625 | 1749421772 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465652985_2889717947905498_1236983899593885925_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2uwdgATKnsUQ7kNvgHfNr7b&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYBeCwiBOtj5UWBU_k38LxogqXj78PXgDWRcZ19zu0tmlw&oe=67A637FC | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679742 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/8/25, 5:29 PM | 1738567645 | 1749421776 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Quote: Starting at $59 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474060166_1330236698109906_7085573860794928411_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wn24fOUoqqgQ7kNvgGpahnX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYAJbj_EhlWJrblONvgocYbCJuNkjBKKt5b0UpuwAH9ovQ&oe=67A652FF | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679653 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 1:29 AM | 1738567632 | 1749104958 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Instant Quote! Fill Out Form | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475027862_976610124391623_2314166892718261609_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Do8Q1R3gKPoQ7kNvgEgCA84&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYBjkCKoeDOEUSBxYL85HeUa_9AdCtIktg2YNQ4lxIS_yA&oe=67A6374B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679733 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/9/25, 5:40 AM | 1738567644 | 1749465623 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get quote | IMAGE | Concrete Driveways: Starting at $1499 | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474647781_9205045986182852_1412152876709271284_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_tgFQZUrNMYQ7kNvgF6N0vT&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYA4OngvrQ269EwqYLkfYnFDjlFm9rnJwMm1KWich00sYQ&oe=67A632F6 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hey there, I'm Richard, owner of Allenโs Concrete Driveways! The cost of concrete is currently low. We donโt know how long this will last but we will pass massive savings on to you! Get your new Concrete Driveway installed for as low as $1499. Just fill out the form to get a Quote! ๐ก Proudly local, we're passionate about enhancing the beauty & value of our community's homes. Serving Rock Hill, Charlotte, Gastonia, Huntersville, Indian Trail & surrounding areas! Get Your Free Quote! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679671 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567634 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | VIDEO | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=7929461117168105&exdata=167C26038CE941832C502E2DEC37D554B2636C732E2F72AE | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475872908_1177485300477316_2325405255167838458_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wCPVy_As-MgQ7kNvgGnojLQ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYDtQY5JdmP8wnoDqnc8bOx203h-zxBubxAGksX8Gu_4rw&oe=67A645DF | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | After being released, her malicious stepsister threatened her with their mother's life and tried to send her to an older man. On her way to "sacrifice" herself, she unexpectedly met a mafia kingpin. She took the initiative to seduce him for a partnership. From then on, she turned the tablesโtearing apart the fake angel, slapping her stepmother, and refusing to be bullied again! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &10& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679649 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567632 | 1745816686 | 2451 | www.cdnjkfiw.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐Mga Anak ng Bilyonaryo๐ | https://www.cdnjkfiw.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=17755&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 3.8701676448549E+14 | Philip Spicy Reading | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474658686_599816319318802_8854742571526895822_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=u3kw02Iv8ZcQ7kNvgEwZw8e&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYCff5_9580PUlk4-fuv4LlWp7JwENJoYcMT6TDzHdyGrQ&oe=67A633F7 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Madiing tinali ni Lorelei ang sintas ng luma niyang sapatos. Kalahating oras na lang ay magsisimula na ang klase niya ngunit hinihintay niya pa ang perang ibibigay ng kanyang Tita Agnes. Pang-huling taon na niya sa kolehiyo sa kursong business management. Gusto niya ay siya na ang mag-manage sa maliit na restaurant na iniwan ng yumao niyang ina na hawak ng Tita niya. Nagsalubong ang mga kilay niya at napasandal sa lumang sofa matapos marinig ang halinghing ng Tita niya mula sa kwarto. Sigurado siyang naroon na naman ang kinakasama nitong lalaki na si Richard. "Idiin mo, Richard!" dinig pa niyang sigaw ng Tita niya. Naiiling siyang pumikit. Maya-maya pa matatapos ang mga ito kaya naman tumayo na siya at kumatok sa pinto ng kwarto. "Tita, aalis na po ako." "Oh! Ode umalis kaโRichard!" muling hiyaw pa nito. "Iyong pera ko po," paalala niya pa rito ngunit daing at halinghing ang sagot nito. Paulit-ulit niyang kinatok ang pinto. Ang huling bigay nito ay limangdaan na pinagkasya niya ng isang linggo. Ayaw naman niyang basagin ang alkansyang baboy niya na mamiso lang ang laman. Nabitin sa ere ang pagkatok niya noong bumukas ang pinto. Niluwa no'n si Richard na pawisin, tanging basketball short ang suot, may hawak din itong libo-libong pera sa kamay. Namumutok ang mga braso nito at halos masakop ang pinto sa laki ng katawan. Mukha pa itong aburido noong tumingin sa kanya kaya napaatras siya. "Istorbo," parinig pa nito bago siya lagpasan. Napamaang siya at agad na pumasok sa kwarto. Huli niya pang nagsusuot pa lang ng t-shirt ang Tita niya. "Pera lang ang habol sa'yo ni Richard, Tita. Hiwalayan mo na iyon. Ang laki ng katawan no'n at kaya no'n ang magtrabahoโ" "Huwag kang makialam sa desisyon ko at hindi naman kita anak. Ikaw ang lumayas kung gusto mo. Bukas makalawa ay dito na titira si Richard. Mas maganda siguro kung humanap ka na ng ibang matitirahan at baka maging kaagaw pa kita sa kanya. Malaki ka na, kaya mo na ang sarili mo," pinal nitong sambit bago nagsuot ng underwear. Nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata niya, "Ginagatasan ka lang ng pera ni Richard, Titaโ" "Oh ayan, dalawang libo para matikom iyang bibig mo. Huling baon mo na iyan. Gagamitin ni Richard ang pera at magtatayo siya ng talyer." Mas lalo siyang nanlumo, "Hindi po pwede iyon. Pera ni Mama ang mga iyan. Kita sa restaurant niya, Tita. Huwag naman po kayong magpabilog kay Richard!" hindi niya mapigilang ilakas ang boses niya. Napalunok pa siya at natakot noong tumayo ito at lumapit sa kanya. Matalim na ang tingin nito. "Aba! Ano'ng pera ng Mama mo? Ilagay mo sa kokote mong matagal ng patay ang Mama mo at akin na ang restaurant na iyon. Pinag-aral at pinakain na kita. Nasa tamang edad ka na at kaya mo ng magtrabaho." Ilang beses pa nitong tinulak-tulak ang noo niya. "Hala sige, layas!" galit pa nitong sigaw bago siya itulak palabas ng pinto. Pinigil niya ang mga luha. Bandang huli ay hindi niya nakuha ang dalawang libong bigay nito. Nanghiram pa tuloy siya ng pera kay Nica. "Paano ang OJT mo? Titigil ka kailan huling taon na, Lei?" Nasapo niya ang noo at napasubsob sa mesa. Simula noong maging boyfriend ng Tita niya si Richard ay naging ganoon na ang Tita niya. "Ewan ko. Hindi ko na alam, Nica." Bumikig ang lalamunan niya sa badyang pag-iyak. Ni hindi niya pinansin ang grupong lumapit sa kanila. "Si Alicia," bulong pa sa kanya ni Nica. Si Alicia ang pinakasikat sa university nila. Mayaman, makinis, at madaming kakilala. Napasilip pa siya rito. Malaki ang ngiti nito, litaw ang naka-braces na ngipin. Ni hindi gumagalaw ang kulot na buhok na kulay blonde. Napaayos siya ng upo noong maglapag ito ng papel. "We're recruiting members for our sorority. You might want to join. Tonight is the initiation," magiliw nitong saad. Nangunot ang noo niya. Alam niyang hindi magandang sumali sa sorority ngunit noong mabasa niya ang mga benefits sa papel ay napalunok siya. "Free education and free allowance. Mayayaman lahat ng kasali at mga iilang negosyante. Nagpaparami lang kami ng miyembro. No fees, all free. Don't worry about the initiation, hindi naman iyon masakit. I would love to see both of you tonight." Kumindat pa ito bago umalis kasama ang dalawa pang alagad nito. "Maganda ang benefits nila, Lei. Solve ang problema mo kapag sumali tayo." Dumukwang ito at nilapit ang tainga sa kanya, "Tsaka alam mo ba, balita ko may kasapi silang Fraternity na puro gwapo," dagdag na bulong nito bago humagikhik. Wala siyang pakialam sa mga gwapo. Ang kagustuhan niyang makatapos ng kolehiyo ang nagtulak sa kanyang sumali. Makailang beses niya pang sinuklay ang malambot, tuwid, at maitim na hanggang balikat niyang buhok. Ginamit niya rin ang lipbalm upang malambot tingnan ang mga labi niya. Kaunting polbo lang ay sinuot na niya ang puting lumang bestida niyang abot hanggang tuhod at sandalyas na naging dirty white na. Kabado pa siya noong makarating sa hideout ng mga ito. Nasa pila na rin si Nica na agad kumaway sa kanya. Mabilis siyang lumapit. "Piliin raw natin iyong sarap sabi ni Alicia. Lahat kasi ng pumili ng hirap ay dinadala sa kabila at nakakatanggap ng hampas at palo," bulong nito. "Huh? Akala ko ba hindi masakit ang initiation nila?" "Hindi nga kapag sarap ang pinili mo. Basta, doon tayo sa turo ni Alicia. Ayokong magkapeklat, Lei." Napalunok siya at hindi mawari ang kaba sa dibdib niya. Makailang beses niya pang pinisil ang mga kamay. "Nica Fernandez!" sigaw ng lalaking tingin niya ay bouncer. Nagtaas ng kamay ang kaibigan niya bago humarap sa kanya. "Tandaan mo ang pipiliin mo, Lei. Iyon ang pipiliin ko. Magkita na lang tayo ulit bukas. Para sa pangarap, Lei!" pagpapasigla pa nito ngunit hindi niya masuklian ng ngiti. Siya na ang kasunod pagkatapos nito ngunit hindi na siya mapakali. May tatlo pang babae sa likod niya at dinig niyang pipiliin din ng mga ito ang pinapapili sa kanya ni Nica. "Lorelei Carpio!" Napaigtad siya sa malakas na sigaw ng bouncer. Muntik pa siyang madapa sa pagkataranta para lang makalapit. Tumuwid siya ng tayo. Pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin. Nangunot ang noo nito ngunit hindi nagkomento. Baka iniisip nitong bata siya sa height niyang 5'5 at balingkinitang katawan. "Sarap o hirap, Miss?" hindi nakangiting tanong nito. Napalunok siya at naumid yata ang dila pero kailangan niyang sumagot. Malaking benepisyo ang makukuha niya kapag natanggap siya sa sorority ni Alicia. "S-arap po," pikit-matang sagot niya. Inangat nito ang palad at agad na lumapit ang isa pang bouncer. "Nandiyan na ba si Phoenix?" tanong nito sa tinawag. "Kadarating lang pero nasa kwarto na." "Good. Ibigay mo 'yan sa kanya at ipaalala mong birhen 'yan," utos pa nito sa lalaki. Nangunot ang noo niya ngunit napapikit noong basta na lang siya lagyan ng blindfold sa mga mata. "B-akit po may blindfold?" kabadong tanong niya. "Hindi mo pwedeng makita ang makakasama mo. Bawal mong silipin o tanungin ang pangalan niya. Kapag ginawa mo iyon, madi-disqualify ka at hindi ka tatanggapin sa grupo," paalala pa ng bouncer na lumapit. Tinatak niya sa isip ang mga sinabi nito. Napasunod siya noong hilahin siya nito sa kung saan. Narinig niya rin ang tunog ng doorknob. Marahan pa siya nitong tinulak sa loob. Sumalubong sa kanya ang mabangong amoy ng lemon. Hindi niya mawari kung air freshener iyon o pabango. "New recruit?" tanong ng mababa at tila namamaos na boses. Nanindig pa ang mga balahibo niya sa bahagyang lamig sa boses nito. "Birhen 'yan. Ingatan mo." Nahigit niya ang hininga at kinabahan noong bitiwan na siya ng lalaki. Ramdam niya bigla ang tensyon sa paligid, maging ang mariing titig sa kanya. "I'm not gonna educate you. I hope you know why you are here and why you came here... willingly," seryosong sambit pa nito gamit ang namamaos nitong boses. Mabilis siyang tumango. Ang sabi sa kanya ay mabilis lang ang initiation kaya baka tanong nga lang iyon. "Uhm, I w-ant to finish my studies; that's why I came here," kabadong sagot niya ngunit malutong pagmumura ang narinig niya mula dito. Kasunod ay ang pagbukas ng pinto, "Inosente itong ni-recruit niyo! Get her outta here!" biglang sigaw nito sa labas. "You can't back out, Phoenix. Alam mo ang mangyayari sa kanya kapag pinaalis mo siya ngayon," madiing sagot ng kung sino. Marahas na buntong hininga ang narinig niya at malakas ding sinara ang pinto. Nagtaasan muli ang mga balahibo niya sa gulat noong humawak ang may kagaspangan nitong palad sa braso niya. "I hope you won't regret coming here," mabigat nitong bulong. Nanlamig siya noong umikot ang malaking braso nito sa bewang niya. Sa tantiya niya ay malaki din ang katawan nito lalo na noong lumapat ang balikat niya sa malapad nitong dibdib. Napaatras pa siya noong maramdaman ang daliri nitong binababa ang strap ng kanyang bestida. "A-nong gagawin mo?" Humakbang ito na kinaatras niya. Mahina siyang napasigaw sa pagbagsak niya sa kama. Gulat pa siya sa malaking katawan na biglang umibabaw sa kanya. Kumalabog ng husto ang puso nita. Sakop na sakop ng malaking katawan nito ang katawan niya. "S-andali!" Sinubukan niyang pigilan ang dibdib nito kahit hindi niya nakikita ngunit hinuli nito ang mga kamay niya at parehong pininid sa kama gamit ang isang palad nito. Bumigat ang paghinga niya lalo na noong sumiksik sa looban ng bestida niya ang malaking palad nito. "You should not have come here, Miss. Now you left me no choice but to take you," mabigat na bulong nito bago lumapat ang mga basang labi sa kanyang leeg. Lalo siyang nanlamig matapos matanto ang nangyayari. Hindi siya nakakilos. Ang naglalakabay nitong mainit na palad at ang malaking katawan nito sa itaas niya ay sapat na upang mangilid ang mga luha niya. "H-uwag po," nanginig pa ang boses niya. Marahas na bumuntong hininga ang lalaki, "You chose this. I tried my best to help you. The least thing I can do... is to be gentle," tila nahihirapang bulong nito. Napalunok siya kahit pa unti-unti nitong naalis ang mga saplot niya. Niyakap siya ng lamig ng aircon ngunit natakpan sa init ng malaking katawan nitong nasa itaas niya. Ang kabog ng dibdib niya ay walang kasing lakas sa pinaghalong kaba at kung ano man ang pinaparamdam nito sa kanya lalo noong dumausdos ito pababa... sa pagitan ng mga hita niya. Nanginig ang mga hita niya noong maramdaman ang mainit nitong paghinga't bibig nitong dumampi doon. Pinagpawisan siya nang malagkit kasabay ng kaba. Tanging impit na ungol at daing ang naibulalas niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang bibig nito doon. Napapabalikwas ang bewang niya ngunit hindi ito masipa. Para siyang na-estatwa noong magtagal ito doon hanggang sa mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa mga labi niya. Hinihingal pa siya sa paggapang nito muli sa itaas niya, pinaghiwalay ang mga hita niya, at pinwesto ang malaking katawan doon. Hindi siya nakaprotesta, naumid ang dila niya at hindi mahanap ang boses niya. Sunod na lang niyang namalayan ay ang pagtulo ng luha niya sa hapdi matapos mag-isa ang katawan nila. Namilipit siya sa sakit sa bawat galaw nito. Tila napunit na nito lahat ng nasa loob niya at kahit bagalan pa nito ay hiyaw ang kumakawala sa bibig niya. Pinirmi pa nito ang bewang niya. Nawalan na rin ng lakas ang mga kamay niya na kahit binitiwan nito ay hindi siya nakakilos para itulak ito. Namimigat ang paghinga niya at napapa-igik sa bawat madiing galaw nito sa loob niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang malaking katawan nitong gumagalaw sa kanyang itaas. Ni hindi niya alam kung paanong natapos ang pangyayaring iyon. Ang alam niya lang ay nakuha ng isang estrangherong lalaki ang puri niya. Paggising niya ay nananakit ang katawan niya. Takot pa siyang alisin ang blindfold ngunit kusa iyong nalaglag. Namulatan niya ang tahimik na kwarto, walang bakas na may nakasama siya ngunit ang dugo sa kobre kama ay patunay na wala na sa kanya ang iniingatan niya. Napasubsob siya sa kanyang tuhod at napahagulhol. Masyado siyang nagpadalos-dalos sa desisyon niya! Dapat ay inalam niya muna kung ano'ng klaseng sarap ang sinasabi ng mga ito! Kahit hirap maglakad ay pinilit niya ang sariling magbihis at umalis sa lugar na iyon. Wala na rin naman ang mga bouncer. Kahit si Nica ay hindi niya mahagilap. Sa sobrang pagod niya ay hindi na niya pinansin ang boyfriend ng Tita niya na nasa sala. Diretso siyang kwarto at binagsak ang katawan doon. Ang masama, nilagnat pa siya at napanaginipan ng ilang beses ang nangyari! Tatlong araw din siyang hindi nakapasok. Para siyang lutang na naglalakad noong pumasok na sa eskwela. Natulala pa siya sa nakangiti niyang kaibigan. "Bayad na ang tuition fee nating dalawa. Ang galing! May allowance pa, Lei!" Hagikhik nito bago pinakita ang cheque na may malaking halagang nakasulat. Napalunok siya. Ito na iyon. Ito na ang kapalit ng pagsali nila sa Sorority. Dapat bang kalimutan na lang niya ang nangyari sa kanila ng lalaki? "Ang balita ko ay mga Fraternity leader ang mga lalaking iyon, Lei. Hindi ko rin nakilala ang sa'kin," kwento pa ni Nica sa kanya. "H-indi ka ba umiyak? O nasaktan? Ako kasi pakiramdam ko nahati ang katawan ko," mahinang sambit niya. Namula ang mga pisngi nito, "Hindi ko una iyon kaya... sakto lang ang sakit." Napaawang ang mga labi niya sa kaibigan. Hindi pa mag-sink in sa kanya iyon. Wala naman siyang karapatan na husgahan ito kaya tumango na lang siya. "Wala bang meeting ang Sorority ngayon? Gusto kong magtanong kay Alicia. Baka pwede ko ng makita man lang iyong Phoenix na nakasama ko," imbis ay liko niya sa usapan. "Hindi tayo natanggap doon, Lei." "A-no? P-aanong hindi? Pero bayad na ang tuition fee base na rin sa benefits nila." Umiling ito, "Bayad iyon sa'tin, Lei. Hindi tayo kasapi ng grupo nila. Hindi tayo tinanggap." Para siyang nabingi sa narinig. Kumuyom ang kamao niya. Ang ibig sabihin ay inalay lang sila sa mga Fraternity leader na iyon. Gusto niyang magdamdam at ibalik ang perang natanggap ngunit hindi niya magawa lalo na noong mas maghigpit sa pera ang Tita Agnes niya. Naka-survive siya ng halos dalawang buwan sa allowance na bigay ng grupo. May natira pa ngunit hindi sasapat iyon kaya muli siyang kumakatok sa kwarto ng Tita niya. "Tita, hihingi po sana ako ng allowanceโ" Nabitin sa ere ang kamay niya at napatingala kay Richard noong buksan nito ang kwarto. Sumandal pa ito at humalukipkip. Napaatras siya noong bigla siya nitong pasadahan ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Nagtagal pa ang mga titig nito sa mga dibdib niya kaya nayakap niya ang sarili. "B-akit ka nandito? N-asaan si Tita Agnes?" Ngumisi ito at mas niluwangan ang pinto, "Dito na ako nakatira. May binili lang ang Tita mo. Kalahating oras pa iyon sa bayan. Baka gusto mong paligayahin muna kita." Napasinghap siya sa takot at umatras "Manyak!" galit niyang sigaw dito ngunit pilit nitong inabot ang siko niya at hinihila siya papasok sa kwarto. "Mabilis lang, Lei. Hindi malalaman ng Tita mo. Tayong dalawa langโ" "Bitiwan mo ko! Ayoko sa'yo!" Malakas niya itong sinampal. Nabitiwan siya nito at sinalo ang pisnging sinampal niya. "Punyeta ka, Lorelei! Bakit mo sinampal si Richard?!" biglang sigaw ng Tita niya mula sa likod kaya natulos siya sa kinatatayuan.p Nanginig siya sa kaba lalo na sa nanlilisik na tingin ng Tita niya. "T-ita, kasiโ" "Lumayas kang Punyeta ka! Palamunin ka na nga lang hindi ka pa marunong rumespeto!" Namilog ang mga mata niya noong bigla na lang siya nitong hilahin sa buhok at kaladkarin sa labas ng bahay. "T-ita, nagkakamali kayo! Sinubukan niya akong dalhin sa kwartoโ" "Wala akong pakialam! Napakalandi mo at pati boyfriend ko inaakit mo!" sigaw nito bago siya tinulak sa labas ng pinto. Muntik na siyang sumubsob sa lupa kun'di siya nakabalanse. Malakas pa nitong sinarado ang pinto ngunit bumalik para lang itapon sa pagmumukha niya ang iilang damit. "Lumayas ka at huwag kang babalik dito! Hindi ko kailangan ng malanding pamangkin!" sobrang lakas na sigaw nito na nakapagpalabas sa mga kapitbahay nila. Hiyang-hiya siya noong magbulungan ang mga iyon. Nayakap na lang niya ang mga damit at ang alkansyang baboy niyang tinapon nito sa kanyang paanan. Nagbagsakan ang mga luha niya. Gusto niyang ipaglaban na bahay iyon ng Mama niya ngunit alam niyang hindi na makikinig ang tiyahin niya. Tinago na lang niya ang mukha sa mga damit na hawak at mabilis na nagtawag ng tricycle. Nagpunta siya kila Nica at maging ito ay gigil na gigil sa tiyahin niya at kay Richard matapos niyang magkwento. "Ipabarangay mo, Lei. Wala siyang karapatan sa bahay na iyon. Sa'yo iyon! Pati ang negosyo ng Mama mo, sa'yo iyon! Pinagkaitan ka niya, lahat ng pera ng Mama mo siya ang nagwaldas. Hmp! Kumukulo ang dugo ko sa Tita Agnes mo!" Umakto pa itong manunugod ngunit pinigilan niya sa siko at umiling dito. "H-uwag na, Nica. Hindi ko na rin naman gugustuhing bumalik doon lalo na kung naroon si Richard." "Pero paano ka? Saan ka titira? Paano ang pag-aaral mo? Patapos na tayo, Lei. Bayad na rin ang tuition fee mo." Bumagsak ang tingin niya sa sahig at nanlabo ang mga mata. Hindi niya rin alam kung paano malalagpasan iyon pero pinilit niyang maghanap ng trabaho at apartment na maliit. Sakto lang sa kanya ngunit pagod na pagod nga lang siya bilang waitress ng eatery. Makailang beses tuloy siyang nakatulog sa klase at ang huli ay nahuli pa siya ng lalaking matandang professor niya. "Miss Carpio, alam mong bawal matulog sa klase ko." Napalunok siya at hindi mapigilan ang mga pumipikit na mga mata, "S-orry, Sir. Hindi na po mauulit." Umismid ito at lumayo ngunit noong makita siya na muling pumikit ay galit na siya nitong pinalabas. Nanghihina tuloy siyang napakapit sa pader ng hallway. Naghabol ng paghinga at pakiramdam niya ay umiikot ang paligid niya. Isang hakbang pa ay alam niyang sinakop na siya ng dilim. Noong magising ay nasa tabi na niya si Nica na mukhang kinabahan. Mabilis pa itong umalalay noong pilitin niyang umupo. "Ano'ng nangyari? Tsaka bakit ako nasa clinic, Nica?" Natameme ito ngunit nangilid ang luha sa gilid ng mga mata. Binugso tuloy siya ng kaba at napatitig dito. "B-akit, Nica?" Suminghot ito, "B-untis ka, Lei." Tila nawalan siya ng paghinga sa narinig mula dito. Napalunok siya at nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata. "Hindi gumamit ng proteksyon ang nakasama mo sa initiation, Lei. Binuntis ka niya," sobrang hinang sambit nito. Bumagsak ang luha niya at nanginginig ang kamay na dumapo sa impis niyang tiyan. "Patakaran ng Fraternity nila na gumamit ng proteksyon, pero dahil buntis ka... sigurado akong hindi siya gumamit no'n," patuloy pa nitong paliwanag ngunit naba-blangko na ang isip niya lalo't hindi na niya alam ang sunod na gagawin sa buhay niya. "P-aano ko siya mahahanap, Nica? Paano na ako? Hindi ko pa kaya." Tuloy - tuloy na naglandas ang mga luha niya habang inaalala ang pangalan ng lalaki. "Phoenix. Tama, Phoenix ang pangalan niya, Nica. Hanapin na'tin. Itanong na'tin kay Alicia," pagsusumamo niya sa kaibigan ngunit umiling ito. "Phoenix is just a code name, Lei. Sigurado akong hindi rin siya kilala ni Alicia lalo na kung isa siya sa mga leader," sagot nito na nagpabagsak sa mga balikat niya. "Tingin ko, sinadya niyang buntisin ka," muling sambit nito na nagpakuyom sa kamao niya. FIVE YEARS LATER Para siyang pinutulan ng pakpak dahil sa nangyaring iyon sa buhay niya. Wala siyang choice noon kun'di tumigil sa pag-aaral at magpokus sa trabaho para may pera pagkapanganak niya. Sinubukan naman niyang hanapin ang lalaki, pati nga si Alicia ay ginulo niya ngunit bigla na lang itong naglaho na parang bula. Pati ang kaibigan niyang si Nica ay bigla ring nawala at hindi alam kung saan napunta kaya natakot siyang maghaluglog pa ng impormasyon. Ang tanging nalaman niya ay leader ng Alpha Omega Fraternity ang lalaking nakakuha sa pagkabirhen niya. Limang taon na ang lumipas ngunit hindi niya talaga makakalimutan ang nangyaring iyon lalo't dalawang supling ang pabaon sa kanya ng lalaki. "Mama, wait ka namin mamaya. Promise mo bibili po tayo ng toys?" Kumurap-kurap pa sa kanya ang biluging mga mata ng anak niyang babaeng si Odessy. Marahan siyang lumuhod at inayos ang pagkaka-pigtail ng buhok nito. "Promise! Huwag kang lalayo kay Achi ah? Makinig kay teacher," habilin niya dito bago marahang hinila din palapit ang anak niyang lalaking si Achilles. "Mama, iyong book. Isa na lang bilhin mo po, share na lang kami ni Ody," marahang paalala sa kanya ni Achilles. Pilit siyang ngumiti sa mga ito. Parehong nasa daycare ang dalawa. Pinipilit niyang maibigay lahat ng pangangailangan nila pero sobrang hirap lalo't hindi siya tapos ng kolehiyo at hindi makahanap ng trabahong mataas ang pasahod. "Hindi pwede, Achi. Kailangan tig-isa kayo. Doon kayo sasagot. Ako ng bahala. Bantayan mo ang kapatid mo. Baka makipag-away." Ginulo niya pa ang buhok ito at marahang kinurot ang hindi kalakihang pisngi. "Pwede naman ako sa papel lang sasagot, Mama," pilit nito na inilingan niya. Ayaw niya ng ganoon. Hindi niya ipagkakait ang magandang edukasyon sa mga anak niya. Hindi hangga't nabubuhay siya. "Si Mama na bahala. Ubusin niyo baon niyo. Okii?" Malawak na ngumiti si Ody sa kanya at humawak sa braso ng kapatid. Si Achi man ay pilit na ngumiti. "Mama, ingat!" sabay pang sigaw ng dalawa bago maglakad papasok sa classroom. Pinigilan niya ang naninikip na dibdib matapos tumama sa liwanag ng araw ang mga mata ng mga ito at masilayan kung paanong naging kayumanggi ang mga itim na mga mata ng mga ito. Ilang beses na niyang hinanap sa mga lalaki ang ganoong klase ng mata. Maitim kapag walang araw ngunit kulay kayumanggi kapag nasinagan. Hindi ganoon ang mga mata niya kaya sigurado siyang namana ng dalawa iyon sa mga ama ng mga ito. Hindi rin siya naniniwalang sinadya siyang buntisin ng lalaking iyon dahil hanggang ngayon, walang nagpapakilala para akuin ang mga anak niya. Bumuga siya ng hangin at agad na nagtungo sa opisina ng abogadong amo niya. Ngunit masamang balita ang bumungad sa kanya. "I'm really sorry, Lei. Ipapasara na ang firm. Sa bahay na muna magtatrabaho ang asawa ko at ako na muna ang sekretarya niya. Pasensya ka na. Huling sahod mo na 'to." Nilapit pa ni Misis Alvarez ang sobre sa kanya. Napalunok siya at napatitig doon. Dalawang taon na siyang sekretarya ni Mr. Alvarez at hindi naman lingid sa kaalamam niyang pabagsak na ang firm nito. Nilunok na lang niya ang bikig sa lalamunan niya. Sigurado siyang mahihirapan na naman siyang maghanap ng trabaho. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Umikot na rin sa isip niya ang mga bayarin niya. Simula sa renta sa bahay, sa kuryente, allowance ng kambal, at mga bayarin sa eskwela. "W-ala po ba kayong kilala na... pwede kong lipatan, Misis Alvarez?" Bumuntong hininga ang Ginang, "Tatawagan ko ang kakilala ko, Hija. Itatanong ko kung may alam siyang naghahanap ng sekretarya pero hindi ako nangangako. Tatawagan na lang kita." Bagsak ang balikat na umalis siya doon. Halos hindi siya makalunok matapos bilangin ang iilang libong sahod niya para sa buwan na iyon. Tubig nga lang ang binili niya sa convenience store habang nagtitingin - tingin sa diyaryo. Kahit ano'ng trabaho papatusin na niya kaysa walang trabaho sa loob ng ilang buwan. "Tanggal na naman?! Pang ilan na 'yan ngayong buwan. Ano bang gusto niya? Single? Walang single na babae ang papatol sa gusto ni Mr. Montanier โFine, Eman. Ako na ang maghahanap ng bago niyang sekretarya. Kainis!" Nagpantig ang tainga niya sa narinig at mabilis na napaangat ng tingin sa Ginang na aburidong binaba ang hawak na cellphone. Mabilis siyang tumayo noong akma itong lalabas sa convenience store. Nagulat ito noong pigilan niya sa braso. "Bakit, Hija?" Kumunot ang noo nito sa kanya. Sa tantiya niya ay nasa edad forty-five na ito base na rin sa iilang litaw na puting buhok. "N-aghahanap po kayo ng sekretarya?" kabadong tanong niya. Literal na pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Sa kaba niya ay nabitiwan niya ang braso nito. "May asawa ka?" Mabilis siyang umiling, "Wala po!" Tumango ito at nilahad ang kamay kaya mabilis niyang nilagay doon ang resume niya. Mabilis nitong pinasadahan ang papel bago pinasok sa bag nito. "Tanggap ka na. Sumama ka sa'kin." Walang pagdadalawang isip siyang sumama sa Ginang. Imbis na sa kumpanya ay sa malaki at modernong bahay siya dinala. Sa isang exclusive subdivision iyon. Babasagin ang dingding at kumikinang ang mga mamahaling mwebles ng bahay. Kulay abo at puti ang bahay kaya sigurado siyang lalaki ang magiging amo niya. "Ako si Melia, Hija. Pinaka-sekretarya ni Sir Hector. Bukod sa'kin, may isa pa siyang sekretarya, si Eman. Pareho kaming sa kumpanya at kailangan pa ng isa pang sekretarya ni Sir Hector. On-call at kung pwede ay stay-in." Natigilan siya sa sinabi nito, "Stay-in po?" Hindi pwede sa kanya ang trabahong ganoon lalo na kung hindi pwedeng dalhin ang mga anak niya. "Bawal ba, Hija? Kaya tinanong kita kung may asawa ka. Madalas na magtrabaho sa bahay si Hector. Workholic at umaabot ng madaling araw. Kailangan na may magremind sa kanya sa schedule at dapat niyang pirmahan. Hindi naman madalas na stay-in pero paglalaanan na kita ng kwarto dito. Wala ka naman din sigurong anak di ba? Gusto niya ay single, walang extra baggage at kaya ang trabaho. Sana naman ikaw na ang huli at magtatagal dito sa bahay niya," patuloy na paliwanag nito. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Kung ganoon hindi niya pwedeng sabihin na may kambal siyang anak. "Maglipat ka na ng iilang gamit mo. Pwede kang bumalik bukas ng umaga para pag-usapan ang sahod mo. Nasa event pa si Sir Hector at madaling araw pa babalik. Lahat ng gamit dito pwede mong gamitin. Kung masipag ka, linisin mo na rin, may dagdag sahod naman. Isabay mo na rin ang kwarto niya." "Hindi po ba nakakatakot si Sir Hector?" Natigil ito sa tanong niya. Pagkaraan ay tinuro ang malaking portrait sa sala. Sinundan niya iyon ng tingin. Nagtaasaan ang mga balahibo niya sa klase ng tingin nito sa camera. Galit maging ang magkasalubong nitong makapal na kilay. Walang ngiti ang manipis na labi at mabalbas na panga. Halata ring matigas ang panga nito. At ang ilong, sobrang tangos! Maging ang buhok nitong nakasuklay palikod ay kumikinang sa larawan. Higit sa lahat, litaw ang matipunong dibdib nitong may makapal na balahibo. Sa larawan ay seryoso itong nag-aayos sa relong pambisig. "He's Hector Montanier and he's a perfectionist. So please, beware. Huwag kang gumawa ng bagay na ikakagalit niya kung ayaw mong mawalan agad ng trabaho, Hija," madiing paalala nito kaya napalunok siya. Kaya niya ba? Kaya niya bang pagsilbihan ang lalaking sa larawan pa lang ay mukhang papatay na? Paano pa sa personal? Baka hindi na siya makahinga kapag nakaharap ito. "Gusto ka niyang makausap." Gulat pa siya noong ilahad ni Miss Melia ang cellphone sa kanya. Nanginginig ang kamay niyang tinanggap iyon at nilagay sa tainga niya. Dinig niya ang mahinang musika sa background ngunit mas dinig niya ang mabibigat nitong paghinga. "Your name?" swabe at malamig ang boses nito kaya nahigit niya ang paghinga. "L-orelei Carpio po, Sir." Mahina ngunit marahas na paghinga ang narinig niya mula dito. "Lorelei, hmm," namamaos na sambit nito sa pangalan niya at hindi niya alam kung bakit naghatid iyon ng kakaibang init sa kaibuturan niya. Mabilis niyang binalik ang cellphone kay Miss Melia. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya at hindi kayang kausapin ang bagong boss niya. "B-abalik na lang po ako bukas," tarantang paalam niya. Kahit hindi pa ito um-oo ay lumabas na siya ng bahay na iyon. May mali sa pakiramdam niya. Bakit ganoon? Bakit pakiramdam niya buong boses nito ang humagod sa katawan niya? Iniisip niya pa kung narinig na ba niya iyon noon, pamilyar ngunit hindi niya maalala. "Lorelei, hmm." Muling umulit sa isipan niya ang pagtawag nito sa kanya. Naipagdikit niya ang mga hita lalo't tila namasa ang nasa pagitan ng mga iyon. Bumigat ang paghinga niya. Parang ayaw na niyang tanggapin ang trabaho lalo na kung araw - araw niyang makakasalamuha si Hector Montanier. Tulala tuloy siya noong sunduin ang kambal. Dinala niya pa sa malapit na bilihan ng laruan para na rin makalimutan niya ang pagtawag ni Sir Hector sa kanya. "Itong teddy bear na lang, Mama. Kapag barbie, ako lang ang maglalaro, kapag car naman, si Achi lang. Pero itong bear, pwede kaming share, Mama!" Masiglang tinaas pa ni Ody ang maliit na puting teddy bear. Nahabag siya sa mga ito. Hindi man lang niya maibili ng kahit tig-isang laruan. Hindi man lang niya mapakain sa sikat na fastfood ang mga anak. Mabilis siyang tumango ngunit umiwas ng tingin noong mapansin ang paninitig ni Achi sa kanya. Binayaran na lang niya ang teddy bear para makauwi na sila. Akala niya ay nakaligtas na siya sa mapanuring titig ng anak ngunit hindi. "Mama, iyong book. Kailangan na raw bilhin. Isa na lang, Mama. Kay Ody na lang. Kung hindi pwede, sa susunod na lang po ako mag-aral," kalmadong pagkausap ni Achi sa kanya. Parang pinilipit ang puso niya. Hindi niya hahayaan na mangyari iyon! Hindi deserve ng mga anak niya na maranasan ang nangyari sa kanya. "Hindi, Achi. Bibilhin natin bukas iyon. May bago na akong trabaho." Pinisil niya pa muli ang pisngi nito. Namula nga iyon lalo na't sobrang puti ng dalawa. Ang balak tuloy niyang pagtanggi na sa trabaho ay naudlot. Mas kailangan niya pala iyon. Bahala na kung ano'ng klaseng tao si Sir Hector, basta siya, trabaho lang ang gusto niya. Kinabukasan ay kinausap niya ang mga ito na gagabihin siya. Ayaw niyang iwanan pero hindi niya pwedeng isama. Kung malaki ang sahod niya ay kukuha siya ng bantay para sa mga ito. Kabado siyang bumalik sa malaking bahay. Sa harap pa lang ng pinto ay kumakalabog na ang dibdib niya. Kita na niya roon ang mamahaling sport car na wala kahapon. Nanginginig tuloy ang kamay niyang i-input ang code na pinadala pa sa mensahe ni Miss Melia upang mabuksan niya ang pinto. Pagbukas ay tumambad sa kanya ang pares ng mamahaling itim na sapatos. Pinulot niya iyon upang maitabi. Ngunit nabaling ang atensyon niya sa mahinang hilik sa sala. Kinakabahan siyang lumapit. Tumingkayad para lang masilip ang bagong boss niyang mahimbing ang tulog sa sofa. Halos hindi nga ito magkasya doon sa laki ng katawan. Ang isang binti nito ay nasa sahig habang ang isa ay nasa arm rest. Unan nito ang namumutok na braso at higit sa lahat ay bukas ang suot nitong puting longsleeve kaya't malaya niyang nasilayan ang makapal na balahibo sa matipuno nitong dibdib. Napalunok siya at imbis na lumiko ay umakyat ang tingin niya sa awang nitong mga labi. Namumula at nakasilip pa ang pantay-pantay na puting ngipin nito. Sa totoo lang, para itong modelo ng brief at toothpaste na lumabas sa magazine. Pati panga ay naninigas at sigurado siyang hindi basta-basta ang alaga nito sa ibaba. Ano bang pinag-iisip niya?! "Are you done checking me out, Miss?" namamaos pang bigkas nito bigla kaya napasinghap siya. Nabitin sa ere ang paghinga niya at namilog ang mga mata noong magkatitigan sila. Inaantok pa ang itim nitong mga mata at sobrang haba ng mga pilikmata kaya lalo siyang hindi nakapagsalita. "Close your mouth. Your lips look so delectable," inaantok nitong bigkas muli ngunit iba ang dating ng boses sa kanya kaya nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Ang boses nito ay parang kagagaling sa nakakapagod na ehersisyo sa kama. Magaspang na namamaos. "Close them... please. I might kiss you if you keep drooling on me. Do you want me... to take you here?" biglang tanong nito kaya namula lalo ang mga pisngi niya. Para siyang naeskandalo at hindi na makatingin dito ngunit nahuli niya ang pag-angat ng gilid ng labi nito. Hindi iyon ngiti kun'di maliit na ngisi. Lumitaw pa sa kanang gilid ng labi nito ang hindi kalalimang dimple. "Just kidding. Let's talk inside my office," bawi nito bago biglang bumangon. Mabilis siyang umiwas at napayuko noong basta na lang ito nag-alis ng butones ng longsleeve nito at swabe iyong hinubad. "Do I smell liquor?" mabigat na tanong nito kaya lang ay ayaw niyang lumingon dito kaya nanatili ang titig niya sa sahig. "I'm asking you. Amoy alak ba ako, Lorelei?" halos paos na naman ang boses nito kaya napapikit siya nang mariin. Iba talaga ang hagod ng boses nito sa katawan niya. Lahat ng balahibo niya ay nagtataasan at pati puson niya ay nakikiliti. Napalunok siya noong maramdaman ang paglapit nito. Pagmulat pa niya ay mabalahibong paa ang nakita niya sa harap ng mga paa niya. "N-o, Sir. H-indi po kayo amoy alak," kabadong sagot niya noong akma siya nitong hahawakan. Pag-angat ng tingin niya ay seryoso itong naninitig sa kanya. Salubong ang kilay. Hindi niya nga maitutok ang tingin sa mukha nito lalo't nakabalandra sa harap niya ang hubad nitong katawan. Bumigat ang paghinga niya at gusto na lang pindutin ang matitigas nitong muscles. "In my office," may awtoridad na nitong utos bago tumalikod. Napabuga siya ng hangin. Napapaypay sa sarili at hindi maiwasang manghina. Parang naubos ang lakas niya dito. Sinulyapan niya na lang ang matipuno nitong likod na pumasok sa isang pinto. Huminga siya nang malalim nang ilang beses at binalik ang mga sapatos sa sahig bago sumunod. Nakasandal na ito sa swivel chair at mukhang hinihintay siya. Nahuli niya agad ang mariing titig nito. "Here, Lorelei," malalim na sambit nito at marahang tinipa ang daliri nito sa mesa. Tahimik siyang lumapit kahit nahihiya. Na-conscious siya sa paninitig nito at pakiramdam niya ay hubad na siya sa isip nito. "I might require you to work 24/7, so make sure you don't have any extra baggage to attend to. Don't worry, I'll pay you triple or name your price," seryosong saad nito matapos iabot sa kanya ang blankong cheque na may pirma na nito. Napatitig siya doon ngunit hindi inasahan ang pagtayo nito at paglapit sa likod niya. Muli siyang naestatwa matapos maramdaman ang init ng paghinga nito sa bandang tainga at leeg niya. Hindi pa siya nakakilos noong lumapat sa bewang niya ang mainit at malaking palad nito. "S-ir," kabado niyang bigkas. "Single?" imbis ay tanong nito kaya mabilis siyang tumango. "Good. Birhen?" sunod na tanong nito kaya nanlaki ang mga mata niya. Hindi siya makasagot. Sasabihin ba niyang may anak na siya at kambal pa? Baka hindi siya nito tanggapin! "Y-es, Sir," pagsisinungaling niya. Marahas itong huminga na tila nahihirapan at nagpipigil. Napaangat nang bahagya ang balikat niya noong tumama doon ang matangos nitong ilong na tila inaamoy siya. Nakiliti pa siya sa mabalbas nitong pangang na humagod sa balat niya. "Perfect for me," halos dumikit pa ang labi nito sa paos nitong bulong kasabay ng pagdiin ng palad nito sa kanyang bewang na tila gusto na siyang sunggaban. Hindi niya alam na kanina pa niya pigil ang paghinga kung hindi lang ito lumayo. "Ikukuha kita ng dress. We'll attend an event," pinal na sambit nito kaya namilog ang mga mata niya. "Po? Sir, hindi po pwedeโ" Mas namilog ang mga niya noong tumama sa mga labi niya ang hintuturo nito upang patigilan siya. "Shhh. Sasama ka. You're now my secretary. Kung nasaan ako, doon ka." madiing sagot nito na akala mo ay hindi iyon big deal. Hindi siya makareklamo. Paglabas ng opisina nito ay gusto niyang ibalik ang cheque. Tinawagan niya rin si Miss Melia. "Hindi ka pwedeng umatras, Lorelei. Lagyan mo limang milyon iyang cheque niya para makabawi ka kung gusto mo. Kumpara sa mga nauna sa'yo, mas pabor si Sir Hector sa'yo. Mag-enjoy ka na lang sa event, Hija." Napirmi ang mga labi niya. Dapat pala pinag-isipan niyang mabuti. Napilitan tuloy siyang mag-ayos. Hindi pa siya kumportable sa baby blue cocktail dress na inorder nito. Yukong-yuko siya noong titigan nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya matapos masulyapan ang madiing titig nito. Para tuloy siyang hindi makahinga sa paninitig nito. Pakiramdam niya ay hinuhubaran na siya nito sa isip pa lang. "Chin up. You look... gorgeous," mahinang papuri nito. Sinubukan nitong hawakan ang bewang niya ngunit umiwas siya. Hilaw siyang ngumiti. "Alis na po tayo para agad makabalik, Sir." Nauna pa siya sa harap ng sasakyan nito. Nanliliit ang tingin nito noong pagbuksan siya ng pinto. Mali ba na umiwas dito? Boss niya ito at mali na magustuhan siya nito. Umikot ito sa driver seat noong makaupo na siya. Namroblema pa siya paano aayusin ang seatbelt ngunit nahigit niya ang hininga noong ito mismo ang umagaw sa seatbelt niya at nag-ayos no'n. Nasamyo niya tuloy ang matapang nitong pabango na may halong lemon. Akala pa niya ay ang air freshener pero hindi, amoy lemon talaga ito at masarap sa ilong. Maliit itong nangunguso noong paandarin ang sasakyan. Umiiwas siya ng tingin dito. Kumakalabog ang dibdib niya ngayong nasa isang sasakyan lang sila. Kinipkip niya pa ang bag sa mga hantad niyang hita. "How old are you, Lorelei?" biglang tanong nito na muntik magpatalon sa kanya sa upuan. "T-wenty five, Sir." "Hm. Never been touched? Never been kissed? And of course, never... Am I right?" senswal at bulgar nitong tanong. Tumiim bagang siya. Alam na niya ang kalibre nito kung bakit gusto nito ng Birhen. Sigurado siyang marami na rin itong naikama at delikado siya kung hindi siya mag-iingat. "I'm not comfortable with tbose questions, Sir," pag-amin niya. Hindi ito kumibo. Nasilip niya ang pagsasalubong ng kilay nito. Nakasandal na nga ang siko nito sa bintana at pinaglalaruan ng mga daliri nito ang ibabang labi nito. Isang kamay lang ang gamit nitong pagdrive. Nakarolyo ang asul na manggas ng longsleeve at ang lakas manampal ng kayamanan ng mamahaling relo nito. "Would you like to pretend to be my girlfriend?" biglang tanong nito sa kawalan. "Po?" Umigting ang panga nito, "My ex will be there with her new boytoy. Ayoko talagang magpunta na mag-isa, but I have to show up. It's business related. Ipapakilala kitang bagong girlfriend ko. Don't worry, I'll pay you for this," paliwanag nito. "Pero, Sirโ" "Just this once, Kitty. After this, you can be just my plain secretary." Napakurap siya at napalinga pa sa backseat kung sino ang tinawag nitong Kitty. "Cute, Kitten," nangingising sambit nito sa reaksyon niya. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Walanghiya! Siya pala ang pusa! Wala rin siyang nagawa noong pagdating nila sa event ay ito mismo ang nag-ayos sa braso niya pakapit sa braso nito. "Just stay beside me, Kitty. Smile as if you are head over heels for me," nakangising paalala nito. Sa dami ng mga bigating tao ay naging peke ang ngiti niya. Sa isang pabilog silang mesa napunta at naupo. Ramdam niya agad ang titig ng isang babae sa kanya na tila gusto siyang patumbahin. "Oh gosh, you got a new girl, Hector. I'm happy for you, Hijo. Hindi sana magloko katulad ng nauna," ani ng isang Ginang na bobo kay Sir Hector. Tumabingi ang ngiti niya habang ang babaeng nakatitig sa kanya ay umirap. Humilig pa ito sa braso ng lalaking katabi. "We should go home early, Babe. Bawal magpuyat ang buntis," dinig niyang bulong nito sa lalaki. Ramdam niya ang paninigas ng katawan ni Hector at kahit nakangiti ito sa mga kausap ay pansin naman niya ang panaka-nakang pag-igting ng panga nito. "Alejandro and I are having a baby boy, Mrs. Sarmiento," dinig niyang sagot ng babae matapos itong tanungin sa pinagbubuntis. Hindi na nga niya ito nilingon bagkus ay natutok ang titig niya kay Hector na naging sunod-sunod ang inom ng alak. Hindi siya nakatiis at inagaw ang brandy na hawak nito at ininom iyon. "What are you doing?" bulong na tanong nito. "Hindi ka pwedeng malasing. Magda-drive ka pa," madiing bulong niya pabalik. Lumapit ito at nagtaasan ang mga balahibo niya noong dumikit ang ilong nito sa leeg niya. "My Kitty is concern," namamaos nitong bulong kasabay pa ng pagdapo ng mainit nitong palad sa hita niya. Ginalaw niya ang hita ngunit dumiin ang kapit nito. Wala tuloy sa sariling napainom siya ng alak. "Crizaa, come back here!" Nabaling ang atensyon niya sa lalaking Alejandro yata ang pangalan. Tinatawag nito ang babaeng masama ang titig sa kanya na nag-walk out ngayon lang. Doon lang nawala sa hita niya ang palad ni Hector. Lumagok pa ito ng alak bago tumayo. "Comfort room," paalam nito pero ang titig ay nasa babaeng papalayo. Hindi niya alam kung bakit nadismaya siyang sinundan nito ang babae. Umiwas na lang siya ng tingin at tahimik na uminom. "Ngayon lang kita nakita, Hija. Gaano na kayo katagal ni Hector? Anim na buwan pa lang naman kasi silang hiwalay ni Crizaa," baling sa kanya ng Ginang kanina. Hilaw siyang napangiti, "Three months po," pagsisinungaling niya. Napatango ito. Mabuti na lang at hindi na ito nagtanong muli dahil hindi na niya alam ang isasagot. Nakuha niyang makaubos ng alak ay hindi na bumalik si Hector. Nahihilo na nga siya noong magpunta sa parking lot para doon ito hintayin. Saktong kapapadala niya ng mensahe sa kapitbahay niyang si Ria para tingnan ang kambal noong mamataan si Hector. Napatuwid siya ng tayo noong makita na itong papalapit. Halatang galit kaya hindi na siya nagtanong. Agad na lang siyang pumasok sa sasakyan noong patunugin nito. Maging sa biyahe ay ramdam niya ang galit nito sa hindi malamang dahilan. Madiin ang hawak nito sa manibela. Isa lang ang sigurado niya. Nakausap nito si Crizaa at tiyak na nabigo ito lalo't noong pagdating nila sa bahay nito ay kitang-kita niya ang bumagsak na luha sa gilid ng mga mata nito. Nahabag siya dito, "Sirโ" "Go home, or if you want, you can sleep in one of the guestrooms. Thank you for today, Lorelei," pagtataboy nito sa kanya. Hindi niya alam kung dahil lang sa kalasingan kaya hindi niya ito maiwan. Naaawa siya rito. Agad siyang kumuha ng tissue, lumuhod sa upuan at inabot ang pisngi nito. Pareho pa silang natigilan noong hawakan nito ang kamay niya. "Don't. I'm not weak," pamimilit nito. Naamoy niya ang brandy sa hininga nito at sa malamang ay pareho lang silang may tama ng alak. Napalunok siya noong matitigan ang mga mata nitong dumilim. Balewala niyang pinunasan muli ang pisngi nito ngunit muli nitong pinigilan ang kamay niya. "S-irโ" "If you keep doing that, sa kama tayo babagsak. Umuwi ka bago pa magbago ang isip ko at ipinid ka sa kama," pagbabanta nito. May choice siya, pinapatakas siya nito pero ang katawan niya ay ayaw kumilos. Baka dahil lasing siya. "Pagbilang ko ng lima, lumabas ka na ng sasakyan. I have no mercy when it comes to bed, Kitten," mabigat na bulong nito. Nanuyo ang lalamunan niya at mas lalong hindi nakakilos. "One," pagsisimula nito, nagsimula rin ang mainit nitong palad na umakyat sa hita niya. "Two, get out, Kitty," sobrang paos na sambit na nito habang ang kamay ay nahanap ang garter ng underwear niya. "P-ero, Sirโ" "Five. Pagmumura pa nito bago hatakin ang bewang niya at siilin siya ng halik. Mabilis nitong hinila ang bewang niya at pinaupo siya sa kandungan nito. Nahatak niya ang longsleeve nito matapos nitong ipasok ang dila sa bibig niya habang ang palad nito ay nahatak paalis ang underwear niya. Nahanap ng palad nito ang pagkababae niya at diniin ang daliri doon na kinasinghap niya. Hindi siya makasabay sa halik nito. Naliliyo siya maging sa paghagod ng mga daliri nito sa pagkababae niya. Nanigas ang mga tuhod niya sa kiliti sa puson niya at pamamasa. Hindi siya makahinga nang maayos. Inayos ng isang palad nito ang mga hita niya at pinwesto sa bawat gilid nito. Marahan itong dumukwang at halos isandal siya sa manibela masiil lang siya ng halik muli. Tuluyan na siyang hindi nakasagot ng halik matapos naging mabilis ang hagod ng mga daliri nito sa kanyang ibaba. Napapasinghap siya at ang maiksing katinuhan sa utak niya ay nasakop na ng impluwensya ng alak. "Ahh!" mahinang halinghing niya noong bumaba ang mga labi nito sa panga niya. "I'm giving you another chance to run. Run, Lorelei," udyok na bulong nito kahit pa binababa na nito ang zipper ng dress na suot niya. Napapikit siya. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya sa sobrang init. Bumakas sa mukha niya ang bahagyang ngiwi noong dumausdos papasok ang isang daliri nito. "Not running away? Baka di ka na makalakad bukas. I'm telling you, I'm big," paos at mabigat muli nitong bulong na tila nagtitimpi. Hindi niya alam ngunit lalo siyang namasa sa boses nito. Doon nga lang nag-sink sa kanya na kapag natuloy sila, malalaman nitong hindi na siya Birhen. Mabilis siyang napamulat sa naisip. Balak niya sana itong itulak ngunit paghigit sa damit nito ang nagawa niya noong dumagdag ang daliri nito sa loob niya at sunod-sunod na umulos. "Lintik" hingal niyang pagmumura. Paano pa siya tatakbo kung ang titig nito sa kanya ay nanlalapa? Maalab at alam niyang hindi na ito mapipigilan. Nagawa nitong alisin ang bestida niya. Nailiyad niya pa ang dibdib ngunit agad na sinakop ng mainit nitong bibig ang isa at halos ubusin nito. Nahatak niya ang braso nito upang doon kumuha ng balanse. hubad na siya lahat habang ito ay kumpleto pa ang suot. Pati ang relo sa bisig nito ay naroon pa. "Uhhhh, S-ir!" hiyaw niya noong lalong bumilis ang mga daliri nito sa loob niya. Hindi niya una iyon pero may hapdi pa rin sa kabila ng sensasyong nararamdaman niya. Bumalik tuloy ang alaala niya kung paano nabuo ang kambal niyang anak. Kagaya ni Sir Hector ang lalaki, may kalakihan ang katawan. Ang pinagkaiba lang ay may rahas ang kilos ni Sir Hector. Naitaas niya ang tuhod noong mamilipit sa sarap ang puson niya. Mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa bibig niya matapos maramdaman ang pag-abot niya sa rurok. Hindi tumigil ang mga daliri nito sa pag-ulos ngunit pinakawalan ng bibig nito ang dibdib niya. Naghahabol siya ng hininga noong nilayuan nito ang leeg niya at dibdib. Wala sa sariling nakagat niya pa ang ibabang labi sa paghugot nito sa mga daliri nito. Gulantang nga lang siyang makitang sisubo nito ang mga iyon. "Sir!" pigil niya dito ngunit wala na, napapikit na ito sa pagsubo no'n. Agad pang ngumisi at bahagyang pumasada ang dila sa ibabang labi nito na tila hindi pa ito kuntento. "Addictive," sobrang paos na sambit nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Alam niyang may tama rin ito sa alak kaya nasabi iyon pero hiyang-hiya siya! Hindi pa siya nakababawi noong marinig ang pagbukas nito sa pinto. Napalunok siya at napakapit sa mga balikat nito noong buhatin siya sa ganoong ayos. Inikot pa nito ang mga hita niya sa bewang nito. "You're Birhen. This will hurt. Hindi pwede sa sasakyan. Saka na... kapag sanay ka na," namimigat nitong bulong na nagpatigil sa paghinga niya. Kumalabog ang dibdib niya. Dumiin ang kapit sa balikat nito noong pumasok ito sa bahay at iakyat siya sa kwarto. Marahan pa siya nitong binagsak sa kama ngunit mabilis na lumuhod sa sahig. Sumisinghap pa lang siya ng paghinga ay pinag-hiwalay na nito ang mga hita niya at agad na sinubsob ang bibig nito sa pagkababae niya. "Sir! Uhโohh!" Pinatigas agad nito ang dila at tinukso-tukso siya. Alam na alam nito ang gagawin. Nawala na nga sa isip niyang hindi pa siya nakapag-shave pero kung hagurin ng dila nito ang ibaba niya ay tila paboritong pagkain nito iyon. "Ahh!" Nailiyad niya ang katawan at naitaas ang bewang na mabilis nitong hinila upang mas maidiin ang bibig nito doon. Ang ngipin nito ay sumasabay kaya halos mahila na niya nang buo ang bedsheet sa nararamdamang init. Pinagpawisan na siya kahit pa malakas ang aircon sa kwarto nito. Hindi yata ito tumigil hangga't hindi naririnig ang mahabang ungol niya, senyales na muli niyang naabot ang langit. Hindi niya maisara ang bibig sa pagsimot nito doon. Kahit noong tumayo na ito ay nanghihina siya at hindi maisara ang mga hita niya. Maliit niyang minulat ang mga mata. Huli niya ang mainit nitong titig sa katawan niya habang nagtatanggal ng kasuotan. Pati mamahaling relo nito ay basta lang nito tinapon sa sofa. Ora mimso noong mahubad nito ang mamahaling boxer short ay gumapang ito sa itaas niya. "Ibuka ang iyong mga binti nang mas malawak, Kitty," senswal nitong utos. Kumakalabog lalo ang dibdib niya at nanunuyo ang lalamunan kahit pa sa hita pa lang niya dumikit ang naghuhumigting nitong sandata. Palad na mismo nito ang humagod sa mga hita niya at mas pinaghiwalay ang mga iyon. Napapikit siya noong tuluyang tumama ang sandata nito sa kaselanan niya. Paulit-ulit na humagod na tila tinutukso siya. Pati ang ilong at bibig nito ay panaka-nakang humalik sa leeg at panga niya na tila dinidistract siya nito. "Sir~" hirap niyang bulong at napakapit sa matigas nitong braso noong maramdaman ang dulo ng sandata nito. Tama ito! Malaki ito at duda siyang kakasya sa kanya. Baka muli lang siyang mapunit nito! Ang balak niyang pagtulak sana dito ay nauwi sa pagkapit sa braso nito noong pilitin nito ang pagpasok. Sumigid ang sakit sa kanya at halos magdugo ang labi sa pagkagat niya. Iyon ang pangalawang beses niya pero sa tagal na siguro ng panahon ay pakiramdam niya, unang beses pa lang niya iyon. Kita niyang umigting ang panga nito at tumalim ang tingin. Kinabahan siyang baka nahuli na siya nito pero nahanap nito ang mga palad niya at parehong pininid sa itaas ng ulo niya. Pinagsalikop nito ang mga kamay nila bago sinagad ang pagpasok na kinahiyaw niya. "Ahh!" Hindi niya ito mapalo, hindi niya mabawi ang mga nakapinid na kamay. Pinuno naman nito ng halik ang mukha niya. "Soon, the pain will fade away, Kitty," panunuyong bulong nito. Hindi na niya makilala ang sariling paghinga. Hinayaan siya nitong kumalma ngunit hindi rin ito nakatiis at nagsimulang umulos nang mabagal. Dinidiinan na lang niya ang kapit sa mga kamay nito kapag sinasagad nito nang buo sa loob niya. Dinig niya ang magaspang nitong ungol at tila nahihirapan ding bumayo sa loob niya. Para itong nagtitimpi sa mabagal na paggalaw. "H-indi ka gumamit ng goma, Sir," wala sa sariling sambit niya. "Doesn't matter. I will do withdrawal, don't worry," pagpapakalma nito. Ilang beses siyang lumunok. Ang balakang niya ay napapataas noong bumilis nang bahagya ang galaw nito. Malinaw sa pandinig niya ang pagsusumpungan ng mga kaselanan nila. Nangangalay ang mga hita niya sa pagkakahiwalay at halos lumubog sa kama sa laki ng katawan nito. "Ow!" malakas niyang hiyaw na hindi niya alam kung ilang beses niya naisigaw noong dumoble ang bilis nito. Para itomg may hinahabol at hindi magkamayaw. Ang kama nito ay tumutunog kasabay ng tunog ng kanilang mga katawan. Para itong nawala sa sarili at nagsunod-sunod ang pagbayo sa loob niya. Naghalo ang pawis nila at maging mga ungol. Napuno ang kwarto ng mga hiyaw niya. Nanghihina na siya noong maramdamang malapit na siya. Nagmadali rin ito at sunod sunod ang ulos hanggang sa magkapanabay silang mapaungol. Pinakawalan nito ang mga kamay niya kasabay ng mainit na likidong bumuhos sa loob niya. Parang tumigil ang tibok ng puso niya. Sa loob nito pinutok! Kinabahan siya. Hinihingal itong bumagsak sa itaas niya. "Sleep, Kitty," inaantok pa nitong bulong. Nataranta siya at gusto itong itulak ngunit napakalaki nito. Sumiksik pa ito sa dibdib niya at wala yatang pakialam kahit nasa loob pa niya ang sandata nito! "Sir, uuwi po ako," pilit niyang gising at tulak dito ngunit humigpit ang yakap nito sa bewang niya. "Later, stay still. Huwag kang gagalaw. Huwag mong gisingin," halos bulong na lang na sambit nito. Nanlamig siya sa tinutukoy nito. Pati tuloy paghinga niya ay napigilan niya huwag lang magising ang sandata nito. Para siyang timang na naghintay na humiwalay ito ngunit hindi niya rin namalayang nakatulog na siya. Paggising ay sikat ng araw ang tumama sa mga mata niya. Nasilaw siya at nahirapang magmulat ng mga mata. Masakit ang katawan niya, partikular ang pagkababae niya at mga hita. Doon nga lang din rumehistro sa kanya ang nangyari kagabi. "Punyeta!" napamura siya matapos matantong umaga na pero naroon pa rin siya sa kwarto ni Sir Hector. Mabilis niyang nilingon ang katabi ngunit wala na ito doon. Hindi na nga niya maalala kung ano'ng oras ito umalis sa itaas niya. Hihinga na sana siya nang maluwag kung hindi lang naramdaman ang madiing titig sa kanya na tumatagos sa balat niya. Napalunok siya at unti-unting napatingin sa harap niya. Sumikdo ang dibdib niya at nahila ang kumot. Naroon sa paanan niya si Sir Hector, nakaayos na ng business suit, nakapamulsa habang may hawak na baso ng brandy. Pinaghalong madiin at malamig na titig ang natanggap niya dito at noong liningon nito ang kama na walang bahid ng dugo, alam na niya agad ang nasa isip nito. "S-ir, m-agpapaliwanag po ako," sobrang kabang sambit niya lalo't tumalim ang titig nito at umigting ang panga. | Philip Spicy Reading | 83301 | https://www.facebook.com/61561349855790/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679590 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567628 | 1745816685 | 2451 | wwwedb.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | At six years old, I accidentally killed my parents. For the punishment I, an alpha female, became a slave in my own house.. My wolf's abilities were bounded, twiceโa crippling blow that left me vulnerable. As if I were nothing more than property, my brother sold me to a ruthless alpha as part of some clan contract. The rumour I've heard about him that nine fiancee has been killed by him. Then, I discovered that this ruthless alpha, the one who now owned me, was my mate ... | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475690523_1257101525369935_6681996275927040422_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=867HuVE02JoQ7kNvgFuGhlg&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYBrbDEwilabi3UbGPbmusv-a6sspxmKTbznqF9-2VdMSQ&oe=67A65A9F | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | "Where is she?" I hear the Beta scream. I groan and rise to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket before heading over. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don't make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times. "Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office." Beta Kyle spits at me. I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If only I could find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. But I didn't need another week locked up with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. "We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Don't you understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!" I don't answer, It's a trap, a ploy to provoke me into saying something that would justify punishment. I keep my eyes lowered, avoiding his gaze. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. He was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn't mess around and he had the largest pack. "He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!" We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He grabs my shoulders, his nails digging into my skin as he turns me around and kicks me into the office. "Useless Wolf." He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean against it, observing the already clean office. It looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don't quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. "Is this the way you greet all Alphas?" His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. "I'm sorry." I whisper, getting to my feet. "I...I thought I was alone." I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. "Come forward." He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey wil kill me. I step around the corner, doing as I'm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. "You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?" I nod, though I couldn't tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. "I would prefer it if you spoke to me." He growls, "I'm not in the mood to play games." "Yes." I whisper. I couldn't help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? "Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me." "I..." I hated the question. "You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It's rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?" His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact."My Wolf abilities were bound," I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn't interested in that part. He leans forward, I could feel him staring at me, "Why would someone do that?" If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. "It was a punishment." I whisper. It wasn't far from the entire truth. There's a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn't tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me "Neah, what are you doing in my office?" He turns to the crimson eyed man. "I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane." Crap, it's him. My brother spins around, hand poised to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. "I wouldn't do that if I were you."Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He is taller than my brother, more muscly too. "Neah," My name rolls off of his tongue, "was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested." What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. "Go and get Beta Kyle." Alpha Trey seethes. "Tell him our guest is here." I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. "Beta Kyle," I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. "Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you." He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. "You're lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't see sunlight for a few days." Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn't speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn't last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. "Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating." I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. "Neah is your sister, correct?" Alpha Dane questions my brother. "She is." Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. "Why do you treat her like trash?" Straight to the point, my brother wouldn't like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn't know what to do. I couldn't move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. "Neah was responsible for our parents' death." Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. "Responsible how?" Alpha Dane's voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. "She served them Wolfsbane." Don't make a sound. Don't make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. "You poisoned your parents?" "I was six." I splutter. "I just made them lemonade." My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. "Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old." "A six year old should know the difference between plants." Alpha Trey snaps "Sounds to me like she was set up." Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of me. "You weren't there, Alpha Dane." My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. "I didn't ask you here to talk about my slave!" Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha's he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha's, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. "You're right and now I have a few things to mull over." "I thought we agreed." My brother exclaims "Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out." The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. "What the heck did you say to him?" My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. "N...nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny." "Did you tell him?" Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. "WELL?" My brother yells when I don't immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. "But I didn't say it was you." I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. "If you have ruined this, you won't see daylight again." He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. "Pleaseโฆ." I beg. "He was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him." My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull... "Alpha Dane, I thought you had left." Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. "I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?" "As I said," my brother holds his ground, "She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves." "You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!" Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. "If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?" Both Alpha Trey and Beta Kyle hold their tongues. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. I see those crimson eyes land on my swollen face. "I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey." Alpha Dane speaks up again. "We have already agreed on terms." "Well, I'm adding one. And if you don't agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don't want that." "I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?" Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. "You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal." Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? "Deal." Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn't take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. "I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow." He reaches a hand out and cups my face, "Ensure you have everything packed." He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. "If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about." He struts out, slamming the door behind him. After Dane leaves, my brother grabs me by the collar. "You think you're going to have a good life if you follow Alpha Dane out of here? Don't be naive!" He continues in a vicious voice. "He's the coldest man in the world, he's killed nine of his mates, I'm waiting to see what happens to you!" | New world publications | 3796 | https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679544 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/13/25, 7:05 PM | 1738567622 | 1749859530 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465847489_1723783638193337_5368992631162817757_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gRxjV2JvtbUQ7kNvgGeaa2G&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYBEFSUQerAI7ajILAX6B81vwyIbgu6IbLJ0n3_McaFlcA&oe=67A631CB | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679617 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567630 | 1745816685 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | VIDEO | Pest Control: Starting at $89 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475138625_467258646447918_6544105228829083556_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bETtgR4z8o4Q7kNvgHCHxdI&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYDmS3ScbuUQtm1nxpFoznzjoKnjzWBDfUo1Cbp6CgT9Wg&oe=67A6290E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi, Iโm Kyle; proud owner of Deal Pest Control! Did you know common pests like rodents, termites, ants, mosquitoes & cockroaches canโฆ โ ๏ธ Carry Life Threatening Diseases! ๐๏ธ Cause Major Property Damage! ๐ฆ Trigger Severe Allergies & Respiratory Issues! ๐ Throw Off The Balance of Your Local Ecosystem! & More! But, with our comprehensive inspections & swift pest control measures ๐, we can stop the problem before it becomes serious! Our team is trained to see the signs the average person canโt ๐. ๐ธ With starting prices as low as $89 ๐ธ, there's no point risking your home, your health and your comfort! ๐ Get in touch & receive your free quote! Just fill out our form, call, or text! ๐Servicing Surprise, Maryvale, Peoria, Deer Valley, Avondale & Surrounding Areas! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679552 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567626 | 1745816686 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465808457_1981239155729423_3918037554539501387_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5Ze9ikXSbEUQ7kNvgHlC-Gv&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYDmxlsDbQe1ZiohCYp2ee7J1TzsU4qmWJid02A9aYOPTw&oe=67A647A0 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679638 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567631 | 1745816686 | 2451 | discover.mollurahairtransplant.com | Learn More | DCO | Free Consultation | {{product.description}} | https://discover.mollurahairtransplant.com/hair-transplant-sm | 1.017344995789E+14 | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474624903_1134723398394185_2288306342626537102_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GxedjybO064Q7kNvgHhFmYO&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYC5K8Nzd3KZyAT5DgaGy89sJF6CEbfiGLRL-kX2FA--Vg&oe=67A6546D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Turn Back Time on Hair Loss! โฐ Reclaim your confidence with a FUE Hair Transplant at Mollura Hair Restoration. Dr. Anthony Mollura has performed more than 7,000 hair restoration procedures over the last 25 years. Book your FREE Hair Consultation Today! | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | 54 | https://www.facebook.com/molluramedical/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679623 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567631 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | VIDEO | Wood Fence Installation: Starting at $749 | http://fb.me/ | 4.4507570869457E+14 | VooltPro Certified Contractors | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/472914639_392657947230977_2416349458830153175_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sqiVZYKn0eMQ7kNvgF_QuDg&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYB3xKsdnAZzKr9VomPsYYDPEfxhb0PYJuXN1iBUq-5t1g&oe=67A62822 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi, I'm Juan, founder of locally owned company Titan Wood Fence Installation! โ Everyone always asks me, "How much does a new wood fence cost?" WellโฆEach project is unique! ๐ After you answer a few simple questions about your needs, we'll provide a FREE, INSTANT quote. ๐ Click 'GET QUOTE' below & fill out the form! ๐ก Deeply rooted in the community, we're passionate about enhancing the security & curb appeal of our homes. That's why we're offering your New Fence for as low as $749! Proudly serving Anderson, Fishers, Muncie, Noblesville, Yorktown & Surrounding Areas! | VooltPro Certified Contractors | 45 | https://www.facebook.com/61567454793871/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679557 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567626 | 1745816686 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465572954_1067244724693655_6969392312662757206_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZJUIQzmCHocQ7kNvgF9YI3T&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYCb-w96VQhCHB9salTXNTwtRTPggpGfsT4Llx0qP_MwPQ&oe=67A63E6F | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679598 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567629 | 1745816685 | 2451 | wwwedb.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | At six years old, I accidentally killed my parents. For the punishment I, an alpha female, became a slave in my own house.. My wolf's abilities were bounded, twiceโa crippling blow that left me vulnerable. As if I were nothing more than property, my brother sold me to a ruthless alpha as part of some clan contract. The rumour I've heard about him that nine fiancee has been killed by him. Then, I discovered that this ruthless alpha, the one who now owned me, was my mate ... | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475281342_1269068634204903_2259571769464022948_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DW-_GuT68tUQ7kNvgHft5l7&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYDGu3C6JjSthtEElbmegLu0zQMX_qrq1fUASCfXvuPD-g&oe=67A655CF | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | "Where is she?" I hear the Beta scream. I groan and rise to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket before heading over. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don't make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times. "Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office." Beta Kyle spits at me. I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If only I could find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. But I didn't need another week locked up with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. "We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Don't you understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!" I don't answer, It's a trap, a ploy to provoke me into saying something that would justify punishment. I keep my eyes lowered, avoiding his gaze. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. He was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn't mess around and he had the largest pack. "He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!" We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He grabs my shoulders, his nails digging into my skin as he turns me around and kicks me into the office. "Useless Wolf." He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean against it, observing the already clean office. It looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don't quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. "Is this the way you greet all Alphas?" His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. "I'm sorry." I whisper, getting to my feet. "I...I thought I was alone." I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. "Come forward." He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey wil kill me. I step around the corner, doing as I'm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. "You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?" I nod, though I couldn't tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. "I would prefer it if you spoke to me." He growls, "I'm not in the mood to play games." "Yes." I whisper. I couldn't help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? "Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me." "I..." I hated the question. "You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It's rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?" His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact."My Wolf abilities were bound," I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn't interested in that part. He leans forward, I could feel him staring at me, "Why would someone do that?" If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. "It was a punishment." I whisper. It wasn't far from the entire truth. There's a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn't tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me "Neah, what are you doing in my office?" He turns to the crimson eyed man. "I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane." Crap, it's him. My brother spins around, hand poised to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. "I wouldn't do that if I were you."Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He is taller than my brother, more muscly too. "Neah," My name rolls off of his tongue, "was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested." What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. "Go and get Beta Kyle." Alpha Trey seethes. "Tell him our guest is here." I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. "Beta Kyle," I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. "Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you." He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. "You're lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't see sunlight for a few days." Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn't speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn't last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. "Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating." I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. "Neah is your sister, correct?" Alpha Dane questions my brother. "She is." Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. "Why do you treat her like trash?" Straight to the point, my brother wouldn't like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn't know what to do. I couldn't move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. "Neah was responsible for our parents' death." Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. "Responsible how?" Alpha Dane's voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. "She served them Wolfsbane." Don't make a sound. Don't make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. "You poisoned your parents?" "I was six." I splutter. "I just made them lemonade." My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. "Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old." "A six year old should know the difference between plants." Alpha Trey snaps "Sounds to me like she was set up." Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of me. "You weren't there, Alpha Dane." My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. "I didn't ask you here to talk about my slave!" Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha's he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha's, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. "You're right and now I have a few things to mull over." "I thought we agreed." My brother exclaims "Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out." The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. "What the heck did you say to him?" My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. "N...nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny." "Did you tell him?" Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. "WELL?" My brother yells when I don't immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. "But I didn't say it was you." I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. "If you have ruined this, you won't see daylight again." He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. "Pleaseโฆ." I beg. "He was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him." My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull... "Alpha Dane, I thought you had left." Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. "I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?" "As I said," my brother holds his ground, "She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves." "You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!" Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. "If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?" Both Alpha Trey and Beta Kyle hold their tongues. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. I see those crimson eyes land on my swollen face. "I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey." Alpha Dane speaks up again. "We have already agreed on terms." "Well, I'm adding one. And if you don't agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don't want that." "I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?" Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. "You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal." Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? "Deal." Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn't take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. "I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow." He reaches a hand out and cups my face, "Ensure you have everything packed." He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. "If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about." He struts out, slamming the door behind him. After Dane leaves, my brother grabs me by the collar. "You think you're going to have a good life if you follow Alpha Dane out of here? Don't be naive!" He continues in a vicious voice. "He's the coldest man in the world, he's killed nine of his mates, I'm waiting to see what happens to you!" | New world publications | 3796 | https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679686 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567636 | 1745816685 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | VIDEO | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=7929461117168105&exdata=167C26038CE94183B3EF0376601F6A4C9BF64D4A66951315 | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475778119_967109368683105_3965979163193934148_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=N1xnbJBGrLsQ7kNvgHeMofU&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYDFtPZp2OXni16SBrb5ayoon5skUxbEK3mr-zXPRTmaHQ&oe=67A6324B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | After being released, her malicious stepsister threatened her with their mother's life and tried to send her to an older man. On her way to "sacrifice" herself, she unexpectedly met a mafia kingpin. She took the initiative to seduce him for a partnership. From then on, she turned the tablesโtearing apart the fake angel, slapping her stepmother, and refusing to be bullied again! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &10& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679707 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567638 | 1745816685 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | VIDEO | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/67179322-fb_contact-enj83_6-0110-c3-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1721275375067958&exdata=303AD0586C0A3DED49610A809EB40ABB6B0D3DF6DEA337F9 | 4.3210510665256E+14 | Fragrant Fiction | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474989051_1177424493728179_2407410839329736663_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_wDgHBCqO4QQ7kNvgHBI5n9&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYDd02cjGKJ2tMt0ShP0NJykT4gnjqWgQzN5RScfWAXaJw&oe=67A62A68 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Rumors claimed she was an uneducated, hot-tempered bumpkin. She sneered and revealed her true identity as a renowned designer, gaming pro, celebrated artist, and business tycoon, leaving everyone stunned! ===== "We're here to escort you home, Miss Morgan." "Your parents have been tirelessly searching for you over the years. Upon discovering your whereabouts, they promptly dispatched us to ensure your return." Fernanda Morgan surveyed the men in crisply tailored suits who stood before her, he appeared to be a butler. "Moreover, the Harper family is keenly anticipating your return. You are to be engaged to Mr. Harper once you return!" "Alright then. Let's go," Fernanda agreed with a slight nod. She collected her already-packed belongings and stepped into the vehicle. The journey from the small town of Zhota to Esaham was a long one, spanning at least two days by car. As dusk enveloped the sky, they pulled into another small town. The butler located a modestly appealing motel and proposed they stay overnight. Fernanda's accommodation was at the far end of the second-floor hallway, Room 201--arguably the best room available. The butler and the rest of their group opted to stay on the lower floor. The night was unusually warm and dry, rendering the room's aging air conditioner useless. Fernanda opened the window to invite a cool breeze, causing the curtains to dance gently in the evening air. Fresh from her shower, she dimmed the lights and crawled into bed for the night. Drifting into a light sleep, she was jolted awake by a disturbance outside. A subsequent noise at the window snapped her to full alert. As she bolted upright, a shadowy figure burst through, launching itself onto her bed. The freezing touch of a bl*de hovered at her neck as a low, threatening voice growled, "Don't you dare move." Immobile, Fernanda's body clenched in fear. The faint, iron tang of bl**d lingered on the man's sleeve--a grim reminder of his dangerousness. This unmistakable hint solidified the fact: this man was no one to mess with. Outside, the commotion intensified. Shortly after, a forceful knock resonated at the door. A coarse voice demanded, "Is anyone there? Open up now!" As the voice still echoed, the kn*fe at Fernanda's neck dug in slightly deeper. The man's voice dripped with malice as he warned, "Get rid of them, or you're as good as dead." His right arm ensnared her waist, his left hand unwavering with the kn*fe at her throat. Through his firm grip and calculated movements, Fernanda realized he was deadly serious. Cornered, she knew she had to play along for the time being. "Sure." With a soft, steady voice, Fernanda reassured him. "It'll all be okay." With no answer from inside, the outsiders used a master key to unlock the door and stormed in. At the sound, the man jerked Fernanda's baggy T-shirt, pulling her down onto his lap and encircling her with his arm, forcing her to straddle him as he shifted position. Right then, the door flung open, and a stark beam of flashlight flooded the room. Fernanda let out a panicked scream, quickly bending over the man to obscure him from view. "Sweetheart, what the hell is this place? How could anyone have the audacity to barge in like that?" Acting as though she was terrified, Fernanda held onto the man, her grip firm and desperate. Her voice, usually sweet and enticing, now carried an edge of annoyance mingled with a breathless charm that was utterly captivating. Suddenly, Fernanda felt the man beneath her tense up. Seconds later, he encircled her with his arm and expertly flipped over, drawing the blanket over both their bodies. As the blanket slid, its soft whispers merged with the steady rhythm of their breaths, painting a scene of understated sensuality. Faces flushed with embarrassment, the group at the door stood stiffly, unprepared for the private display before them. Nonetheless, the couple inside the room showed no signs of halting their intimate exchange. The motel's security guard chuckled uncomfortably, "Looks like they're pretty busy... Maybe we ought to leave, huh?" One of the men brushed past the guard and entered the room with a purposeful stride. Fernanda's heartbeat skyrocketed as she heard the footsteps drawing near. Could they actually be contemplating unveiling them? A chilling bl*de pressed against her side, its pointed tip grazing her skin, sending a shiver through her already tense body. The footsteps halted next to the bed, and with a surge of courage, Fernanda leaned in closer to the man beneath her. Pulled back gently, the blanket gave way to the flashlight's piercing light, exposing a glimpse of her delicate, b*re back. In the softness of the bed, their movements continued unabated. Fernanda's lips met his in a fervent kiss, her hair cascading down to obscure his face, while his hand gently caressed her side. The subdued m**ns that slipped from their lips lent the scene an air of genuine intimacy. Abruptly, a voice erupted from beyond the room, piercing the tranquility. "Boss! Something's going down out on the street!" Instantly, the man at the bedside sprang to his feet and vanished through the door. With the door slamming behind him, Fernanda disentangled herself and slipped from the bed. Moonlight seeped through a crack in the curtains, casting delicate shadows across the room. The man watched as Fernanda's slender figure was silhouetted against the pale light. Memories of earlier washed over him; his fingers traced her skin, so smooth and velvety. She had gripped his arms, her delicate skin pressing softly against his. Her hair had brushed his face, each strand silky, carrying a subtle fragrance. Her voice had been a soft melody, soothing to his ears. This woman was serene and astute. Amid the intrusion, rather than succumb to panic, she had pressed her lips to his, a kiss so convincing it had deceived the pursuers. Her technique was rather clumsy, only pressing her lips against his without any other movement--evidently her first kiss. Breaking the ensuing quiet, the man's voice softened from its usual sternness to a rasp tinged with all**re. "Was that your first kiss?" Chapter 2 That's Gross With deliberate movements, Fernanda pulled out a piece of clothing from her suitcase, her voice sharp and cool. "This is none of your concern. I think it's time for you to leave." All she desired at that moment was to hasten the man's departure. Barely a moment before, when he had embraced her, his fingers had brushed against her back, lingering just a moment too long. The calluses on his fingertips were coarse, betraying more wear than most. His adeptness with a knife and his swift reflexes hinted at a background that was far from ordinary. Cutting off the thought immediately, Fernanda dismissed any curiosity about his background. From below, the blare of a car horn shattered the silence. The man stood up smoothly. During their earlier intimacy, he had loosened his shirt, though his trousers remained crisply in place. He buttoned his shirt as he approached the window and casually tossed something to Fernanda. "My apologies for any discomfort caused earlier. Consider this your compensation," he said with a nod. With the graceful precision of a panther, he sprang out of the window. Fernanda approached the window, peering out into the night where, under the faint illumination of the streetlights, she observed him scale the wall effortlessly. He navigated the ledges until he merged with the shadows. She stooped to retrieve the object he had left--a sleek black card. The night's disruptions had been met with suitable compensation--a fair recompense. Fernanda pocketed the card and drew the curtains closed. The following morning, the butler approached Fernanda with a look of concern etched across his face. "Miss Morgan, I hope you managed to rest last night. There was an inspection for a burglary, which stirred quite the disturbance." She shrugged casually and muttered, "It was fine." As they drove, the butler stole glances at Fernanda through the rearview mirror. Reclined in her seat, she gazed out the window, her elegant profile cast in contemplative silence. He mused quietly to himself that she did not embody the typical country-raised youth. Her calm sophistication and graceful demeanor set her apart, enhancing her natural charm and making her an effortlessly endearing presence. After two days of travel, Fernanda stepped into the bustling streets of Esaham. The city was a teeming metropolis, alive with vibrant streets and a relentless stream of traffic. Shortly after 8 a.m., a stretch Lincoln limousine glided into the upscale estate of Dawn Villas, coming to a halt in front of a majestic three-story white villa. Stepping gracefully from the limousine, Fernanda let her eyes wander over the grandeur of the building before her. The villa, both opulent and imposing, was a testament to vast wealth. Her lips curled into a faint, almost mocking smile as she gave it a scrutinizing glance. This was her father Robert Morgan's residence. From humble beginnings, he had climbed to wealth and status with her late mother's support. After amassing his fortune, Robert had coldly cast aside her mother, choosing to revel in a relationship with his mistress. That woman--Michelle Morgan--had contributed nothing to his success, yet she now sat smugly in the seat Fernanda's mother had rightfully earned. She basked in the luxuries and respect that were never hers to claim. Worse still, Michelle had dared to flaunt her victory, parading her stolen life before Fernanda's grieving mother, a cruelty that had ultimately led to Fernanda's mother's untimely death. To the world, Michelle was seen as Robert's second wife, a symbol of grace and charm. Michelle even had the audacity to claim she was Fernanda's real mother. But Fernanda knew better. Behind the polished veneer lay the truth, raw and unforgiving. Fernanda's dark eyes momentarily hardened, a flicker of steely determination glinting within them. Her mother was no longer here to seek justice, but Fernanda vowed she would deliver it on her behalf. Just then, the villa's grand door swung open, revealing the pair responsible for the upheaval in her life. Robert stood tall and pristine, the sharp lines of his tailored suit accentuating his stature. His gold-rimmed glasses reflected the warm light, adding an air of calculated sophistication. At his side was Michelle, the very picture of elegance. Her fitted dress clung perfectly to her poised figure, exuding refinement and composure. "Fernanda, you've come back." Robert greeted warmly, a smile playing on his lips as he waved her over. "Come in." Fernanda's eyes darted downward, concealing the storm of emotions swirling within her. With a tentative step, she moved closer. Robert, with an arm encircling Michelle's waist, introduced her with a gesture. "Fernanda, this is your mother." With a casual wave toward the living room, he remarked, "And that's Erika, your sister." On the couch, Erika Morgan was engaged with the television, only looking up when Fernanda approached. Her eyes narrowed judgmentally at Fernanda's plain dress, her face contorting into a sneer. With an exaggerated eye-roll and a sarcastic tone, Erika muttered, "That country bumpkin? Dad, she's no sister of mine." Michelle approached Fernanda with a warm smile, linking her arm with Fernanda's. "Oh, Fernanda, Erika's just teasing. Pay her no mind. I've prepared breakfast for you. You must be starving. Let's have something to eat." Silently, Fernanda slipped her arm free and strode with determined steps into the dining room. Michelle paused, her smile faltering as a shadow of confusion crossed her face. She turned to Robert, her voice tinged with concern. "Robert, what's gotten into her?" He sighed, his voice a blend of empathy and resignation, "Fernanda was raised in the countryside. She's a bit unrefined, that's all. It's nothing against you, Michelle." Michelle nodded slowly, a soft smile reclaiming her features. "No worries," she murmured, her resolve firming. "I'll guide her as she settles in, teach her the essentials of elegance, and shape her into a poised young woman." Robert gave a supportive pat on her back, his expression one of appreciative assurance. In the dining room, Michelle seated herself next to Fernanda. "Fernanda, you must try this beef," she insisted, placing a tender slice onto Fernanda's plate. "It's Erika's favorite." Fernanda responded by promptly lifting the beef from her plate and dropping it into an empty plate with a clear look of disgust. "That's gross," she stated flatly, her voice void of any warmth. Chapter 3 How Could You Lie? The moment those words left Fernanda's lips, the entire table came to a standstill, their expressions a mix of shock and disbelief. Erika, her patience fraying, brought her hand down hard on the table and demanded, "Country bumpkin, what are you even saying? My mom was kind enough to offer you this beef, and you have the nerve to be rude about it?" Fernanda met their astonished looks with a mask of feigned innocence. "I was clearly referring to the beef," she said with a deliberate pause. "It's raw and quite frankly, it looks unappetizing. What else could I possibly mean?" "You..." Erika's retort faltered, caught in her throat. Admitting that she thought Fernanda was insulting Michelle was out of the question. With a slow, calculated blink, Fernanda went on, "Unless, perhaps, you think there's something even more gross on this table than the raw beef?" At this, Erika's face registered sheer astonishment, and for a split second, her voice seemed to have deserted her entirely. Not a single word could she muster. It was Michelle who broke the awkward silence, interjecting smoothly, "Fernanda, the dish you're referring to is called beef tartare. It's a renowned delicacy made from top-notch beef and a pasteurized egg, typically found in high-end dining establishments. Perhaps it's something you've not had the opportunity to try before." Her voice subtly implied that Fernanda's simpler past might not have included such refined culinary experiences. Fernanda allowed a mischievous smirk to play at the corners of her lips and replied, "Our ancestors honed an array of sophisticated recipes and techniques. They certainly didn't refine these culinary arts for us to regress to consuming raw meat as if we were lost in the wild." Michelle's expression briefly betrayed a touch of discomfort, yet she managed to sustain a polite smile, nodding her agreement somewhat rigidly. "You bring up a valid point, I'll give you that." "I agree. I'm not fond of beef tartare either," Robert added with a nod, his gaze settling on Fernanda with evident pride. "I've always preferred classic tastes myself. It seems Fernanda has inherited that from me." Fernanda offered a subdued smile, delicately wiping her fork on a napkin after attempting the beef tartare, then resumed eating with a composed demeanor, seemingly unaffected by Erika's glaring resentment. Michelle suddenly ventured a soft query. "Fernanda, which university are you attending these days? Erika is at Luminary University, one of the top schools in the country. What about you?" At this, Erika's face morphed into a self-satisfied grin. Robert's tone grew cooler as he intervened on Fernanda's behalf. "I've spoken to a few contacts back in Fernanda's hometown. Currently, she isn't enrolled in any university." Michelle's eyes went wide, her voice cutting through the silence as she blurted, "What did you just say? Fernanda isn't attending any university? That simply cannot be! What will happen when the Harpers find out? Mrs. Harper had just mentioned a few days ago that they were planning a grand welcome party for Fernanda upon her return. If they learn she's not enrolled anywhere, it could be disastrous." Robert intervened, his tone laced with irritation, cutting through Michelle's rising panic. "Enough. I will take care of Fernanda's education myself." From the corner, Erika couldn't suppress a snicker. Imagining Fernanda managing to sneak into some low-ranked school through connections was downright amusing to her. The Harper family, celebrating the arrival of what Erika considered a rural nobody, was an absurd thought. Fernanda's crude and graceless demeanor would certainly earn their disapproval the moment they saw her. Erika found Bobby Harper quite charming, but his family's insistence on honoring their promise to engage him to Fernanda and pushing Robert to reintegrate Fernanda into their circles seemed ridiculously foolish to her. She was convinced that the Harper family would never develop an affinity for someone as lacking in education as Fernanda. The mood around the table grew tense as they discussed Fernanda's academic prospects. Amidst the awkward silence, Fernanda herself reached for a napkin, dabbing at her lips gracefully. "I have already registered to take the entrance exam for Esaham University," she announced, her voice steady and clear. "Assuming all goes well, I plan to attend there in the near future." Erika was caught off guard and, for a moment, was speechless before she burst into unrestrained laughter. The idea that Esaham University, the most prestigious in the nation where seats were as coveted as gold, would allow Fernanda to take the entrance exam was laughable. Clearly, this was a lie. Robert's demeanor hardened, his eyes narrowing with a frosty glare. He furrowed his brow in disapproval and said sternly, "Fernanda, how could you lie about being granted the opportunity to take the entrance exam for Esaham University? Was lying the only lesson you picked up in your little hometown?" "Honey, calm down," Michelle interjected quickly. "Fernanda was only trying to impress you." Turning to Fernanda with a soft, maternal expression, Michelle remarked in a soothing tone, "There's no shame in skipping college, Fernanda. You don't have to pretend or feel lesser because of it. We're family here, and we don't judge you on such matters." Her words, though gentle, were saturated with disbelief, assuming Fernanda was fabricating her story. Fernanda, without a word of defense, simply pulled out her smartphone. After a few taps, she pushed it across the table towards the center. Everyone leaned in to see the display. Erika's laughter stopped abruptly as she stared at the screen. Displayed prominently was Fernanda's Esaham University entrance exam admission ticket, complete with her photo and name in bold. Snatching the phone, Erika's eyes grew wide as she inspected it repeatedly. Her anger boiling over, she tossed it away and exclaimed, "This can't be real! You edited this, didn't you?" Chapter 4 This Girl Is Something Else "This isn't a photo--it's an online document," Fernanda stated in an even tone, her voice steady and clear. "Notice the Esaham University web address at the top?" Erika was at a loss for words. Her complexion lost its color as silence enveloped her. Entry to Esaham University was notoriously difficult, achievable only through the rigorous standardized exam or by excelling in the university's specialized admission test. This test was reserved for the truly outstanding, drawing candidates from diverse disciplines and making the chance to compete a rare gem. How did Fernanda manage to secure a spot to attend the admission test? Suddenly, Robert's hand was on Fernanda's phone, his eyes scanning the text again and again. Any annoyance he felt quickly dissipated, replaced by bubbling excitement. A rich, joyful laughter escaped him as he declared, "Brilliant, Fernanda! Absolutely brilliant!" The way Fernanda managed to secure such an incredible opportunity didn't concern him. What mattered most to him was the overwhelming pride he felt, knowing she had this chance to take the exam. With a stiff smile and a voice laced with tension, Michelle replied, "Yes, well done." "What's so great about that?" Erika scoffed, her voice dripping with disdain. "It's not as if she's actually going to pass." "But it's certainly better than not being qualified to try at all, right?" Fernanda retorted smoothly. Color rushed to Erika's cheeks, her anger palpable. She slammed her fork down, the clatter echoing sharply. "I've had enough!" she declared vehemently, before storming off in a huff. After dinner, Robert and Michelle walked Fernanda to her cozy and thoughtfully prepared room. The room was airy and uncluttered, resonating with Fernanda's love for understated elegance. "Across the hall is your sister's room," Michelle explained, her voice carrying a warm undertone. "Next to yours is your elder brother's. He's often caught up with work commitments and rarely at home. Your younger brother, who's currently at a summer camp overseas, has his room beside Erika's." She continued, a smile softening her features, "If there's anything you need to make your stay more comfortable, please don't hesitate to tell me, dear." Robert watched Michelle with a look of quiet approval. "Thank you," Fernanda murmured, her eyes downcast as she spoke. "I think I'll take a shower now." At that, Robert and Michelle excused themselves, leaving Fernanda to her privacy. As she stepped under the spray, cool water washed over her, drenching her face and lending a luminous sheen to her eyes. They sparkled against the backdrop of water droplets on her lashes, enhancing the serene yet frosty allure of her features. Once out of the shower, Fernanda blow-dried her hair until it was just damp. As Fernanda from the bathroom, she dug through the suitcase and found a photo of Hiram Hammond. The photo was a solemn memorial portrait of Hiram. Though not bound to her by blood, he had nurtured her with unwavering care and affection. To Fernanda, he was her entire world, her only family. That cherished photo, a tribute to his memory, was something she couldn't afford to lose. Gazing at the kind, gentle face in the photo, Fernanda was enveloped by a surge of affection. With gentle hands, she cleaned the photograph and lovingly placed it on a side table in the room. Within the next two days, the villa had welcomed two additional guests--Michelle's nephew and niece. The man exhibited an unseemly l**tfulness, with his gaze persistently fixed on Fernanda whenever he could manage. Meanwhile, the woman had aligned herself with Erika, openly manifesting her contempt and animosity toward Fernanda through both overt and subtle jabs. Disenchanted by their presence, Fernanda chose to distance herself from the villa's stifling atmosphere. As the sun dawdled on the brink of the horizon, the evening air, warm yet prickled with tension, brushed against her. Seeking a brief escape, Fernanda wandered to a convenience store and picked up a can of cold beer. Positioned against a lamppost, she deftly popped open the can single-handedly. The refreshing chill of the beer soothed her throat as she drank. A slight tilt of her head caused the collar of her shirt to shift delicately, exposing the elegant contour of her collarbone. With an air of sophistication, her neck arched gracefully, like someone relishing a glass of champagne in an exclusive bar. Having savored the last drop, Fernanda tossed the can with a casual flick of her wrist, watching it arc smoothly into the bin with a satisfying clink. Not far off, someone hidden in the dim interior of a black sedan watched intently. Bobby, palpably impressed, turned to his companion and remarked with a mix of awe and admiration, "Cristian, this girl is something else!" Chapter 5 Attacked Cristian Reed, who was sprawling in the backseat, remained silent, his eyes firmly shut. "Wow, the girl is stunning! Check out those legs--so beautiful and flawless! Did you see her toss that can, Cristian? She's got skills that could rival yours!" Bobby's incessant babble finally pierced Cristian's reserve. With a sigh, Cristian's eyes fluttered open. Just then, the headlights from an approaching vehicle swept across his face, accentuating its angular contours and highlighting a small mole beneath his eye. Drawing out his words, Cristian replied with a lazy drawl, his voice a deep, soothing rumble laced with a trace of exhaustion, "Aren't you getting engaged soon? Isn't the eldest Morgan daughter meant to be yours?" Bobby visibly flinched at the mention, his expression contorting into one of clear distaste. "She's nothing but a stray who got lost as a child and grew up in some nowhere place. Who's to say she isn't just a goddamn ugly rural bumpkin? My friends probably see me as some unlucky fool. Cristian, you are my cousin. You should not make fun of me like they do!" Cristian merely crossed his arms, extending his long legs and settling back more comfortably without a word. The silence seemed to deepen Bobby's frustration, as if sealing his fate. Yet, as Bobby's eyes landed on the girl's striking figure under the streetlight again, his mood shifted, and a flicker of curiosity lit up his face. With a playful grin, Bobby lowered the window and leaned slightly out, his tone dripping with charm. "Hey there, gorgeous. Can I offer you a ride?" "No, thank you." Her words were crisp and frosty, cutting through the evening like a cold breeze, leaving a chill that touched both men. In the backseat, Cristian's body tensed. His eyes snapped open, his head whipping around toward the sound of the voice. That voice? It unmistakably belonged to the girl he had met in that dimly lit motel. Cristian acted with such swiftness that he seemed to blur the lines between thought and action as he swung the car door open and emerged. Fernanda mistook his approach for a mere flirtatious gesture. Without giving him another thought, she turned away and continued on her path. She had only taken a few steps when she felt a strong, unyielding grip halt her progress. She spun around, coming face-to-face with the man who had stopped her. Towering and strikingly handsome, he possessed an aura of undeniable presence. One hand was nonchalantly placed in his pocket, while the other securely grasped her arm. His piercing gaze locked with hers. "Well, if it isn't you!" Cristian muttered slowly, a hint of recognition in his voice. "Seems like we keep meeting, huh?" Fernanda's eyes flickered with surprise as she realized who he was--the man from that unforgettable night. Given that he was a dangerous fugitive, she wanted to keep her distance from him. Swiftly regaining her composure, she adopted an aloof demeanor. "I'm sorry, sir. You must be mistaken," she replied evenly. "No," Cristian responded, his voice low and steady, a slight smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "A debt of gratitude is something I never forget." His remark revealed a depth to his character. For Cristian, repaying a good deed wasn't just a courtesy--it was a principle he lived by. Meanwhile, Bobby had exited the car and now stood a short distance away, his expression one of utter bewilderment. "What's going on?" he inquired. Cristian brushed off Bobby's presence, focusing instead on holding the car door open for Fernanda with a subtle nod. Fernanda stayed rooted in place, her gaze sharp with caution. "What do you mean by that?" "I'd like to take you to dinner. Would you join me?" Cristian urged with a warm, inviting smile. It came across as a question, but Fernanda could discern from the inflection in his voice that he wasn't genuinely offering her an option to decline. Her familiarity with his nature left no room for misunderstanding. Refusing him might only provoke him to force her into the car himself. With a sigh, she gave a subdued nod. "Fine." A faint smile flickered across Cristian's face as he graciously gestured for her to enter, then smoothly took his place behind the wheel. Bobby blinked in shock, his mouth hanging open. "You've got to be kidding me, Cristian. This is incredible!" Cristian had effortlessly ensnared the alluring girl with a mere handful of words, an accomplishment Bobby found profoundly impressive. As Bobby tried the back door, he found it unexpectedly locked. "Cristian?" he inquired, a hint of confusion in his tone. Cristian commanded firmly, "Leave." Frozen in place in the brisk evening air, Bobby watched the sleek black car vanish into the shadows of the night. He was the first to spot the girl! Why had they left him behind? Inside the car, Cristian shattered the lingering silence by firing off a torrent of questions. "Are you from Esaham or Zhota?" "Zhota," she answered softly. "And your name?" "Letty Molina." "How old are you?" "Twenty-five," Fernanda replied, her voice barely above a whisper. Cristian stole a sideways glance at her, his voice laced with skepticism. "Doesn't seem like it." "Reality seldom mirrors our expectations," Fernanda replied, her tone unwavering. "Take your appearance, for instance. In that impeccable suit, you're the perfect picture of a business tycoon. Yet, you're the same fugitive I stumbled upon the other night." Cristian couldn't help but laugh, a hint of amusement in his voice. "You do have a point." Fernanda was finally no longer feigning ignorance about their past encounter. Cristian was relieved. Had she chosen to continue her charade, he had his own methods to have her drop the act. As usual, Esaham's traffic was a snarled mess. Cristian veered onto a less congested side street, hoping to evade the endless sea of cars. Breaking the silence, he suggested, "I know a cozy spot run by a Zhota native--serves excellent food. Let's head there." "Sure," she replied, her tone calm but firm. Just as Fernanda's reply hung in the air, a jarring crash echoed from behind, jolting the car forward. She was thrust back, the seatbelt gnawing into her shoulder. Cristian's gaze darted to the rearview mirror. Suddenly, a van cut sharply across their path, blocking them. On either side, vehicles converged, spilling out men brandishing grim tools, their silhouettes ominous in the dim streetlight. Without hesitation, Cristian reached into the center console, retrieving a kn*fe. "Whatever happens, keep yourself inside the car. Don't even think about stepping out," he instructed firmly, pressing her back into the seat. With a resolute nod, he went on, "I'll take care of them, and afterward, dinner's on me." Cristian wrapped up his conversation, offering Fernanda a fleeting smile that appeared untouched by the surrounding tension. Fernanda folded her arms and settled deeper into her seat, her face a mask of tranquility as she observed Cristian approach the group of armed adversaries. The scene was stark--one man facing off against a throng armed to the teeth. The odds were clearly not in his favor. Yet, as Cristian lifted his foot and dispatched two of the men to the ground with a single, silent kick, Fernanda took note of his precision and power. His technique spoke of extensive training and raw capability. The gang, incited by Cristian's defiance, rushed at him collectively. Sticks sliced through the air, each strike landing with a dense thud that echoed menace. Cristian, however, danced through the tumult with a grace that seemed almost serene. Despite their advantage in numbers, his assailants found themselves floundering to overpower him. One attacker received a blunt punch straight to the face, staggering backward and eventually collapsing against the hood of Cristian's car. As he dabbed at the bl**d dripping from his nose, the man snarled in rage. Catching sight of Fernanda inside the vehicle, a sinister idea sparked within him... ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fragrant Fiction | 55 | https://www.facebook.com/61565957015132/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679564 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567627 | 1745816686 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465701561_1260669235131672_4796270762298070218_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GMTPj6qjxTcQ7kNvgGojJND&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYCwKv6JNFux_9I0EsKjA59S_KedNWrGnfNLLBOr9owKrQ&oe=67A64A5B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679772 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567646 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Free Estimate | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474618559_8932847616763071_3146318129903851348_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xg3j87vEkGEQ7kNvgGTrvU-&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYDFoQqEufb_9ZQsgv-Nc9a8RsF9h2tHOYllpnut2yBNeg&oe=67A62E55 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679643 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567632 | 1745816686 | 2451 | cdnjkfiw.com | Learn more | IMAGE | ๐Mga Anak ng Bilyonaryo๐ | https://www.cdnjkfiw.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=17755&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 3.8701676448549E+14 | Philip Spicy Reading | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475079531_590717280389628_3559109621610462112_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G6kq05nuRecQ7kNvgHDpuhX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYBlE0nq7KfyoA9tdilLZV1uCWzamveq9SUWMyhRRocwnw&oe=67A643C1 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Madiing tinali ni Lorelei ang sintas ng luma niyang sapatos. Kalahating oras na lang ay magsisimula na ang klase niya ngunit hinihintay niya pa ang perang ibibigay ng kanyang Tita Agnes. Pang-huling taon na niya sa kolehiyo sa kursong business management. Gusto niya ay siya na ang mag-manage sa maliit na restaurant na iniwan ng yumao niyang ina na hawak ng Tita niya. Nagsalubong ang mga kilay niya at napasandal sa lumang sofa matapos marinig ang halinghing ng Tita niya mula sa kwarto. Sigurado siyang naroon na naman ang kinakasama nitong lalaki na si Richard. "Idiin mo, Richard!" dinig pa niyang sigaw ng Tita niya. Naiiling siyang pumikit. Maya-maya pa matatapos ang mga ito kaya naman tumayo na siya at kumatok sa pinto ng kwarto. "Tita, aalis na po ako." "Oh! Ode umalis kaโRichard!" muling hiyaw pa nito. "Iyong pera ko po," paalala niya pa rito ngunit daing at halinghing ang sagot nito. Paulit-ulit niyang kinatok ang pinto. Ang huling bigay nito ay limangdaan na pinagkasya niya ng isang linggo. Ayaw naman niyang basagin ang alkansyang baboy niya na mamiso lang ang laman. Nabitin sa ere ang pagkatok niya noong bumukas ang pinto. Niluwa no'n si Richard na pawisin, tanging basketball short ang suot, may hawak din itong libo-libong pera sa kamay. Namumutok ang mga braso nito at halos masakop ang pinto sa laki ng katawan. Mukha pa itong aburido noong tumingin sa kanya kaya napaatras siya. "Istorbo," parinig pa nito bago siya lagpasan. Napamaang siya at agad na pumasok sa kwarto. Huli niya pang nagsusuot pa lang ng t-shirt ang Tita niya. "Pera lang ang habol sa'yo ni Richard, Tita. Hiwalayan mo na iyon. Ang laki ng katawan no'n at kaya no'n ang magtrabahoโ" "Huwag kang makialam sa desisyon ko at hindi naman kita anak. Ikaw ang lumayas kung gusto mo. Bukas makalawa ay dito na titira si Richard. Mas maganda siguro kung humanap ka na ng ibang matitirahan at baka maging kaagaw pa kita sa kanya. Malaki ka na, kaya mo na ang sarili mo," pinal nitong sambit bago nagsuot ng underwear. Nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata niya, "Ginagatasan ka lang ng pera ni Richard, Titaโ" "Oh ayan, dalawang libo para matikom iyang bibig mo. Huling baon mo na iyan. Gagamitin ni Richard ang pera at magtatayo siya ng talyer." Mas lalo siyang nanlumo, "Hindi po pwede iyon. Pera ni Mama ang mga iyan. Kita sa restaurant niya, Tita. Huwag naman po kayong magpabilog kay Richard!" hindi niya mapigilang ilakas ang boses niya. Napalunok pa siya at natakot noong tumayo ito at lumapit sa kanya. Matalim na ang tingin nito. "Aba! Ano'ng pera ng Mama mo? Ilagay mo sa kokote mong matagal ng patay ang Mama mo at akin na ang restaurant na iyon. Pinag-aral at pinakain na kita. Nasa tamang edad ka na at kaya mo ng magtrabaho." Ilang beses pa nitong tinulak-tulak ang noo niya. "Hala sige, layas!" galit pa nitong sigaw bago siya itulak palabas ng pinto. Pinigil niya ang mga luha. Bandang huli ay hindi niya nakuha ang dalawang libong bigay nito. Nanghiram pa tuloy siya ng pera kay Nica. "Paano ang OJT mo? Titigil ka kailan huling taon na, Lei?" Nasapo niya ang noo at napasubsob sa mesa. Simula noong maging boyfriend ng Tita niya si Richard ay naging ganoon na ang Tita niya. "Ewan ko. Hindi ko na alam, Nica." Bumikig ang lalamunan niya sa badyang pag-iyak. Ni hindi niya pinansin ang grupong lumapit sa kanila. "Si Alicia," bulong pa sa kanya ni Nica. Si Alicia ang pinakasikat sa university nila. Mayaman, makinis, at madaming kakilala. Napasilip pa siya rito. Malaki ang ngiti nito, litaw ang naka-braces na ngipin. Ni hindi gumagalaw ang kulot na buhok na kulay blonde. Napaayos siya ng upo noong maglapag ito ng papel. "We're recruiting members for our sorority. You might want to join. Tonight is the initiation," magiliw nitong saad. Nangunot ang noo niya. Alam niyang hindi magandang sumali sa sorority ngunit noong mabasa niya ang mga benefits sa papel ay napalunok siya. "Free education and free allowance. Mayayaman lahat ng kasali at mga iilang negosyante. Nagpaparami lang kami ng miyembro. No fees, all free. Don't worry about the initiation, hindi naman iyon masakit. I would love to see both of you tonight." Kumindat pa ito bago umalis kasama ang dalawa pang alagad nito. "Maganda ang benefits nila, Lei. Solve ang problema mo kapag sumali tayo." Dumukwang ito at nilapit ang tainga sa kanya, "Tsaka alam mo ba, balita ko may kasapi silang Fraternity na puro gwapo," dagdag na bulong nito bago humagikhik. Wala siyang pakialam sa mga gwapo. Ang kagustuhan niyang makatapos ng kolehiyo ang nagtulak sa kanyang sumali. Makailang beses niya pang sinuklay ang malambot, tuwid, at maitim na hanggang balikat niyang buhok. Ginamit niya rin ang lipbalm upang malambot tingnan ang mga labi niya. Kaunting polbo lang ay sinuot na niya ang puting lumang bestida niyang abot hanggang tuhod at sandalyas na naging dirty white na. Kabado pa siya noong makarating sa hideout ng mga ito. Nasa pila na rin si Nica na agad kumaway sa kanya. Mabilis siyang lumapit. "Piliin raw natin iyong sarap sabi ni Alicia. Lahat kasi ng pumili ng hirap ay dinadala sa kabila at nakakatanggap ng hampas at palo," bulong nito. "Huh? Akala ko ba hindi masakit ang initiation nila?" "Hindi nga kapag sarap ang pinili mo. Basta, doon tayo sa turo ni Alicia. Ayokong magkapeklat, Lei." Napalunok siya at hindi mawari ang kaba sa dibdib niya. Makailang beses niya pang pinisil ang mga kamay. "Nica Fernandez!" sigaw ng lalaking tingin niya ay bouncer. Nagtaas ng kamay ang kaibigan niya bago humarap sa kanya. "Tandaan mo ang pipiliin mo, Lei. Iyon ang pipiliin ko. Magkita na lang tayo ulit bukas. Para sa pangarap, Lei!" pagpapasigla pa nito ngunit hindi niya masuklian ng ngiti. Siya na ang kasunod pagkatapos nito ngunit hindi na siya mapakali. May tatlo pang babae sa likod niya at dinig niyang pipiliin din ng mga ito ang pinapapili sa kanya ni Nica. "Lorelei Carpio!" Napaigtad siya sa malakas na sigaw ng bouncer. Muntik pa siyang madapa sa pagkataranta para lang makalapit. Tumuwid siya ng tayo. Pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin. Nangunot ang noo nito ngunit hindi nagkomento. Baka iniisip nitong bata siya sa height niyang 5'5 at balingkinitang katawan. "Sarap o hirap, Miss?" hindi nakangiting tanong nito. Napalunok siya at naumid yata ang dila pero kailangan niyang sumagot. Malaking benepisyo ang makukuha niya kapag natanggap siya sa sorority ni Alicia. "S-arap po," pikit-matang sagot niya. Inangat nito ang palad at agad na lumapit ang isa pang bouncer. "Nandiyan na ba si Phoenix?" tanong nito sa tinawag. "Kadarating lang pero nasa kwarto na." "Good. Ibigay mo 'yan sa kanya at ipaalala mong birhen 'yan," utos pa nito sa lalaki. Nangunot ang noo niya ngunit napapikit noong basta na lang siya lagyan ng blindfold sa mga mata. "B-akit po may blindfold?" kabadong tanong niya. "Hindi mo pwedeng makita ang makakasama mo. Bawal mong silipin o tanungin ang pangalan niya. Kapag ginawa mo iyon, madi-disqualify ka at hindi ka tatanggapin sa grupo," paalala pa ng bouncer na lumapit. Tinatak niya sa isip ang mga sinabi nito. Napasunod siya noong hilahin siya nito sa kung saan. Narinig niya rin ang tunog ng doorknob. Marahan pa siya nitong tinulak sa loob. Sumalubong sa kanya ang mabangong amoy ng lemon. Hindi niya mawari kung air freshener iyon o pabango. "New recruit?" tanong ng mababa at tila namamaos na boses. Nanindig pa ang mga balahibo niya sa bahagyang lamig sa boses nito. "Birhen 'yan. Ingatan mo." Nahigit niya ang hininga at kinabahan noong bitiwan na siya ng lalaki. Ramdam niya bigla ang tensyon sa paligid, maging ang mariing titig sa kanya. "I'm not gonna educate you. I hope you know why you are here and why you came here... willingly," seryosong sambit pa nito gamit ang namamaos nitong boses. Mabilis siyang tumango. Ang sabi sa kanya ay mabilis lang ang initiation kaya baka tanong nga lang iyon. "Uhm, I w-ant to finish my studies; that's why I came here," kabadong sagot niya ngunit malutong pagmumura ang narinig niya mula dito. Kasunod ay ang pagbukas ng pinto, "Inosente itong ni-recruit niyo! Get her outta here!" biglang sigaw nito sa labas. "You can't back out, Phoenix. Alam mo ang mangyayari sa kanya kapag pinaalis mo siya ngayon," madiing sagot ng kung sino. Marahas na buntong hininga ang narinig niya at malakas ding sinara ang pinto. Nagtaasan muli ang mga balahibo niya sa gulat noong humawak ang may kagaspangan nitong palad sa braso niya. "I hope you won't regret coming here," mabigat nitong bulong. Nanlamig siya noong umikot ang malaking braso nito sa bewang niya. Sa tantiya niya ay malaki din ang katawan nito lalo na noong lumapat ang balikat niya sa malapad nitong dibdib. Napaatras pa siya noong maramdaman ang daliri nitong binababa ang strap ng kanyang bestida. "A-nong gagawin mo?" Humakbang ito na kinaatras niya. Mahina siyang napasigaw sa pagbagsak niya sa kama. Gulat pa siya sa malaking katawan na biglang umibabaw sa kanya. Kumalabog ng husto ang puso nita. Sakop na sakop ng malaking katawan nito ang katawan niya. "S-andali!" Sinubukan niyang pigilan ang dibdib nito kahit hindi niya nakikita ngunit hinuli nito ang mga kamay niya at parehong pininid sa kama gamit ang isang palad nito. Bumigat ang paghinga niya lalo na noong sumiksik sa looban ng bestida niya ang malaking palad nito. "You should not have come here, Miss. Now you left me no choice but to take you," mabigat na bulong nito bago lumapat ang mga basang labi sa kanyang leeg. Lalo siyang nanlamig matapos matanto ang nangyayari. Hindi siya nakakilos. Ang naglalakabay nitong mainit na palad at ang malaking katawan nito sa itaas niya ay sapat na upang mangilid ang mga luha niya. "H-uwag po," nanginig pa ang boses niya. Marahas na bumuntong hininga ang lalaki, "You chose this. I tried my best to help you. The least thing I can do... is to be gentle," tila nahihirapang bulong nito. Napalunok siya kahit pa unti-unti nitong naalis ang mga saplot niya. Niyakap siya ng lamig ng aircon ngunit natakpan sa init ng malaking katawan nitong nasa itaas niya. Ang kabog ng dibdib niya ay walang kasing lakas sa pinaghalong kaba at kung ano man ang pinaparamdam nito sa kanya lalo noong dumausdos ito pababa... sa pagitan ng mga hita niya. Nanginig ang mga hita niya noong maramdaman ang mainit nitong paghinga't bibig nitong dumampi doon. Pinagpawisan siya nang malagkit kasabay ng kaba. Tanging impit na ungol at daing ang naibulalas niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang bibig nito doon. Napapabalikwas ang bewang niya ngunit hindi ito masipa. Para siyang na-estatwa noong magtagal ito doon hanggang sa mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa mga labi niya. Hinihingal pa siya sa paggapang nito muli sa itaas niya, pinaghiwalay ang mga hita niya, at pinwesto ang malaking katawan doon. Hindi siya nakaprotesta, naumid ang dila niya at hindi mahanap ang boses niya. Sunod na lang niyang namalayan ay ang pagtulo ng luha niya sa hapdi matapos mag-isa ang katawan nila. Namilipit siya sa sakit sa bawat galaw nito. Tila napunit na nito lahat ng nasa loob niya at kahit bagalan pa nito ay hiyaw ang kumakawala sa bibig niya. Pinirmi pa nito ang bewang niya. Nawalan na rin ng lakas ang mga kamay niya na kahit binitiwan nito ay hindi siya nakakilos para itulak ito. Namimigat ang paghinga niya at napapa-igik sa bawat madiing galaw nito sa loob niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang malaking katawan nitong gumagalaw sa kanyang itaas. Ni hindi niya alam kung paanong natapos ang pangyayaring iyon. Ang alam niya lang ay nakuha ng isang estrangherong lalaki ang puri niya. Paggising niya ay nananakit ang katawan niya. Takot pa siyang alisin ang blindfold ngunit kusa iyong nalaglag. Namulatan niya ang tahimik na kwarto, walang bakas na may nakasama siya ngunit ang dugo sa kobre kama ay patunay na wala na sa kanya ang iniingatan niya. Napasubsob siya sa kanyang tuhod at napahagulhol. Masyado siyang nagpadalos-dalos sa desisyon niya! Dapat ay inalam niya muna kung ano'ng klaseng sarap ang sinasabi ng mga ito! Kahit hirap maglakad ay pinilit niya ang sariling magbihis at umalis sa lugar na iyon. Wala na rin naman ang mga bouncer. Kahit si Nica ay hindi niya mahagilap. Sa sobrang pagod niya ay hindi na niya pinansin ang boyfriend ng Tita niya na nasa sala. Diretso siyang kwarto at binagsak ang katawan doon. Ang masama, nilagnat pa siya at napanaginipan ng ilang beses ang nangyari! Tatlong araw din siyang hindi nakapasok. Para siyang lutang na naglalakad noong pumasok na sa eskwela. Natulala pa siya sa nakangiti niyang kaibigan. "Bayad na ang tuition fee nating dalawa. Ang galing! May allowance pa, Lei!" Hagikhik nito bago pinakita ang cheque na may malaking halagang nakasulat. Napalunok siya. Ito na iyon. Ito na ang kapalit ng pagsali nila sa Sorority. Dapat bang kalimutan na lang niya ang nangyari sa kanila ng lalaki? "Ang balita ko ay mga Fraternity leader ang mga lalaking iyon, Lei. Hindi ko rin nakilala ang sa'kin," kwento pa ni Nica sa kanya. "H-indi ka ba umiyak? O nasaktan? Ako kasi pakiramdam ko nahati ang katawan ko," mahinang sambit niya. Namula ang mga pisngi nito, "Hindi ko una iyon kaya... sakto lang ang sakit." Napaawang ang mga labi niya sa kaibigan. Hindi pa mag-sink in sa kanya iyon. Wala naman siyang karapatan na husgahan ito kaya tumango na lang siya. "Wala bang meeting ang Sorority ngayon? Gusto kong magtanong kay Alicia. Baka pwede ko ng makita man lang iyong Phoenix na nakasama ko," imbis ay liko niya sa usapan. "Hindi tayo natanggap doon, Lei." "A-no? P-aanong hindi? Pero bayad na ang tuition fee base na rin sa benefits nila." Umiling ito, "Bayad iyon sa'tin, Lei. Hindi tayo kasapi ng grupo nila. Hindi tayo tinanggap." Para siyang nabingi sa narinig. Kumuyom ang kamao niya. Ang ibig sabihin ay inalay lang sila sa mga Fraternity leader na iyon. Gusto niyang magdamdam at ibalik ang perang natanggap ngunit hindi niya magawa lalo na noong mas maghigpit sa pera ang Tita Agnes niya. Naka-survive siya ng halos dalawang buwan sa allowance na bigay ng grupo. May natira pa ngunit hindi sasapat iyon kaya muli siyang kumakatok sa kwarto ng Tita niya. "Tita, hihingi po sana ako ng allowanceโ" Nabitin sa ere ang kamay niya at napatingala kay Richard noong buksan nito ang kwarto. Sumandal pa ito at humalukipkip. Napaatras siya noong bigla siya nitong pasadahan ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Nagtagal pa ang mga titig nito sa mga dibdib niya kaya nayakap niya ang sarili. "B-akit ka nandito? N-asaan si Tita Agnes?" Ngumisi ito at mas niluwangan ang pinto, "Dito na ako nakatira. May binili lang ang Tita mo. Kalahating oras pa iyon sa bayan. Baka gusto mong paligayahin muna kita." Napasinghap siya sa takot at umatras "Manyak!" galit niyang sigaw dito ngunit pilit nitong inabot ang siko niya at hinihila siya papasok sa kwarto. "Mabilis lang, Lei. Hindi malalaman ng Tita mo. Tayong dalawa langโ" "Bitiwan mo ko! Ayoko sa'yo!" Malakas niya itong sinampal. Nabitiwan siya nito at sinalo ang pisnging sinampal niya. "Punyeta ka, Lorelei! Bakit mo sinampal si Richard?!" biglang sigaw ng Tita niya mula sa likod kaya natulos siya sa kinatatayuan.p Nanginig siya sa kaba lalo na sa nanlilisik na tingin ng Tita niya. "T-ita, kasiโ" "Lumayas kang Punyeta ka! Palamunin ka na nga lang hindi ka pa marunong rumespeto!" Namilog ang mga mata niya noong bigla na lang siya nitong hilahin sa buhok at kaladkarin sa labas ng bahay. "T-ita, nagkakamali kayo! Sinubukan niya akong dalhin sa kwartoโ" "Wala akong pakialam! Napakalandi mo at pati boyfriend ko inaakit mo!" sigaw nito bago siya tinulak sa labas ng pinto. Muntik na siyang sumubsob sa lupa kun'di siya nakabalanse. Malakas pa nitong sinarado ang pinto ngunit bumalik para lang itapon sa pagmumukha niya ang iilang damit. "Lumayas ka at huwag kang babalik dito! Hindi ko kailangan ng malanding pamangkin!" sobrang lakas na sigaw nito na nakapagpalabas sa mga kapitbahay nila. Hiyang-hiya siya noong magbulungan ang mga iyon. Nayakap na lang niya ang mga damit at ang alkansyang baboy niyang tinapon nito sa kanyang paanan. Nagbagsakan ang mga luha niya. Gusto niyang ipaglaban na bahay iyon ng Mama niya ngunit alam niyang hindi na makikinig ang tiyahin niya. Tinago na lang niya ang mukha sa mga damit na hawak at mabilis na nagtawag ng tricycle. Nagpunta siya kila Nica at maging ito ay gigil na gigil sa tiyahin niya at kay Richard matapos niyang magkwento. "Ipabarangay mo, Lei. Wala siyang karapatan sa bahay na iyon. Sa'yo iyon! Pati ang negosyo ng Mama mo, sa'yo iyon! Pinagkaitan ka niya, lahat ng pera ng Mama mo siya ang nagwaldas. Hmp! Kumukulo ang dugo ko sa Tita Agnes mo!" Umakto pa itong manunugod ngunit pinigilan niya sa siko at umiling dito. "H-uwag na, Nica. Hindi ko na rin naman gugustuhing bumalik doon lalo na kung naroon si Richard." "Pero paano ka? Saan ka titira? Paano ang pag-aaral mo? Patapos na tayo, Lei. Bayad na rin ang tuition fee mo." Bumagsak ang tingin niya sa sahig at nanlabo ang mga mata. Hindi niya rin alam kung paano malalagpasan iyon pero pinilit niyang maghanap ng trabaho at apartment na maliit. Sakto lang sa kanya ngunit pagod na pagod nga lang siya bilang waitress ng eatery. Makailang beses tuloy siyang nakatulog sa klase at ang huli ay nahuli pa siya ng lalaking matandang professor niya. "Miss Carpio, alam mong bawal matulog sa klase ko." Napalunok siya at hindi mapigilan ang mga pumipikit na mga mata, "S-orry, Sir. Hindi na po mauulit." Umismid ito at lumayo ngunit noong makita siya na muling pumikit ay galit na siya nitong pinalabas. Nanghihina tuloy siyang napakapit sa pader ng hallway. Naghabol ng paghinga at pakiramdam niya ay umiikot ang paligid niya. Isang hakbang pa ay alam niyang sinakop na siya ng dilim. Noong magising ay nasa tabi na niya si Nica na mukhang kinabahan. Mabilis pa itong umalalay noong pilitin niyang umupo. "Ano'ng nangyari? Tsaka bakit ako nasa clinic, Nica?" Natameme ito ngunit nangilid ang luha sa gilid ng mga mata. Binugso tuloy siya ng kaba at napatitig dito. "B-akit, Nica?" Suminghot ito, "B-untis ka, Lei." Tila nawalan siya ng paghinga sa narinig mula dito. Napalunok siya at nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata. "Hindi gumamit ng proteksyon ang nakasama mo sa initiation, Lei. Binuntis ka niya," sobrang hinang sambit nito. Bumagsak ang luha niya at nanginginig ang kamay na dumapo sa impis niyang tiyan. "Patakaran ng Fraternity nila na gumamit ng proteksyon, pero dahil buntis ka... sigurado akong hindi siya gumamit no'n," patuloy pa nitong paliwanag ngunit naba-blangko na ang isip niya lalo't hindi na niya alam ang sunod na gagawin sa buhay niya. "P-aano ko siya mahahanap, Nica? Paano na ako? Hindi ko pa kaya." Tuloy - tuloy na naglandas ang mga luha niya habang inaalala ang pangalan ng lalaki. "Phoenix. Tama, Phoenix ang pangalan niya, Nica. Hanapin na'tin. Itanong na'tin kay Alicia," pagsusumamo niya sa kaibigan ngunit umiling ito. "Phoenix is just a code name, Lei. Sigurado akong hindi rin siya kilala ni Alicia lalo na kung isa siya sa mga leader," sagot nito na nagpabagsak sa mga balikat niya. "Tingin ko, sinadya niyang buntisin ka," muling sambit nito na nagpakuyom sa kamao niya. FIVE YEARS LATER Para siyang pinutulan ng pakpak dahil sa nangyaring iyon sa buhay niya. Wala siyang choice noon kun'di tumigil sa pag-aaral at magpokus sa trabaho para may pera pagkapanganak niya. Sinubukan naman niyang hanapin ang lalaki, pati nga si Alicia ay ginulo niya ngunit bigla na lang itong naglaho na parang bula. Pati ang kaibigan niyang si Nica ay bigla ring nawala at hindi alam kung saan napunta kaya natakot siyang maghaluglog pa ng impormasyon. Ang tanging nalaman niya ay leader ng Alpha Omega Fraternity ang lalaking nakakuha sa pagkabirhen niya. Limang taon na ang lumipas ngunit hindi niya talaga makakalimutan ang nangyaring iyon lalo't dalawang supling ang pabaon sa kanya ng lalaki. "Mama, wait ka namin mamaya. Promise mo bibili po tayo ng toys?" Kumurap-kurap pa sa kanya ang biluging mga mata ng anak niyang babaeng si Odessy. Marahan siyang lumuhod at inayos ang pagkaka-pigtail ng buhok nito. "Promise! Huwag kang lalayo kay Achi ah? Makinig kay teacher," habilin niya dito bago marahang hinila din palapit ang anak niyang lalaking si Achilles. "Mama, iyong book. Isa na lang bilhin mo po, share na lang kami ni Ody," marahang paalala sa kanya ni Achilles. Pilit siyang ngumiti sa mga ito. Parehong nasa daycare ang dalawa. Pinipilit niyang maibigay lahat ng pangangailangan nila pero sobrang hirap lalo't hindi siya tapos ng kolehiyo at hindi makahanap ng trabahong mataas ang pasahod. "Hindi pwede, Achi. Kailangan tig-isa kayo. Doon kayo sasagot. Ako ng bahala. Bantayan mo ang kapatid mo. Baka makipag-away." Ginulo niya pa ang buhok ito at marahang kinurot ang hindi kalakihang pisngi. "Pwede naman ako sa papel lang sasagot, Mama," pilit nito na inilingan niya. Ayaw niya ng ganoon. Hindi niya ipagkakait ang magandang edukasyon sa mga anak niya. Hindi hangga't nabubuhay siya. "Si Mama na bahala. Ubusin niyo baon niyo. Okii?" Malawak na ngumiti si Ody sa kanya at humawak sa braso ng kapatid. Si Achi man ay pilit na ngumiti. "Mama, ingat!" sabay pang sigaw ng dalawa bago maglakad papasok sa classroom. Pinigilan niya ang naninikip na dibdib matapos tumama sa liwanag ng araw ang mga mata ng mga ito at masilayan kung paanong naging kayumanggi ang mga itim na mga mata ng mga ito. Ilang beses na niyang hinanap sa mga lalaki ang ganoong klase ng mata. Maitim kapag walang araw ngunit kulay kayumanggi kapag nasinagan. Hindi ganoon ang mga mata niya kaya sigurado siyang namana ng dalawa iyon sa mga ama ng mga ito. Hindi rin siya naniniwalang sinadya siyang buntisin ng lalaking iyon dahil hanggang ngayon, walang nagpapakilala para akuin ang mga anak niya. Bumuga siya ng hangin at agad na nagtungo sa opisina ng abogadong amo niya. Ngunit masamang balita ang bumungad sa kanya. "I'm really sorry, Lei. Ipapasara na ang firm. Sa bahay na muna magtatrabaho ang asawa ko at ako na muna ang sekretarya niya. Pasensya ka na. Huling sahod mo na 'to." Nilapit pa ni Misis Alvarez ang sobre sa kanya. Napalunok siya at napatitig doon. Dalawang taon na siyang sekretarya ni Mr. Alvarez at hindi naman lingid sa kaalamam niyang pabagsak na ang firm nito. Nilunok na lang niya ang bikig sa lalamunan niya. Sigurado siyang mahihirapan na naman siyang maghanap ng trabaho. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Umikot na rin sa isip niya ang mga bayarin niya. Simula sa renta sa bahay, sa kuryente, allowance ng kambal, at mga bayarin sa eskwela. "W-ala po ba kayong kilala na... pwede kong lipatan, Misis Alvarez?" Bumuntong hininga ang Ginang, "Tatawagan ko ang kakilala ko, Hija. Itatanong ko kung may alam siyang naghahanap ng sekretarya pero hindi ako nangangako. Tatawagan na lang kita." Bagsak ang balikat na umalis siya doon. Halos hindi siya makalunok matapos bilangin ang iilang libong sahod niya para sa buwan na iyon. Tubig nga lang ang binili niya sa convenience store habang nagtitingin - tingin sa diyaryo. Kahit ano'ng trabaho papatusin na niya kaysa walang trabaho sa loob ng ilang buwan. "Tanggal na naman?! Pang ilan na 'yan ngayong buwan. Ano bang gusto niya? Single? Walang single na babae ang papatol sa gusto ni Mr. Montanier โFine, Eman. Ako na ang maghahanap ng bago niyang sekretarya. Kainis!" Nagpantig ang tainga niya sa narinig at mabilis na napaangat ng tingin sa Ginang na aburidong binaba ang hawak na cellphone. Mabilis siyang tumayo noong akma itong lalabas sa convenience store. Nagulat ito noong pigilan niya sa braso. "Bakit, Hija?" Kumunot ang noo nito sa kanya. Sa tantiya niya ay nasa edad forty-five na ito base na rin sa iilang litaw na puting buhok. "N-aghahanap po kayo ng sekretarya?" kabadong tanong niya. Literal na pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Sa kaba niya ay nabitiwan niya ang braso nito. "May asawa ka?" Mabilis siyang umiling, "Wala po!" Tumango ito at nilahad ang kamay kaya mabilis niyang nilagay doon ang resume niya. Mabilis nitong pinasadahan ang papel bago pinasok sa bag nito. "Tanggap ka na. Sumama ka sa'kin." Walang pagdadalawang isip siyang sumama sa Ginang. Imbis na sa kumpanya ay sa malaki at modernong bahay siya dinala. Sa isang exclusive subdivision iyon. Babasagin ang dingding at kumikinang ang mga mamahaling mwebles ng bahay. Kulay abo at puti ang bahay kaya sigurado siyang lalaki ang magiging amo niya. "Ako si Melia, Hija. Pinaka-sekretarya ni Sir Hector. Bukod sa'kin, may isa pa siyang sekretarya, si Eman. Pareho kaming sa kumpanya at kailangan pa ng isa pang sekretarya ni Sir Hector. On-call at kung pwede ay stay-in." Natigilan siya sa sinabi nito, "Stay-in po?" Hindi pwede sa kanya ang trabahong ganoon lalo na kung hindi pwedeng dalhin ang mga anak niya. "Bawal ba, Hija? Kaya tinanong kita kung may asawa ka. Madalas na magtrabaho sa bahay si Hector. Workholic at umaabot ng madaling araw. Kailangan na may magremind sa kanya sa schedule at dapat niyang pirmahan. Hindi naman madalas na stay-in pero paglalaanan na kita ng kwarto dito. Wala ka naman din sigurong anak di ba? Gusto niya ay single, walang extra baggage at kaya ang trabaho. Sana naman ikaw na ang huli at magtatagal dito sa bahay niya," patuloy na paliwanag nito. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Kung ganoon hindi niya pwedeng sabihin na may kambal siyang anak. "Maglipat ka na ng iilang gamit mo. Pwede kang bumalik bukas ng umaga para pag-usapan ang sahod mo. Nasa event pa si Sir Hector at madaling araw pa babalik. Lahat ng gamit dito pwede mong gamitin. Kung masipag ka, linisin mo na rin, may dagdag sahod naman. Isabay mo na rin ang kwarto niya." "Hindi po ba nakakatakot si Sir Hector?" Natigil ito sa tanong niya. Pagkaraan ay tinuro ang malaking portrait sa sala. Sinundan niya iyon ng tingin. Nagtaasaan ang mga balahibo niya sa klase ng tingin nito sa camera. Galit maging ang magkasalubong nitong makapal na kilay. Walang ngiti ang manipis na labi at mabalbas na panga. Halata ring matigas ang panga nito. At ang ilong, sobrang tangos! Maging ang buhok nitong nakasuklay palikod ay kumikinang sa larawan. Higit sa lahat, litaw ang matipunong dibdib nitong may makapal na balahibo. Sa larawan ay seryoso itong nag-aayos sa relong pambisig. "He's Hector Montanier and he's a perfectionist. So please, beware. Huwag kang gumawa ng bagay na ikakagalit niya kung ayaw mong mawalan agad ng trabaho, Hija," madiing paalala nito kaya napalunok siya. Kaya niya ba? Kaya niya bang pagsilbihan ang lalaking sa larawan pa lang ay mukhang papatay na? Paano pa sa personal? Baka hindi na siya makahinga kapag nakaharap ito. "Gusto ka niyang makausap." Gulat pa siya noong ilahad ni Miss Melia ang cellphone sa kanya. Nanginginig ang kamay niyang tinanggap iyon at nilagay sa tainga niya. Dinig niya ang mahinang musika sa background ngunit mas dinig niya ang mabibigat nitong paghinga. "Your name?" swabe at malamig ang boses nito kaya nahigit niya ang paghinga. "L-orelei Carpio po, Sir." Mahina ngunit marahas na paghinga ang narinig niya mula dito. "Lorelei, hmm," namamaos na sambit nito sa pangalan niya at hindi niya alam kung bakit naghatid iyon ng kakaibang init sa kaibuturan niya. Mabilis niyang binalik ang cellphone kay Miss Melia. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya at hindi kayang kausapin ang bagong boss niya. "B-abalik na lang po ako bukas," tarantang paalam niya. Kahit hindi pa ito um-oo ay lumabas na siya ng bahay na iyon. May mali sa pakiramdam niya. Bakit ganoon? Bakit pakiramdam niya buong boses nito ang humagod sa katawan niya? Iniisip niya pa kung narinig na ba niya iyon noon, pamilyar ngunit hindi niya maalala. "Lorelei, hmm." Muling umulit sa isipan niya ang pagtawag nito sa kanya. Naipagdikit niya ang mga hita lalo't tila namasa ang nasa pagitan ng mga iyon. Bumigat ang paghinga niya. Parang ayaw na niyang tanggapin ang trabaho lalo na kung araw - araw niyang makakasalamuha si Hector Montanier. Tulala tuloy siya noong sunduin ang kambal. Dinala niya pa sa malapit na bilihan ng laruan para na rin makalimutan niya ang pagtawag ni Sir Hector sa kanya. "Itong teddy bear na lang, Mama. Kapag barbie, ako lang ang maglalaro, kapag car naman, si Achi lang. Pero itong bear, pwede kaming share, Mama!" Masiglang tinaas pa ni Ody ang maliit na puting teddy bear. Nahabag siya sa mga ito. Hindi man lang niya maibili ng kahit tig-isang laruan. Hindi man lang niya mapakain sa sikat na fastfood ang mga anak. Mabilis siyang tumango ngunit umiwas ng tingin noong mapansin ang paninitig ni Achi sa kanya. Binayaran na lang niya ang teddy bear para makauwi na sila. Akala niya ay nakaligtas na siya sa mapanuring titig ng anak ngunit hindi. "Mama, iyong book. Kailangan na raw bilhin. Isa na lang, Mama. Kay Ody na lang. Kung hindi pwede, sa susunod na lang po ako mag-aral," kalmadong pagkausap ni Achi sa kanya. Parang pinilipit ang puso niya. Hindi niya hahayaan na mangyari iyon! Hindi deserve ng mga anak niya na maranasan ang nangyari sa kanya. "Hindi, Achi. Bibilhin natin bukas iyon. May bago na akong trabaho." Pinisil niya pa muli ang pisngi nito. Namula nga iyon lalo na't sobrang puti ng dalawa. Ang balak tuloy niyang pagtanggi na sa trabaho ay naudlot. Mas kailangan niya pala iyon. Bahala na kung ano'ng klaseng tao si Sir Hector, basta siya, trabaho lang ang gusto niya. Kinabukasan ay kinausap niya ang mga ito na gagabihin siya. Ayaw niyang iwanan pero hindi niya pwedeng isama. Kung malaki ang sahod niya ay kukuha siya ng bantay para sa mga ito. Kabado siyang bumalik sa malaking bahay. Sa harap pa lang ng pinto ay kumakalabog na ang dibdib niya. Kita na niya roon ang mamahaling sport car na wala kahapon. Nanginginig tuloy ang kamay niyang i-input ang code na pinadala pa sa mensahe ni Miss Melia upang mabuksan niya ang pinto. Pagbukas ay tumambad sa kanya ang pares ng mamahaling itim na sapatos. Pinulot niya iyon upang maitabi. Ngunit nabaling ang atensyon niya sa mahinang hilik sa sala. Kinakabahan siyang lumapit. Tumingkayad para lang masilip ang bagong boss niyang mahimbing ang tulog sa sofa. Halos hindi nga ito magkasya doon sa laki ng katawan. Ang isang binti nito ay nasa sahig habang ang isa ay nasa arm rest. Unan nito ang namumutok na braso at higit sa lahat ay bukas ang suot nitong puting longsleeve kaya't malaya niyang nasilayan ang makapal na balahibo sa matipuno nitong dibdib. Napalunok siya at imbis na lumiko ay umakyat ang tingin niya sa awang nitong mga labi. Namumula at nakasilip pa ang pantay-pantay na puting ngipin nito. Sa totoo lang, para itong modelo ng brief at toothpaste na lumabas sa magazine. Pati panga ay naninigas at sigurado siyang hindi basta-basta ang alaga nito sa ibaba. Ano bang pinag-iisip niya?! "Are you done checking me out, Miss?" namamaos pang bigkas nito bigla kaya napasinghap siya. Nabitin sa ere ang paghinga niya at namilog ang mga mata noong magkatitigan sila. Inaantok pa ang itim nitong mga mata at sobrang haba ng mga pilikmata kaya lalo siyang hindi nakapagsalita. "Close your mouth. Your lips look so delectable," inaantok nitong bigkas muli ngunit iba ang dating ng boses sa kanya kaya nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Ang boses nito ay parang kagagaling sa nakakapagod na ehersisyo sa kama. Magaspang na namamaos. "Close them... please. I might kiss you if you keep drooling on me. Do you want me... to take you here?" biglang tanong nito kaya namula lalo ang mga pisngi niya. Para siyang naeskandalo at hindi na makatingin dito ngunit nahuli niya ang pag-angat ng gilid ng labi nito. Hindi iyon ngiti kun'di maliit na ngisi. Lumitaw pa sa kanang gilid ng labi nito ang hindi kalalimang dimple. "Just kidding. Let's talk inside my office," bawi nito bago biglang bumangon. Mabilis siyang umiwas at napayuko noong basta na lang ito nag-alis ng butones ng longsleeve nito at swabe iyong hinubad. "Do I smell liquor?" mabigat na tanong nito kaya lang ay ayaw niyang lumingon dito kaya nanatili ang titig niya sa sahig. "I'm asking you. Amoy alak ba ako, Lorelei?" halos paos na naman ang boses nito kaya napapikit siya nang mariin. Iba talaga ang hagod ng boses nito sa katawan niya. Lahat ng balahibo niya ay nagtataasan at pati puson niya ay nakikiliti. Napalunok siya noong maramdaman ang paglapit nito. Pagmulat pa niya ay mabalahibong paa ang nakita niya sa harap ng mga paa niya. "N-o, Sir. H-indi po kayo amoy alak," kabadong sagot niya noong akma siya nitong hahawakan. Pag-angat ng tingin niya ay seryoso itong naninitig sa kanya. Salubong ang kilay. Hindi niya nga maitutok ang tingin sa mukha nito lalo't nakabalandra sa harap niya ang hubad nitong katawan. Bumigat ang paghinga niya at gusto na lang pindutin ang matitigas nitong muscles. "In my office," may awtoridad na nitong utos bago tumalikod. Napabuga siya ng hangin. Napapaypay sa sarili at hindi maiwasang manghina. Parang naubos ang lakas niya dito. Sinulyapan niya na lang ang matipuno nitong likod na pumasok sa isang pinto. Huminga siya nang malalim nang ilang beses at binalik ang mga sapatos sa sahig bago sumunod. Nakasandal na ito sa swivel chair at mukhang hinihintay siya. Nahuli niya agad ang mariing titig nito. "Here, Lorelei," malalim na sambit nito at marahang tinipa ang daliri nito sa mesa. Tahimik siyang lumapit kahit nahihiya. Na-conscious siya sa paninitig nito at pakiramdam niya ay hubad na siya sa isip nito. "I might require you to work 24/7, so make sure you don't have any extra baggage to attend to. Don't worry, I'll pay you triple or name your price," seryosong saad nito matapos iabot sa kanya ang blankong cheque na may pirma na nito. Napatitig siya doon ngunit hindi inasahan ang pagtayo nito at paglapit sa likod niya. Muli siyang naestatwa matapos maramdaman ang init ng paghinga nito sa bandang tainga at leeg niya. Hindi pa siya nakakilos noong lumapat sa bewang niya ang mainit at malaking palad nito. "S-ir," kabado niyang bigkas. "Single?" imbis ay tanong nito kaya mabilis siyang tumango. "Good. Birhen?" sunod na tanong nito kaya nanlaki ang mga mata niya. Hindi siya makasagot. Sasabihin ba niyang may anak na siya at kambal pa? Baka hindi siya nito tanggapin! "Y-es, Sir," pagsisinungaling niya. Marahas itong huminga na tila nahihirapan at nagpipigil. Napaangat nang bahagya ang balikat niya noong tumama doon ang matangos nitong ilong na tila inaamoy siya. Nakiliti pa siya sa mabalbas nitong pangang na humagod sa balat niya. "Perfect for me," halos dumikit pa ang labi nito sa paos nitong bulong kasabay ng pagdiin ng palad nito sa kanyang bewang na tila gusto na siyang sunggaban. Hindi niya alam na kanina pa niya pigil ang paghinga kung hindi lang ito lumayo. "Ikukuha kita ng dress. We'll attend an event," pinal na sambit nito kaya namilog ang mga mata niya. "Po? Sir, hindi po pwedeโ" Mas namilog ang mga niya noong tumama sa mga labi niya ang hintuturo nito upang patigilan siya. "Shhh. Sasama ka. You're now my secretary. Kung nasaan ako, doon ka." madiing sagot nito na akala mo ay hindi iyon big deal. Hindi siya makareklamo. Paglabas ng opisina nito ay gusto niyang ibalik ang cheque. Tinawagan niya rin si Miss Melia. "Hindi ka pwedeng umatras, Lorelei. Lagyan mo limang milyon iyang cheque niya para makabawi ka kung gusto mo. Kumpara sa mga nauna sa'yo, mas pabor si Sir Hector sa'yo. Mag-enjoy ka na lang sa event, Hija." Napirmi ang mga labi niya. Dapat pala pinag-isipan niyang mabuti. Napilitan tuloy siyang mag-ayos. Hindi pa siya kumportable sa baby blue cocktail dress na inorder nito. Yukong-yuko siya noong titigan nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya matapos masulyapan ang madiing titig nito. Para tuloy siyang hindi makahinga sa paninitig nito. Pakiramdam niya ay hinuhubaran na siya nito sa isip pa lang. "Chin up. You look... gorgeous," mahinang papuri nito. Sinubukan nitong hawakan ang bewang niya ngunit umiwas siya. Hilaw siyang ngumiti. "Alis na po tayo para agad makabalik, Sir." Nauna pa siya sa harap ng sasakyan nito. Nanliliit ang tingin nito noong pagbuksan siya ng pinto. Mali ba na umiwas dito? Boss niya ito at mali na magustuhan siya nito. Umikot ito sa driver seat noong makaupo na siya. Namroblema pa siya paano aayusin ang seatbelt ngunit nahigit niya ang hininga noong ito mismo ang umagaw sa seatbelt niya at nag-ayos no'n. Nasamyo niya tuloy ang matapang nitong pabango na may halong lemon. Akala pa niya ay ang air freshener pero hindi, amoy lemon talaga ito at masarap sa ilong. Maliit itong nangunguso noong paandarin ang sasakyan. Umiiwas siya ng tingin dito. Kumakalabog ang dibdib niya ngayong nasa isang sasakyan lang sila. Kinipkip niya pa ang bag sa mga hantad niyang hita. "How old are you, Lorelei?" biglang tanong nito na muntik magpatalon sa kanya sa upuan. "T-wenty five, Sir." "Hm. Never been touched? Never been kissed? And of course, never... Am I right?" senswal at bulgar nitong tanong. Tumiim bagang siya. Alam na niya ang kalibre nito kung bakit gusto nito ng Birhen. Sigurado siyang marami na rin itong naikama at delikado siya kung hindi siya mag-iingat. "I'm not comfortable with tbose questions, Sir," pag-amin niya. Hindi ito kumibo. Nasilip niya ang pagsasalubong ng kilay nito. Nakasandal na nga ang siko nito sa bintana at pinaglalaruan ng mga daliri nito ang ibabang labi nito. Isang kamay lang ang gamit nitong pagdrive. Nakarolyo ang asul na manggas ng longsleeve at ang lakas manampal ng kayamanan ng mamahaling relo nito. "Would you like to pretend to be my girlfriend?" biglang tanong nito sa kawalan. "Po?" Umigting ang panga nito, "My ex will be there with her new boytoy. Ayoko talagang magpunta na mag-isa, but I have to show up. It's business related. Ipapakilala kitang bagong girlfriend ko. Don't worry, I'll pay you for this," paliwanag nito. "Pero, Sirโ" "Just this once, Kitty. After this, you can be just my plain secretary." Napakurap siya at napalinga pa sa backseat kung sino ang tinawag nitong Kitty. "Cute, Kitten," nangingising sambit nito sa reaksyon niya. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Walanghiya! Siya pala ang pusa! Wala rin siyang nagawa noong pagdating nila sa event ay ito mismo ang nag-ayos sa braso niya pakapit sa braso nito. "Just stay beside me, Kitty. Smile as if you are head over heels for me," nakangising paalala nito. Sa dami ng mga bigating tao ay naging peke ang ngiti niya. Sa isang pabilog silang mesa napunta at naupo. Ramdam niya agad ang titig ng isang babae sa kanya na tila gusto siyang patumbahin. "Oh gosh, you got a new girl, Hector. I'm happy for you, Hijo. Hindi sana magloko katulad ng nauna," ani ng isang Ginang na bobo kay Sir Hector. Tumabingi ang ngiti niya habang ang babaeng nakatitig sa kanya ay umirap. Humilig pa ito sa braso ng lalaking katabi. "We should go home early, Babe. Bawal magpuyat ang buntis," dinig niyang bulong nito sa lalaki. Ramdam niya ang paninigas ng katawan ni Hector at kahit nakangiti ito sa mga kausap ay pansin naman niya ang panaka-nakang pag-igting ng panga nito. "Alejandro and I are having a baby boy, Mrs. Sarmiento," dinig niyang sagot ng babae matapos itong tanungin sa pinagbubuntis. Hindi na nga niya ito nilingon bagkus ay natutok ang titig niya kay Hector na naging sunod-sunod ang inom ng alak. Hindi siya nakatiis at inagaw ang brandy na hawak nito at ininom iyon. "What are you doing?" bulong na tanong nito. "Hindi ka pwedeng malasing. Magda-drive ka pa," madiing bulong niya pabalik. Lumapit ito at nagtaasan ang mga balahibo niya noong dumikit ang ilong nito sa leeg niya. "My Kitty is concern," namamaos nitong bulong kasabay pa ng pagdapo ng mainit nitong palad sa hita niya. Ginalaw niya ang hita ngunit dumiin ang kapit nito. Wala tuloy sa sariling napainom siya ng alak. "Crizaa, come back here!" Nabaling ang atensyon niya sa lalaking Alejandro yata ang pangalan. Tinatawag nito ang babaeng masama ang titig sa kanya na nag-walk out ngayon lang. Doon lang nawala sa hita niya ang palad ni Hector. Lumagok pa ito ng alak bago tumayo. "Comfort room," paalam nito pero ang titig ay nasa babaeng papalayo. Hindi niya alam kung bakit nadismaya siyang sinundan nito ang babae. Umiwas na lang siya ng tingin at tahimik na uminom. "Ngayon lang kita nakita, Hija. Gaano na kayo katagal ni Hector? Anim na buwan pa lang naman kasi silang hiwalay ni Crizaa," baling sa kanya ng Ginang kanina. Hilaw siyang napangiti, "Three months po," pagsisinungaling niya. Napatango ito. Mabuti na lang at hindi na ito nagtanong muli dahil hindi na niya alam ang isasagot. Nakuha niyang makaubos ng alak ay hindi na bumalik si Hector. Nahihilo na nga siya noong magpunta sa parking lot para doon ito hintayin. Saktong kapapadala niya ng mensahe sa kapitbahay niyang si Ria para tingnan ang kambal noong mamataan si Hector. Napatuwid siya ng tayo noong makita na itong papalapit. Halatang galit kaya hindi na siya nagtanong. Agad na lang siyang pumasok sa sasakyan noong patunugin nito. Maging sa biyahe ay ramdam niya ang galit nito sa hindi malamang dahilan. Madiin ang hawak nito sa manibela. Isa lang ang sigurado niya. Nakausap nito si Crizaa at tiyak na nabigo ito lalo't noong pagdating nila sa bahay nito ay kitang-kita niya ang bumagsak na luha sa gilid ng mga mata nito. Nahabag siya dito, "Sirโ" "Go home, or if you want, you can sleep in one of the guestrooms. Thank you for today, Lorelei," pagtataboy nito sa kanya. Hindi niya alam kung dahil lang sa kalasingan kaya hindi niya ito maiwan. Naaawa siya rito. Agad siyang kumuha ng tissue, lumuhod sa upuan at inabot ang pisngi nito. Pareho pa silang natigilan noong hawakan nito ang kamay niya. "Don't. I'm not weak," pamimilit nito. Naamoy niya ang brandy sa hininga nito at sa malamang ay pareho lang silang may tama ng alak. Napalunok siya noong matitigan ang mga mata nitong dumilim. Balewala niyang pinunasan muli ang pisngi nito ngunit muli nitong pinigilan ang kamay niya. "S-irโ" "If you keep doing that, sa kama tayo babagsak. Umuwi ka bago pa magbago ang isip ko at ipinid ka sa kama," pagbabanta nito. May choice siya, pinapatakas siya nito pero ang katawan niya ay ayaw kumilos. Baka dahil lasing siya. "Pagbilang ko ng lima, lumabas ka na ng sasakyan. I have no mercy when it comes to bed, Kitten," mabigat na bulong nito. Nanuyo ang lalamunan niya at mas lalong hindi nakakilos. "One," pagsisimula nito, nagsimula rin ang mainit nitong palad na umakyat sa hita niya. "Two, get out, Kitty," sobrang paos na sambit na nito habang ang kamay ay nahanap ang garter ng underwear niya. "P-ero, Sirโ" "Five. Pagmumura pa nito bago hatakin ang bewang niya at siilin siya ng halik. Mabilis nitong hinila ang bewang niya at pinaupo siya sa kandungan nito. Nahatak niya ang longsleeve nito matapos nitong ipasok ang dila sa bibig niya habang ang palad nito ay nahatak paalis ang underwear niya. Nahanap ng palad nito ang pagkababae niya at diniin ang daliri doon na kinasinghap niya. Hindi siya makasabay sa halik nito. Naliliyo siya maging sa paghagod ng mga daliri nito sa pagkababae niya. Nanigas ang mga tuhod niya sa kiliti sa puson niya at pamamasa. Hindi siya makahinga nang maayos. Inayos ng isang palad nito ang mga hita niya at pinwesto sa bawat gilid nito. Marahan itong dumukwang at halos isandal siya sa manibela masiil lang siya ng halik muli. Tuluyan na siyang hindi nakasagot ng halik matapos naging mabilis ang hagod ng mga daliri nito sa kanyang ibaba. Napapasinghap siya at ang maiksing katinuhan sa utak niya ay nasakop na ng impluwensya ng alak. "Ahh!" mahinang halinghing niya noong bumaba ang mga labi nito sa panga niya. "I'm giving you another chance to run. Run, Lorelei," udyok na bulong nito kahit pa binababa na nito ang zipper ng dress na suot niya. Napapikit siya. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya sa sobrang init. Bumakas sa mukha niya ang bahagyang ngiwi noong dumausdos papasok ang isang daliri nito. "Not running away? Baka di ka na makalakad bukas. I'm telling you, I'm big," paos at mabigat muli nitong bulong na tila nagtitimpi. Hindi niya alam ngunit lalo siyang namasa sa boses nito. Doon nga lang nag-sink sa kanya na kapag natuloy sila, malalaman nitong hindi na siya Birhen. Mabilis siyang napamulat sa naisip. Balak niya sana itong itulak ngunit paghigit sa damit nito ang nagawa niya noong dumagdag ang daliri nito sa loob niya at sunod-sunod na umulos. "Lintik" hingal niyang pagmumura. Paano pa siya tatakbo kung ang titig nito sa kanya ay nanlalapa? Maalab at alam niyang hindi na ito mapipigilan. Nagawa nitong alisin ang bestida niya. Nailiyad niya pa ang dibdib ngunit agad na sinakop ng mainit nitong bibig ang isa at halos ubusin nito. Nahatak niya ang braso nito upang doon kumuha ng balanse. hubad na siya lahat habang ito ay kumpleto pa ang suot. Pati ang relo sa bisig nito ay naroon pa. "Uhhhh, S-ir!" hiyaw niya noong lalong bumilis ang mga daliri nito sa loob niya. Hindi niya una iyon pero may hapdi pa rin sa kabila ng sensasyong nararamdaman niya. Bumalik tuloy ang alaala niya kung paano nabuo ang kambal niyang anak. Kagaya ni Sir Hector ang lalaki, may kalakihan ang katawan. Ang pinagkaiba lang ay may rahas ang kilos ni Sir Hector. Naitaas niya ang tuhod noong mamilipit sa sarap ang puson niya. Mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa bibig niya matapos maramdaman ang pag-abot niya sa rurok. Hindi tumigil ang mga daliri nito sa pag-ulos ngunit pinakawalan ng bibig nito ang dibdib niya. Naghahabol siya ng hininga noong nilayuan nito ang leeg niya at dibdib. Wala sa sariling nakagat niya pa ang ibabang labi sa paghugot nito sa mga daliri nito. Gulantang nga lang siyang makitang sisubo nito ang mga iyon. "Sir!" pigil niya dito ngunit wala na, napapikit na ito sa pagsubo no'n. Agad pang ngumisi at bahagyang pumasada ang dila sa ibabang labi nito na tila hindi pa ito kuntento. "Addictive," sobrang paos na sambit nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Alam niyang may tama rin ito sa alak kaya nasabi iyon pero hiyang-hiya siya! Hindi pa siya nakababawi noong marinig ang pagbukas nito sa pinto. Napalunok siya at napakapit sa mga balikat nito noong buhatin siya sa ganoong ayos. Inikot pa nito ang mga hita niya sa bewang nito. "You're Birhen. This will hurt. Hindi pwede sa sasakyan. Saka na... kapag sanay ka na," namimigat nitong bulong na nagpatigil sa paghinga niya. Kumalabog ang dibdib niya. Dumiin ang kapit sa balikat nito noong pumasok ito sa bahay at iakyat siya sa kwarto. Marahan pa siya nitong binagsak sa kama ngunit mabilis na lumuhod sa sahig. Sumisinghap pa lang siya ng paghinga ay pinag-hiwalay na nito ang mga hita niya at agad na sinubsob ang bibig nito sa pagkababae niya. "Sir! Uhโohh!" Pinatigas agad nito ang dila at tinukso-tukso siya. Alam na alam nito ang gagawin. Nawala na nga sa isip niyang hindi pa siya nakapag-shave pero kung hagurin ng dila nito ang ibaba niya ay tila paboritong pagkain nito iyon. "Ahh!" Nailiyad niya ang katawan at naitaas ang bewang na mabilis nitong hinila upang mas maidiin ang bibig nito doon. Ang ngipin nito ay sumasabay kaya halos mahila na niya nang buo ang bedsheet sa nararamdamang init. Pinagpawisan na siya kahit pa malakas ang aircon sa kwarto nito. Hindi yata ito tumigil hangga't hindi naririnig ang mahabang ungol niya, senyales na muli niyang naabot ang langit. Hindi niya maisara ang bibig sa pagsimot nito doon. Kahit noong tumayo na ito ay nanghihina siya at hindi maisara ang mga hita niya. Maliit niyang minulat ang mga mata. Huli niya ang mainit nitong titig sa katawan niya habang nagtatanggal ng kasuotan. Pati mamahaling relo nito ay basta lang nito tinapon sa sofa. Ora mimso noong mahubad nito ang mamahaling boxer short ay gumapang ito sa itaas niya. "Ibuka ang iyong mga binti nang mas malawak, Kitty," senswal nitong utos. Kumakalabog lalo ang dibdib niya at nanunuyo ang lalamunan kahit pa sa hita pa lang niya dumikit ang naghuhumigting nitong sandata. Palad na mismo nito ang humagod sa mga hita niya at mas pinaghiwalay ang mga iyon. Napapikit siya noong tuluyang tumama ang sandata nito sa kaselanan niya. Paulit-ulit na humagod na tila tinutukso siya. Pati ang ilong at bibig nito ay panaka-nakang humalik sa leeg at panga niya na tila dinidistract siya nito. "Sir~" hirap niyang bulong at napakapit sa matigas nitong braso noong maramdaman ang dulo ng sandata nito. Tama ito! Malaki ito at duda siyang kakasya sa kanya. Baka muli lang siyang mapunit nito! Ang balak niyang pagtulak sana dito ay nauwi sa pagkapit sa braso nito noong pilitin nito ang pagpasok. Sumigid ang sakit sa kanya at halos magdugo ang labi sa pagkagat niya. Iyon ang pangalawang beses niya pero sa tagal na siguro ng panahon ay pakiramdam niya, unang beses pa lang niya iyon. Kita niyang umigting ang panga nito at tumalim ang tingin. Kinabahan siyang baka nahuli na siya nito pero nahanap nito ang mga palad niya at parehong pininid sa itaas ng ulo niya. Pinagsalikop nito ang mga kamay nila bago sinagad ang pagpasok na kinahiyaw niya. "Ahh!" Hindi niya ito mapalo, hindi niya mabawi ang mga nakapinid na kamay. Pinuno naman nito ng halik ang mukha niya. "Soon, the pain will fade away, Kitty," panunuyong bulong nito. Hindi na niya makilala ang sariling paghinga. Hinayaan siya nitong kumalma ngunit hindi rin ito nakatiis at nagsimulang umulos nang mabagal. Dinidiinan na lang niya ang kapit sa mga kamay nito kapag sinasagad nito nang buo sa loob niya. Dinig niya ang magaspang nitong ungol at tila nahihirapan ding bumayo sa loob niya. Para itong nagtitimpi sa mabagal na paggalaw. "H-indi ka gumamit ng goma, Sir," wala sa sariling sambit niya. "Doesn't matter. I will do withdrawal, don't worry," pagpapakalma nito. Ilang beses siyang lumunok. Ang balakang niya ay napapataas noong bumilis nang bahagya ang galaw nito. Malinaw sa pandinig niya ang pagsusumpungan ng mga kaselanan nila. Nangangalay ang mga hita niya sa pagkakahiwalay at halos lumubog sa kama sa laki ng katawan nito. "Ow!" malakas niyang hiyaw na hindi niya alam kung ilang beses niya naisigaw noong dumoble ang bilis nito. Para itomg may hinahabol at hindi magkamayaw. Ang kama nito ay tumutunog kasabay ng tunog ng kanilang mga katawan. Para itong nawala sa sarili at nagsunod-sunod ang pagbayo sa loob niya. Naghalo ang pawis nila at maging mga ungol. Napuno ang kwarto ng mga hiyaw niya. Nanghihina na siya noong maramdamang malapit na siya. Nagmadali rin ito at sunod sunod ang ulos hanggang sa magkapanabay silang mapaungol. Pinakawalan nito ang mga kamay niya kasabay ng mainit na likidong bumuhos sa loob niya. Parang tumigil ang tibok ng puso niya. Sa loob nito pinutok! Kinabahan siya. Hinihingal itong bumagsak sa itaas niya. "Sleep, Kitty," inaantok pa nitong bulong. Nataranta siya at gusto itong itulak ngunit napakalaki nito. Sumiksik pa ito sa dibdib niya at wala yatang pakialam kahit nasa loob pa niya ang sandata nito! "Sir, uuwi po ako," pilit niyang gising at tulak dito ngunit humigpit ang yakap nito sa bewang niya. "Later, stay still. Huwag kang gagalaw. Huwag mong gisingin," halos bulong na lang na sambit nito. Nanlamig siya sa tinutukoy nito. Pati tuloy paghinga niya ay napigilan niya huwag lang magising ang sandata nito. Para siyang timang na naghintay na humiwalay ito ngunit hindi niya rin namalayang nakatulog na siya. Paggising ay sikat ng araw ang tumama sa mga mata niya. Nasilaw siya at nahirapang magmulat ng mga mata. Masakit ang katawan niya, partikular ang pagkababae niya at mga hita. Doon nga lang din rumehistro sa kanya ang nangyari kagabi. "Punyeta!" napamura siya matapos matantong umaga na pero naroon pa rin siya sa kwarto ni Sir Hector. Mabilis niyang nilingon ang katabi ngunit wala na ito doon. Hindi na nga niya maalala kung ano'ng oras ito umalis sa itaas niya. Hihinga na sana siya nang maluwag kung hindi lang naramdaman ang madiing titig sa kanya na tumatagos sa balat niya. Napalunok siya at unti-unting napatingin sa harap niya. Sumikdo ang dibdib niya at nahila ang kumot. Naroon sa paanan niya si Sir Hector, nakaayos na ng business suit, nakapamulsa habang may hawak na baso ng brandy. Pinaghalong madiin at malamig na titig ang natanggap niya dito at noong liningon nito ang kama na walang bahid ng dugo, alam na niya agad ang nasa isip nito. "S-ir, m-agpapaliwanag po ako," sobrang kabang sambit niya lalo't tumalim ang titig nito at umigting ang panga. | Philip Spicy Reading | 83301 | https://www.facebook.com/61561349855790/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679821 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567648 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | IMAGE | Junk Removal: Starting at $69 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473147989_633637199084963_4393987579279085715_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qwxOZSa2kmsQ7kNvgE5SLZh&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYBinlE_FCmrqNJLeX3Wqb-GcFbvoynOnbGAE2ww0McZIQ&oe=67A656D1 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hey, I'm Byron, founder of Junk Amigos. For years, my team has been clearing out clutter & making spaces cleaner & more livable. ๐ We're deeply invested in the community & committed to responsible disposal & recycling. That's why we're offering junk removal for as low as $69! Proudly serving Charlotte, Concord, Gastonia, Huntersville, Kannapolis & the surrounding areas! Schedule your free estimate. Let's talk about clearing out your clutter! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679547 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567623 | 1745816686 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/467520047_1246110723273212_2243293899086580263_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Pl-pbEMlyg4Q7kNvgH34wXY&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYAulpjo2gaM4mAOC75cutFXcLPugWYbZpCdvW8mnReQDw&oe=67A636AA | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679585 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567628 | 1745816686 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465787963_1278749433032612_1905073517952391227_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p1Y9ep-kdjEQ7kNvgEfdXUr&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYAXZHyE5Nb2WIDq7w9cQFkpV1g64NrYAVmZ0fWYtWtERQ&oe=67A65898 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679794 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567647 | 1745816685 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | VIDEO | Save $2000: Bathroom Remodeling | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474083296_1249265892816963_2531264001768937281_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yZSNESih3XUQ7kNvgEqVNOt&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYC_xvJ0TCzzIN9ti5cyjXfgscXB6Yv0MLQglb0w-1mdHA&oe=67A65665 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi, I'm Ryan, founder of Suffolk Bathroom Remodeling! Let us Transform Your Bathroom into a Personal Oasis ๐ง! The bathroom is not just a functional space; it's your private retreat ๐, a place to unwind, refresh, & start/end your day in comfort & style ๐. We work with you to design a custom vision: ๐ธ Custom Vanities & Countertops ๐ธ Modern Fixtures & Luxury Showers ๐ธ Elegant Flooring & Lighting ๐ธ And so much more! ๐ฅฐ For years, weโve operated locally & believe in the magic of a beautifully designed bathroom. That's why we're offering ๐ธ SAVINGS UP TO $2000 ๐ธ on your next project! Contact us to book your free in-home estimate & allow us to earn your business! ๐ Proudly Serving Huntington, East Northport, Greenlawn, Old Westbury, Halesite & Nearby Areas! ๐ | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679716 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567642 | 1745816685 | 2451 | Get quote | VIDEO | Reliable Moving: Save up to $200 | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474606560_1759439911562754_6828893866384871525_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ac5hI4rQ-pcQ7kNvgE-mpKp&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYDUinNodCBOW4qTcCEO8li2-P0YbO7cpoc2MbiuPoEMdQ&oe=67A65174 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi, Iโm Brandon, owner of Brandon's Moving Company. Moving soon? ๐ก๐ฆ Donโt risk the breaks, scuffs and bangs ๐ฉ! Leave it to the professionals and save yourself the stress! ๐งโโ๏ธ Iโve been in the moving industry for over 20 years now, and have seen and conquered every tight corner, awkward couch shape and delicate collection of plates you could think of. For a limited time Iโd like to offer you a ๐ธ $200 Discount๐ธ on your move! โ๏ธ๐ฆ Just fill out our form, call, or text for a free quote! ๐Proudly Serving Mansfield, Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Irving & Surrounding Areas!๐ | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679811 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567648 | 1745816685 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | VIDEO | Let us Clean Your Home: Get Instant Quote! | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473353975_3491838634456112_6401873692098465111_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7Id2biwAQPgQ7kNvgFDIbLH&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYD4qNofmQNSrFGPNBPDCg1n0L_hXMcEImGLSEFF4KMEFg&oe=67A634B3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi I'm Martha, founder of locally owned, Graceful Maids! ๐งผ How much does it cost to clean your home? The best thing to do is answer the questions on the form so that we can give you a quote! Our team of passionate cleaners will bring the shine back to your home! We're proudly local & dedicated to serving our community. Serving McKinney, Plano, Frisco, Richardson, Allen & Surrounding Areas! Get your free, instant quote! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679721 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/3/25, 10:31 PM | 1738567643 | 1749007877 | 2451 | www.medicalspapromos.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐ชTransform Your Face & Body with Our Rejuvenation Treatments | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/nosweat-fort-wayne-04-optin | 4.8044227515946E+14 | NoSweat Fort Wayne IN | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474384996_632690019324503_2111621361214821462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Xj7s3KQbh0IQ7kNvgGzvzcX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYAcJs00uIeNOCGJqvWuGBoEIYjB6gsXvDmU4oku1FZK_w&oe=67A64950 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ฃ ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐๐ค๐ง๐ฉ ๐๐๐ฎ๐ฃ๐ & ๐๐ช๐ง๐ง๐ค๐ช๐ฃ๐๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ผ๐ง๐๐๐จ! ๐ Say goodbye to saggy skin and hello to a more youthful look! ๐ โ Our personalized treatments can lift, tighten, and enhance the face and body, all while being safe and non-invasive! ๐โโ๏ธ ๐ฐ For a limited time only, claim a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards our most popular ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป treatment packages, including: ๐ ๐ฆ๐ธ๐ถ๐ป ๐ง๐ถ๐ด๐ต๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Non-surgical treatments that firm and tighten excess skin caused by aging or weight loss on the face and body! ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Reduce stubborn fat without the risks and downtime of surgery! ๐ ๐ฅ๐ ๐ฆ๐ธ๐ถ๐ป ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐๐๐ฟ๐ณ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Counteracts years of sun damage, acne scarring, stretch marks and large pores as it visibly removes fine lines! Safe for all skin tones, treats all areas with minimal downtime! ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ฎ๐ถ๐ฟ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐บ๐ผ๐๐ฎ๐น ($๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Gently & permanently reduce or remove hair from any area of the body! ๐ ๐๐บ๐๐ฒ๐น๐น๐ฎ ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): First device of its kind that is FDA-cleared to strengthen the pelvic floor, improve bladder control & enhance intimacy for both men and women! ๐ฉโโ๏ธ Here at ๐ก๐ผ๐ฆ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ ๐ช๐ฎ๐๐ป๐ฒ Our experienced team works to create a treatment plan tailored to each individual's unique needs and budget. Don't wait!! Request a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ now and take the first step towards a more confident you! ๐ฏ Click [LEARN MORE] to claim the offer! ๐ | NoSweat Fort Wayne IN | 19 | https://www.facebook.com/61571194635654/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679592 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567629 | 1745816685 | 2451 | wwwedb.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | At six years old, I accidentally killed my parents. For the punishment I, an alpha female, became a slave in my own house.. My wolf's abilities were bounded, twiceโa crippling blow that left me vulnerable. As if I were nothing more than property, my brother sold me to a ruthless alpha as part of some clan contract. The rumour I've heard about him that nine fiancee has been killed by him. Then, I discovered that this ruthless alpha, the one who now owned me, was my mate ... | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475320200_1116298026710139_3366114778382529830_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PZWozt-6RpMQ7kNvgF3WTCx&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYBor8qWFXztxPAtZD6N_kOmiOk39lltMnOd5N5r86AwOg&oe=67A62A52 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | "Where is she?" I hear the Beta scream. I groan and rise to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket before heading over. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don't make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times. "Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office." Beta Kyle spits at me. I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If only I could find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. But I didn't need another week locked up with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. "We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Don't you understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!" I don't answer, It's a trap, a ploy to provoke me into saying something that would justify punishment. I keep my eyes lowered, avoiding his gaze. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. He was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn't mess around and he had the largest pack. "He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!" We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He grabs my shoulders, his nails digging into my skin as he turns me around and kicks me into the office. "Useless Wolf." He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean against it, observing the already clean office. It looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don't quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. "Is this the way you greet all Alphas?" His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. "I'm sorry." I whisper, getting to my feet. "I...I thought I was alone." I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. "Come forward." He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey wil kill me. I step around the corner, doing as I'm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. "You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?" I nod, though I couldn't tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. "I would prefer it if you spoke to me." He growls, "I'm not in the mood to play games." "Yes." I whisper. I couldn't help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? "Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me." "I..." I hated the question. "You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It's rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?" His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact."My Wolf abilities were bound," I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn't interested in that part. He leans forward, I could feel him staring at me, "Why would someone do that?" If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. "It was a punishment." I whisper. It wasn't far from the entire truth. There's a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn't tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me "Neah, what are you doing in my office?" He turns to the crimson eyed man. "I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane." Crap, it's him. My brother spins around, hand poised to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. "I wouldn't do that if I were you."Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He is taller than my brother, more muscly too. "Neah," My name rolls off of his tongue, "was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested." What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. "Go and get Beta Kyle." Alpha Trey seethes. "Tell him our guest is here." I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. "Beta Kyle," I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. "Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you." He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. "You're lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't see sunlight for a few days." Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn't speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn't last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. "Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating." I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. "Neah is your sister, correct?" Alpha Dane questions my brother. "She is." Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. "Why do you treat her like trash?" Straight to the point, my brother wouldn't like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn't know what to do. I couldn't move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. "Neah was responsible for our parents' death." Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. "Responsible how?" Alpha Dane's voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. "She served them Wolfsbane." Don't make a sound. Don't make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. "You poisoned your parents?" "I was six." I splutter. "I just made them lemonade." My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. "Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old." "A six year old should know the difference between plants." Alpha Trey snaps "Sounds to me like she was set up." Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of me. "You weren't there, Alpha Dane." My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. "I didn't ask you here to talk about my slave!" Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha's he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha's, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. "You're right and now I have a few things to mull over." "I thought we agreed." My brother exclaims "Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out." The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. "What the heck did you say to him?" My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. "N...nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny." "Did you tell him?" Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. "WELL?" My brother yells when I don't immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. "But I didn't say it was you." I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. "If you have ruined this, you won't see daylight again." He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. "Pleaseโฆ." I beg. "He was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him." My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull... "Alpha Dane, I thought you had left." Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. "I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?" "As I said," my brother holds his ground, "She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves." "You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!" Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. "If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?" Both Alpha Trey and Beta Kyle hold their tongues. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. I see those crimson eyes land on my swollen face. "I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey." Alpha Dane speaks up again. "We have already agreed on terms." "Well, I'm adding one. And if you don't agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don't want that." "I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?" Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. "You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal." Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? "Deal." Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn't take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. "I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow." He reaches a hand out and cups my face, "Ensure you have everything packed." He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. "If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about." He struts out, slamming the door behind him. After Dane leaves, my brother grabs me by the collar. "You think you're going to have a good life if you follow Alpha Dane out of here? Don't be naive!" He continues in a vicious voice. "He's the coldest man in the world, he's killed nine of his mates, I'm waiting to see what happens to you!" | New world publications | 3796 | https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679722 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567643 | 1745816685 | 2451 | www.medicalspapromos.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐ชTransform Your Face & Body with Our Rejuvenation Treatments | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/nosweat-fort-wayne-04-optin | 4.8044227515946E+14 | NoSweat Fort Wayne IN | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474447003_1698478587745409_7123859196101015413_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2KkmsPWko_0Q7kNvgGG29cF&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYDQt2wQ2eNwNdGijJW4C4s2_NsdoaTKo5snL0vGv5YQNw&oe=67A63B87 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ฃ ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐๐ค๐ง๐ฉ ๐๐๐ฎ๐ฃ๐ & ๐๐ช๐ง๐ง๐ค๐ช๐ฃ๐๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ผ๐ง๐๐๐จ! ๐ Say goodbye to saggy skin and hello to a more youthful look! ๐ โ Our personalized treatments can lift, tighten, and enhance the face and body, all while being safe and non-invasive! ๐โโ๏ธ ๐ฐ For a limited time only, claim a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards our most popular ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป treatment packages, including: ๐ ๐ฆ๐ธ๐ถ๐ป ๐ง๐ถ๐ด๐ต๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Non-surgical treatments that firm and tighten excess skin caused by aging or weight loss on the face and body! ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Reduce stubborn fat without the risks and downtime of surgery! ๐ ๐ฅ๐ ๐ฆ๐ธ๐ถ๐ป ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐๐๐ฟ๐ณ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Counteracts years of sun damage, acne scarring, stretch marks and large pores as it visibly removes fine lines! Safe for all skin tones, treats all areas with minimal downtime! ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ฎ๐ถ๐ฟ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐บ๐ผ๐๐ฎ๐น ($๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Gently & permanently reduce or remove hair from any area of the body! ๐ ๐๐บ๐๐ฒ๐น๐น๐ฎ ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): First device of its kind that is FDA-cleared to strengthen the pelvic floor, improve bladder control & enhance intimacy for both men and women! ๐ฉโโ๏ธ Here at ๐ก๐ผ๐ฆ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ ๐ช๐ฎ๐๐ป๐ฒ Our experienced team works to create a treatment plan tailored to each individual's unique needs and budget. Don't wait!! Request a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ now and take the first step towards a more confident you! ๐ฏ Click [LEARN MORE] to claim the offer! ๐ | NoSweat Fort Wayne IN | 19 | https://www.facebook.com/61571194635654/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679639 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567631 | 1745816685 | 2451 | discover.mollurahairtransplant.com | Learn More | DCO | Free Consultation | {{product.description}} | https://discover.mollurahairtransplant.com/hair-transplant-sm | 1.017344995789E+14 | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475034505_1328832108144648_4128772286059849435_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-mFoh0k2p5wQ7kNvgFFj1u7&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYCQK0SDPjvjziA-jYPuyRs7g3DOsocz0HxbiIT40T_WBQ&oe=67A6585F | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Turn Back Time on Hair Loss! โฐ Reclaim your confidence with a FUE Hair Transplant at Mollura Hair Restoration. Dr. Anthony Mollura has performed more than 7,000 hair restoration procedures over the last 25 years. Book your FREE Hair Consultation Today! | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | 54 | https://www.facebook.com/molluramedical/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679548 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567623 | 1745816685 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465681421_1551950952870834_4482608007002315807_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GQRlbGsdsxkQ7kNvgGIioub&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYDqAdqw4kYtd1SOW7MDDE31XNopym8fysdUzddfDcWEmg&oe=67A65766 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679582 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567628 | 1745816685 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | IMAGE | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471052642_1347159056459863_7004985787255612528_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oGQ0UBXxfP4Q7kNvgGKsnBo&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYC1lRpl7D6GWuSdY4Lvyo3Wi8o_cLsAH3UUfyfMhy9XXA&oe=67A64690 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679708 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567638 | 1745816685 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | His Scorned Bride Turned Out To Be Legendary | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/67179322-fb_contact-enj83_6-0110-c3-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1721275375067958&exdata=303AD0586C0A3DED95019C539C2D28AB5314B6CF302A0AB4 | 4.3210510665256E+14 | Fragrant Fiction | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475054047_3778103069106858_7038152791530556003_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=s527b1d-73YQ7kNvgEAxrW4&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYAvWgLTqvZc_C0R01-eY9KcmEKnI-BBozpV6ZdgbOOndg&oe=67A638D9 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Rumors claimed she was an uneducated, hot-tempered bumpkin. She sneered and revealed her true identity as a renowned designer, gaming pro, celebrated artist, and business tycoon, leaving everyone stunned! ===== "We're here to escort you home, Miss Morgan." "Your parents have been tirelessly searching for you over the years. Upon discovering your whereabouts, they promptly dispatched us to ensure your return." Fernanda Morgan surveyed the men in crisply tailored suits who stood before her, he appeared to be a butler. "Moreover, the Harper family is keenly anticipating your return. You are to be engaged to Mr. Harper once you return!" "Alright then. Let's go," Fernanda agreed with a slight nod. She collected her already-packed belongings and stepped into the vehicle. The journey from the small town of Zhota to Esaham was a long one, spanning at least two days by car. As dusk enveloped the sky, they pulled into another small town. The butler located a modestly appealing motel and proposed they stay overnight. Fernanda's accommodation was at the far end of the second-floor hallway, Room 201--arguably the best room available. The butler and the rest of their group opted to stay on the lower floor. The night was unusually warm and dry, rendering the room's aging air conditioner useless. Fernanda opened the window to invite a cool breeze, causing the curtains to dance gently in the evening air. Fresh from her shower, she dimmed the lights and crawled into bed for the night. Drifting into a light sleep, she was jolted awake by a disturbance outside. A subsequent noise at the window snapped her to full alert. As she bolted upright, a shadowy figure burst through, launching itself onto her bed. The freezing touch of a bl*de hovered at her neck as a low, threatening voice growled, "Don't you dare move." Immobile, Fernanda's body clenched in fear. The faint, iron tang of bl**d lingered on the man's sleeve--a grim reminder of his dangerousness. This unmistakable hint solidified the fact: this man was no one to mess with. Outside, the commotion intensified. Shortly after, a forceful knock resonated at the door. A coarse voice demanded, "Is anyone there? Open up now!" As the voice still echoed, the kn*fe at Fernanda's neck dug in slightly deeper. The man's voice dripped with malice as he warned, "Get rid of them, or you're as good as dead." His right arm ensnared her waist, his left hand unwavering with the kn*fe at her throat. Through his firm grip and calculated movements, Fernanda realized he was deadly serious. Cornered, she knew she had to play along for the time being. "Sure." With a soft, steady voice, Fernanda reassured him. "It'll all be okay." With no answer from inside, the outsiders used a master key to unlock the door and stormed in. At the sound, the man jerked Fernanda's baggy T-shirt, pulling her down onto his lap and encircling her with his arm, forcing her to straddle him as he shifted position. Right then, the door flung open, and a stark beam of flashlight flooded the room. Fernanda let out a panicked scream, quickly bending over the man to obscure him from view. "Sweetheart, what the hell is this place? How could anyone have the audacity to barge in like that?" Acting as though she was terrified, Fernanda held onto the man, her grip firm and desperate. Her voice, usually sweet and enticing, now carried an edge of annoyance mingled with a breathless charm that was utterly captivating. Suddenly, Fernanda felt the man beneath her tense up. Seconds later, he encircled her with his arm and expertly flipped over, drawing the blanket over both their bodies. As the blanket slid, its soft whispers merged with the steady rhythm of their breaths, painting a scene of understated sensuality. Faces flushed with embarrassment, the group at the door stood stiffly, unprepared for the private display before them. Nonetheless, the couple inside the room showed no signs of halting their intimate exchange. The motel's security guard chuckled uncomfortably, "Looks like they're pretty busy... Maybe we ought to leave, huh?" One of the men brushed past the guard and entered the room with a purposeful stride. Fernanda's heartbeat skyrocketed as she heard the footsteps drawing near. Could they actually be contemplating unveiling them? A chilling bl*de pressed against her side, its pointed tip grazing her skin, sending a shiver through her already tense body. The footsteps halted next to the bed, and with a surge of courage, Fernanda leaned in closer to the man beneath her. Pulled back gently, the blanket gave way to the flashlight's piercing light, exposing a glimpse of her delicate, b*re back. In the softness of the bed, their movements continued unabated. Fernanda's lips met his in a fervent kiss, her hair cascading down to obscure his face, while his hand gently caressed her side. The subdued m**ns that slipped from their lips lent the scene an air of genuine intimacy. Abruptly, a voice erupted from beyond the room, piercing the tranquility. "Boss! Something's going down out on the street!" Instantly, the man at the bedside sprang to his feet and vanished through the door. With the door slamming behind him, Fernanda disentangled herself and slipped from the bed. Moonlight seeped through a crack in the curtains, casting delicate shadows across the room. The man watched as Fernanda's slender figure was silhouetted against the pale light. Memories of earlier washed over him; his fingers traced her skin, so smooth and velvety. She had gripped his arms, her delicate skin pressing softly against his. Her hair had brushed his face, each strand silky, carrying a subtle fragrance. Her voice had been a soft melody, soothing to his ears. This woman was serene and astute. Amid the intrusion, rather than succumb to panic, she had pressed her lips to his, a kiss so convincing it had deceived the pursuers. Her technique was rather clumsy, only pressing her lips against his without any other movement--evidently her first kiss. Breaking the ensuing quiet, the man's voice softened from its usual sternness to a rasp tinged with all**re. "Was that your first kiss?" Chapter 2 That's Gross With deliberate movements, Fernanda pulled out a piece of clothing from her suitcase, her voice sharp and cool. "This is none of your concern. I think it's time for you to leave." All she desired at that moment was to hasten the man's departure. Barely a moment before, when he had embraced her, his fingers had brushed against her back, lingering just a moment too long. The calluses on his fingertips were coarse, betraying more wear than most. His adeptness with a knife and his swift reflexes hinted at a background that was far from ordinary. Cutting off the thought immediately, Fernanda dismissed any curiosity about his background. From below, the blare of a car horn shattered the silence. The man stood up smoothly. During their earlier intimacy, he had loosened his shirt, though his trousers remained crisply in place. He buttoned his shirt as he approached the window and casually tossed something to Fernanda. "My apologies for any discomfort caused earlier. Consider this your compensation," he said with a nod. With the graceful precision of a panther, he sprang out of the window. Fernanda approached the window, peering out into the night where, under the faint illumination of the streetlights, she observed him scale the wall effortlessly. He navigated the ledges until he merged with the shadows. She stooped to retrieve the object he had left--a sleek black card. The night's disruptions had been met with suitable compensation--a fair recompense. Fernanda pocketed the card and drew the curtains closed. The following morning, the butler approached Fernanda with a look of concern etched across his face. "Miss Morgan, I hope you managed to rest last night. There was an inspection for a burglary, which stirred quite the disturbance." She shrugged casually and muttered, "It was fine." As they drove, the butler stole glances at Fernanda through the rearview mirror. Reclined in her seat, she gazed out the window, her elegant profile cast in contemplative silence. He mused quietly to himself that she did not embody the typical country-raised youth. Her calm sophistication and graceful demeanor set her apart, enhancing her natural charm and making her an effortlessly endearing presence. After two days of travel, Fernanda stepped into the bustling streets of Esaham. The city was a teeming metropolis, alive with vibrant streets and a relentless stream of traffic. Shortly after 8 a.m., a stretch Lincoln limousine glided into the upscale estate of Dawn Villas, coming to a halt in front of a majestic three-story white villa. Stepping gracefully from the limousine, Fernanda let her eyes wander over the grandeur of the building before her. The villa, both opulent and imposing, was a testament to vast wealth. Her lips curled into a faint, almost mocking smile as she gave it a scrutinizing glance. This was her father Robert Morgan's residence. From humble beginnings, he had climbed to wealth and status with her late mother's support. After amassing his fortune, Robert had coldly cast aside her mother, choosing to revel in a relationship with his mistress. That woman--Michelle Morgan--had contributed nothing to his success, yet she now sat smugly in the seat Fernanda's mother had rightfully earned. She basked in the luxuries and respect that were never hers to claim. Worse still, Michelle had dared to flaunt her victory, parading her stolen life before Fernanda's grieving mother, a cruelty that had ultimately led to Fernanda's mother's untimely death. To the world, Michelle was seen as Robert's second wife, a symbol of grace and charm. Michelle even had the audacity to claim she was Fernanda's real mother. But Fernanda knew better. Behind the polished veneer lay the truth, raw and unforgiving. Fernanda's dark eyes momentarily hardened, a flicker of steely determination glinting within them. Her mother was no longer here to seek justice, but Fernanda vowed she would deliver it on her behalf. Just then, the villa's grand door swung open, revealing the pair responsible for the upheaval in her life. Robert stood tall and pristine, the sharp lines of his tailored suit accentuating his stature. His gold-rimmed glasses reflected the warm light, adding an air of calculated sophistication. At his side was Michelle, the very picture of elegance. Her fitted dress clung perfectly to her poised figure, exuding refinement and composure. "Fernanda, you've come back." Robert greeted warmly, a smile playing on his lips as he waved her over. "Come in." Fernanda's eyes darted downward, concealing the storm of emotions swirling within her. With a tentative step, she moved closer. Robert, with an arm encircling Michelle's waist, introduced her with a gesture. "Fernanda, this is your mother." With a casual wave toward the living room, he remarked, "And that's Erika, your sister." On the couch, Erika Morgan was engaged with the television, only looking up when Fernanda approached. Her eyes narrowed judgmentally at Fernanda's plain dress, her face contorting into a sneer. With an exaggerated eye-roll and a sarcastic tone, Erika muttered, "That country bumpkin? Dad, she's no sister of mine." Michelle approached Fernanda with a warm smile, linking her arm with Fernanda's. "Oh, Fernanda, Erika's just teasing. Pay her no mind. I've prepared breakfast for you. You must be starving. Let's have something to eat." Silently, Fernanda slipped her arm free and strode with determined steps into the dining room. Michelle paused, her smile faltering as a shadow of confusion crossed her face. She turned to Robert, her voice tinged with concern. "Robert, what's gotten into her?" He sighed, his voice a blend of empathy and resignation, "Fernanda was raised in the countryside. She's a bit unrefined, that's all. It's nothing against you, Michelle." Michelle nodded slowly, a soft smile reclaiming her features. "No worries," she murmured, her resolve firming. "I'll guide her as she settles in, teach her the essentials of elegance, and shape her into a poised young woman." Robert gave a supportive pat on her back, his expression one of appreciative assurance. In the dining room, Michelle seated herself next to Fernanda. "Fernanda, you must try this beef," she insisted, placing a tender slice onto Fernanda's plate. "It's Erika's favorite." Fernanda responded by promptly lifting the beef from her plate and dropping it into an empty plate with a clear look of disgust. "That's gross," she stated flatly, her voice void of any warmth. Chapter 3 How Could You Lie? The moment those words left Fernanda's lips, the entire table came to a standstill, their expressions a mix of shock and disbelief. Erika, her patience fraying, brought her hand down hard on the table and demanded, "Country bumpkin, what are you even saying? My mom was kind enough to offer you this beef, and you have the nerve to be rude about it?" Fernanda met their astonished looks with a mask of feigned innocence. "I was clearly referring to the beef," she said with a deliberate pause. "It's raw and quite frankly, it looks unappetizing. What else could I possibly mean?" "You..." Erika's retort faltered, caught in her throat. Admitting that she thought Fernanda was insulting Michelle was out of the question. With a slow, calculated blink, Fernanda went on, "Unless, perhaps, you think there's something even more gross on this table than the raw beef?" At this, Erika's face registered sheer astonishment, and for a split second, her voice seemed to have deserted her entirely. Not a single word could she muster. It was Michelle who broke the awkward silence, interjecting smoothly, "Fernanda, the dish you're referring to is called beef tartare. It's a renowned delicacy made from top-notch beef and a pasteurized egg, typically found in high-end dining establishments. Perhaps it's something you've not had the opportunity to try before." Her voice subtly implied that Fernanda's simpler past might not have included such refined culinary experiences. Fernanda allowed a mischievous smirk to play at the corners of her lips and replied, "Our ancestors honed an array of sophisticated recipes and techniques. They certainly didn't refine these culinary arts for us to regress to consuming raw meat as if we were lost in the wild." Michelle's expression briefly betrayed a touch of discomfort, yet she managed to sustain a polite smile, nodding her agreement somewhat rigidly. "You bring up a valid point, I'll give you that." "I agree. I'm not fond of beef tartare either," Robert added with a nod, his gaze settling on Fernanda with evident pride. "I've always preferred classic tastes myself. It seems Fernanda has inherited that from me." Fernanda offered a subdued smile, delicately wiping her fork on a napkin after attempting the beef tartare, then resumed eating with a composed demeanor, seemingly unaffected by Erika's glaring resentment. Michelle suddenly ventured a soft query. "Fernanda, which university are you attending these days? Erika is at Luminary University, one of the top schools in the country. What about you?" At this, Erika's face morphed into a self-satisfied grin. Robert's tone grew cooler as he intervened on Fernanda's behalf. "I've spoken to a few contacts back in Fernanda's hometown. Currently, she isn't enrolled in any university." Michelle's eyes went wide, her voice cutting through the silence as she blurted, "What did you just say? Fernanda isn't attending any university? That simply cannot be! What will happen when the Harpers find out? Mrs. Harper had just mentioned a few days ago that they were planning a grand welcome party for Fernanda upon her return. If they learn she's not enrolled anywhere, it could be disastrous." Robert intervened, his tone laced with irritation, cutting through Michelle's rising panic. "Enough. I will take care of Fernanda's education myself." From the corner, Erika couldn't suppress a snicker. Imagining Fernanda managing to sneak into some low-ranked school through connections was downright amusing to her. The Harper family, celebrating the arrival of what Erika considered a rural nobody, was an absurd thought. Fernanda's crude and graceless demeanor would certainly earn their disapproval the moment they saw her. Erika found Bobby Harper quite charming, but his family's insistence on honoring their promise to engage him to Fernanda and pushing Robert to reintegrate Fernanda into their circles seemed ridiculously foolish to her. She was convinced that the Harper family would never develop an affinity for someone as lacking in education as Fernanda. The mood around the table grew tense as they discussed Fernanda's academic prospects. Amidst the awkward silence, Fernanda herself reached for a napkin, dabbing at her lips gracefully. "I have already registered to take the entrance exam for Esaham University," she announced, her voice steady and clear. "Assuming all goes well, I plan to attend there in the near future." Erika was caught off guard and, for a moment, was speechless before she burst into unrestrained laughter. The idea that Esaham University, the most prestigious in the nation where seats were as coveted as gold, would allow Fernanda to take the entrance exam was laughable. Clearly, this was a lie. Robert's demeanor hardened, his eyes narrowing with a frosty glare. He furrowed his brow in disapproval and said sternly, "Fernanda, how could you lie about being granted the opportunity to take the entrance exam for Esaham University? Was lying the only lesson you picked up in your little hometown?" "Honey, calm down," Michelle interjected quickly. "Fernanda was only trying to impress you." Turning to Fernanda with a soft, maternal expression, Michelle remarked in a soothing tone, "There's no shame in skipping college, Fernanda. You don't have to pretend or feel lesser because of it. We're family here, and we don't judge you on such matters." Her words, though gentle, were saturated with disbelief, assuming Fernanda was fabricating her story. Fernanda, without a word of defense, simply pulled out her smartphone. After a few taps, she pushed it across the table towards the center. Everyone leaned in to see the display. Erika's laughter stopped abruptly as she stared at the screen. Displayed prominently was Fernanda's Esaham University entrance exam admission ticket, complete with her photo and name in bold. Snatching the phone, Erika's eyes grew wide as she inspected it repeatedly. Her anger boiling over, she tossed it away and exclaimed, "This can't be real! You edited this, didn't you?" Chapter 4 This Girl Is Something Else "This isn't a photo--it's an online document," Fernanda stated in an even tone, her voice steady and clear. "Notice the Esaham University web address at the top?" Erika was at a loss for words. Her complexion lost its color as silence enveloped her. Entry to Esaham University was notoriously difficult, achievable only through the rigorous standardized exam or by excelling in the university's specialized admission test. This test was reserved for the truly outstanding, drawing candidates from diverse disciplines and making the chance to compete a rare gem. How did Fernanda manage to secure a spot to attend the admission test? Suddenly, Robert's hand was on Fernanda's phone, his eyes scanning the text again and again. Any annoyance he felt quickly dissipated, replaced by bubbling excitement. A rich, joyful laughter escaped him as he declared, "Brilliant, Fernanda! Absolutely brilliant!" The way Fernanda managed to secure such an incredible opportunity didn't concern him. What mattered most to him was the overwhelming pride he felt, knowing she had this chance to take the exam. With a stiff smile and a voice laced with tension, Michelle replied, "Yes, well done." "What's so great about that?" Erika scoffed, her voice dripping with disdain. "It's not as if she's actually going to pass." "But it's certainly better than not being qualified to try at all, right?" Fernanda retorted smoothly. Color rushed to Erika's cheeks, her anger palpable. She slammed her fork down, the clatter echoing sharply. "I've had enough!" she declared vehemently, before storming off in a huff. After dinner, Robert and Michelle walked Fernanda to her cozy and thoughtfully prepared room. The room was airy and uncluttered, resonating with Fernanda's love for understated elegance. "Across the hall is your sister's room," Michelle explained, her voice carrying a warm undertone. "Next to yours is your elder brother's. He's often caught up with work commitments and rarely at home. Your younger brother, who's currently at a summer camp overseas, has his room beside Erika's." She continued, a smile softening her features, "If there's anything you need to make your stay more comfortable, please don't hesitate to tell me, dear." Robert watched Michelle with a look of quiet approval. "Thank you," Fernanda murmured, her eyes downcast as she spoke. "I think I'll take a shower now." At that, Robert and Michelle excused themselves, leaving Fernanda to her privacy. As she stepped under the spray, cool water washed over her, drenching her face and lending a luminous sheen to her eyes. They sparkled against the backdrop of water droplets on her lashes, enhancing the serene yet frosty allure of her features. Once out of the shower, Fernanda blow-dried her hair until it was just damp. As Fernanda from the bathroom, she dug through the suitcase and found a photo of Hiram Hammond. The photo was a solemn memorial portrait of Hiram. Though not bound to her by blood, he had nurtured her with unwavering care and affection. To Fernanda, he was her entire world, her only family. That cherished photo, a tribute to his memory, was something she couldn't afford to lose. Gazing at the kind, gentle face in the photo, Fernanda was enveloped by a surge of affection. With gentle hands, she cleaned the photograph and lovingly placed it on a side table in the room. Within the next two days, the villa had welcomed two additional guests--Michelle's nephew and niece. The man exhibited an unseemly l**tfulness, with his gaze persistently fixed on Fernanda whenever he could manage. Meanwhile, the woman had aligned herself with Erika, openly manifesting her contempt and animosity toward Fernanda through both overt and subtle jabs. Disenchanted by their presence, Fernanda chose to distance herself from the villa's stifling atmosphere. As the sun dawdled on the brink of the horizon, the evening air, warm yet prickled with tension, brushed against her. Seeking a brief escape, Fernanda wandered to a convenience store and picked up a can of cold beer. Positioned against a lamppost, she deftly popped open the can single-handedly. The refreshing chill of the beer soothed her throat as she drank. A slight tilt of her head caused the collar of her shirt to shift delicately, exposing the elegant contour of her collarbone. With an air of sophistication, her neck arched gracefully, like someone relishing a glass of champagne in an exclusive bar. Having savored the last drop, Fernanda tossed the can with a casual flick of her wrist, watching it arc smoothly into the bin with a satisfying clink. Not far off, someone hidden in the dim interior of a black sedan watched intently. Bobby, palpably impressed, turned to his companion and remarked with a mix of awe and admiration, "Cristian, this girl is something else!" Chapter 5 Attacked Cristian Reed, who was sprawling in the backseat, remained silent, his eyes firmly shut. "Wow, the girl is stunning! Check out those legs--so beautiful and flawless! Did you see her toss that can, Cristian? She's got skills that could rival yours!" Bobby's incessant babble finally pierced Cristian's reserve. With a sigh, Cristian's eyes fluttered open. Just then, the headlights from an approaching vehicle swept across his face, accentuating its angular contours and highlighting a small mole beneath his eye. Drawing out his words, Cristian replied with a lazy drawl, his voice a deep, soothing rumble laced with a trace of exhaustion, "Aren't you getting engaged soon? Isn't the eldest Morgan daughter meant to be yours?" Bobby visibly flinched at the mention, his expression contorting into one of clear distaste. "She's nothing but a stray who got lost as a child and grew up in some nowhere place. Who's to say she isn't just a goddamn ugly rural bumpkin? My friends probably see me as some unlucky fool. Cristian, you are my cousin. You should not make fun of me like they do!" Cristian merely crossed his arms, extending his long legs and settling back more comfortably without a word. The silence seemed to deepen Bobby's frustration, as if sealing his fate. Yet, as Bobby's eyes landed on the girl's striking figure under the streetlight again, his mood shifted, and a flicker of curiosity lit up his face. With a playful grin, Bobby lowered the window and leaned slightly out, his tone dripping with charm. "Hey there, gorgeous. Can I offer you a ride?" "No, thank you." Her words were crisp and frosty, cutting through the evening like a cold breeze, leaving a chill that touched both men. In the backseat, Cristian's body tensed. His eyes snapped open, his head whipping around toward the sound of the voice. That voice? It unmistakably belonged to the girl he had met in that dimly lit motel. Cristian acted with such swiftness that he seemed to blur the lines between thought and action as he swung the car door open and emerged. Fernanda mistook his approach for a mere flirtatious gesture. Without giving him another thought, she turned away and continued on her path. She had only taken a few steps when she felt a strong, unyielding grip halt her progress. She spun around, coming face-to-face with the man who had stopped her. Towering and strikingly handsome, he possessed an aura of undeniable presence. One hand was nonchalantly placed in his pocket, while the other securely grasped her arm. His piercing gaze locked with hers. "Well, if it isn't you!" Cristian muttered slowly, a hint of recognition in his voice. "Seems like we keep meeting, huh?" Fernanda's eyes flickered with surprise as she realized who he was--the man from that unforgettable night. Given that he was a dangerous fugitive, she wanted to keep her distance from him. Swiftly regaining her composure, she adopted an aloof demeanor. "I'm sorry, sir. You must be mistaken," she replied evenly. "No," Cristian responded, his voice low and steady, a slight smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "A debt of gratitude is something I never forget." His remark revealed a depth to his character. For Cristian, repaying a good deed wasn't just a courtesy--it was a principle he lived by. Meanwhile, Bobby had exited the car and now stood a short distance away, his expression one of utter bewilderment. "What's going on?" he inquired. Cristian brushed off Bobby's presence, focusing instead on holding the car door open for Fernanda with a subtle nod. Fernanda stayed rooted in place, her gaze sharp with caution. "What do you mean by that?" "I'd like to take you to dinner. Would you join me?" Cristian urged with a warm, inviting smile. It came across as a question, but Fernanda could discern from the inflection in his voice that he wasn't genuinely offering her an option to decline. Her familiarity with his nature left no room for misunderstanding. Refusing him might only provoke him to force her into the car himself. With a sigh, she gave a subdued nod. "Fine." A faint smile flickered across Cristian's face as he graciously gestured for her to enter, then smoothly took his place behind the wheel. Bobby blinked in shock, his mouth hanging open. "You've got to be kidding me, Cristian. This is incredible!" Cristian had effortlessly ensnared the alluring girl with a mere handful of words, an accomplishment Bobby found profoundly impressive. As Bobby tried the back door, he found it unexpectedly locked. "Cristian?" he inquired, a hint of confusion in his tone. Cristian commanded firmly, "Leave." Frozen in place in the brisk evening air, Bobby watched the sleek black car vanish into the shadows of the night. He was the first to spot the girl! Why had they left him behind? Inside the car, Cristian shattered the lingering silence by firing off a torrent of questions. "Are you from Esaham or Zhota?" "Zhota," she answered softly. "And your name?" "Letty Molina." "How old are you?" "Twenty-five," Fernanda replied, her voice barely above a whisper. Cristian stole a sideways glance at her, his voice laced with skepticism. "Doesn't seem like it." "Reality seldom mirrors our expectations," Fernanda replied, her tone unwavering. "Take your appearance, for instance. In that impeccable suit, you're the perfect picture of a business tycoon. Yet, you're the same fugitive I stumbled upon the other night." Cristian couldn't help but laugh, a hint of amusement in his voice. "You do have a point." Fernanda was finally no longer feigning ignorance about their past encounter. Cristian was relieved. Had she chosen to continue her charade, he had his own methods to have her drop the act. As usual, Esaham's traffic was a snarled mess. Cristian veered onto a less congested side street, hoping to evade the endless sea of cars. Breaking the silence, he suggested, "I know a cozy spot run by a Zhota native--serves excellent food. Let's head there." "Sure," she replied, her tone calm but firm. Just as Fernanda's reply hung in the air, a jarring crash echoed from behind, jolting the car forward. She was thrust back, the seatbelt gnawing into her shoulder. Cristian's gaze darted to the rearview mirror. Suddenly, a van cut sharply across their path, blocking them. On either side, vehicles converged, spilling out men brandishing grim tools, their silhouettes ominous in the dim streetlight. Without hesitation, Cristian reached into the center console, retrieving a kn*fe. "Whatever happens, keep yourself inside the car. Don't even think about stepping out," he instructed firmly, pressing her back into the seat. With a resolute nod, he went on, "I'll take care of them, and afterward, dinner's on me." Cristian wrapped up his conversation, offering Fernanda a fleeting smile that appeared untouched by the surrounding tension. Fernanda folded her arms and settled deeper into her seat, her face a mask of tranquility as she observed Cristian approach the group of armed adversaries. The scene was stark--one man facing off against a throng armed to the teeth. The odds were clearly not in his favor. Yet, as Cristian lifted his foot and dispatched two of the men to the ground with a single, silent kick, Fernanda took note of his precision and power. His technique spoke of extensive training and raw capability. The gang, incited by Cristian's defiance, rushed at him collectively. Sticks sliced through the air, each strike landing with a dense thud that echoed menace. Cristian, however, danced through the tumult with a grace that seemed almost serene. Despite their advantage in numbers, his assailants found themselves floundering to overpower him. One attacker received a blunt punch straight to the face, staggering backward and eventually collapsing against the hood of Cristian's car. As he dabbed at the bl**d dripping from his nose, the man snarled in rage. Catching sight of Fernanda inside the vehicle, a sinister idea sparked within him... ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fragrant Fiction | 55 | https://www.facebook.com/61565957015132/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679709 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567639 | 1745816685 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | His Scorned Bride Turned Out To Be Legendary | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/67179322-fb_contact-enj83_6-0110-c3-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1721275375067958&exdata=303AD0586C0A3DED7EE4E850EF5C2E4D5E7F04E10A7AEF29 | 4.3210510665256E+14 | Fragrant Fiction | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474863501_1142636920565052_3140321227397833622_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SjcJ0MpDfDYQ7kNvgFlVqWC&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYBytJV0Mn3rMTeF8nOcXhWEyzCmGIVEZHbv29Q4z9qKww&oe=67A639FA | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Rumors claimed she was an uneducated, hot-tempered bumpkin. She sneered and revealed her true identity as a renowned designer, gaming pro, celebrated artist, and business tycoon, leaving everyone stunned! ===== "We're here to escort you home, Miss Morgan." "Your parents have been tirelessly searching for you over the years. Upon discovering your whereabouts, they promptly dispatched us to ensure your return." Fernanda Morgan surveyed the men in crisply tailored suits who stood before her, he appeared to be a butler. "Moreover, the Harper family is keenly anticipating your return. You are to be engaged to Mr. Harper once you return!" "Alright then. Let's go," Fernanda agreed with a slight nod. She collected her already-packed belongings and stepped into the vehicle. The journey from the small town of Zhota to Esaham was a long one, spanning at least two days by car. As dusk enveloped the sky, they pulled into another small town. The butler located a modestly appealing motel and proposed they stay overnight. Fernanda's accommodation was at the far end of the second-floor hallway, Room 201--arguably the best room available. The butler and the rest of their group opted to stay on the lower floor. The night was unusually warm and dry, rendering the room's aging air conditioner useless. Fernanda opened the window to invite a cool breeze, causing the curtains to dance gently in the evening air. Fresh from her shower, she dimmed the lights and crawled into bed for the night. Drifting into a light sleep, she was jolted awake by a disturbance outside. A subsequent noise at the window snapped her to full alert. As she bolted upright, a shadowy figure burst through, launching itself onto her bed. The freezing touch of a bl*de hovered at her neck as a low, threatening voice growled, "Don't you dare move." Immobile, Fernanda's body clenched in fear. The faint, iron tang of bl**d lingered on the man's sleeve--a grim reminder of his dangerousness. This unmistakable hint solidified the fact: this man was no one to mess with. Outside, the commotion intensified. Shortly after, a forceful knock resonated at the door. A coarse voice demanded, "Is anyone there? Open up now!" As the voice still echoed, the kn*fe at Fernanda's neck dug in slightly deeper. The man's voice dripped with malice as he warned, "Get rid of them, or you're as good as dead." His right arm ensnared her waist, his left hand unwavering with the kn*fe at her throat. Through his firm grip and calculated movements, Fernanda realized he was deadly serious. Cornered, she knew she had to play along for the time being. "Sure." With a soft, steady voice, Fernanda reassured him. "It'll all be okay." With no answer from inside, the outsiders used a master key to unlock the door and stormed in. At the sound, the man jerked Fernanda's baggy T-shirt, pulling her down onto his lap and encircling her with his arm, forcing her to straddle him as he shifted position. Right then, the door flung open, and a stark beam of flashlight flooded the room. Fernanda let out a panicked scream, quickly bending over the man to obscure him from view. "Sweetheart, what the hell is this place? How could anyone have the audacity to barge in like that?" Acting as though she was terrified, Fernanda held onto the man, her grip firm and desperate. Her voice, usually sweet and enticing, now carried an edge of annoyance mingled with a breathless charm that was utterly captivating. Suddenly, Fernanda felt the man beneath her tense up. Seconds later, he encircled her with his arm and expertly flipped over, drawing the blanket over both their bodies. As the blanket slid, its soft whispers merged with the steady rhythm of their breaths, painting a scene of understated sensuality. Faces flushed with embarrassment, the group at the door stood stiffly, unprepared for the private display before them. Nonetheless, the couple inside the room showed no signs of halting their intimate exchange. The motel's security guard chuckled uncomfortably, "Looks like they're pretty busy... Maybe we ought to leave, huh?" One of the men brushed past the guard and entered the room with a purposeful stride. Fernanda's heartbeat skyrocketed as she heard the footsteps drawing near. Could they actually be contemplating unveiling them? A chilling bl*de pressed against her side, its pointed tip grazing her skin, sending a shiver through her already tense body. The footsteps halted next to the bed, and with a surge of courage, Fernanda leaned in closer to the man beneath her. Pulled back gently, the blanket gave way to the flashlight's piercing light, exposing a glimpse of her delicate, b*re back. In the softness of the bed, their movements continued unabated. Fernanda's lips met his in a fervent kiss, her hair cascading down to obscure his face, while his hand gently caressed her side. The subdued m**ns that slipped from their lips lent the scene an air of genuine intimacy. Abruptly, a voice erupted from beyond the room, piercing the tranquility. "Boss! Something's going down out on the street!" Instantly, the man at the bedside sprang to his feet and vanished through the door. With the door slamming behind him, Fernanda disentangled herself and slipped from the bed. Moonlight seeped through a crack in the curtains, casting delicate shadows across the room. The man watched as Fernanda's slender figure was silhouetted against the pale light. Memories of earlier washed over him; his fingers traced her skin, so smooth and velvety. She had gripped his arms, her delicate skin pressing softly against his. Her hair had brushed his face, each strand silky, carrying a subtle fragrance. Her voice had been a soft melody, soothing to his ears. This woman was serene and astute. Amid the intrusion, rather than succumb to panic, she had pressed her lips to his, a kiss so convincing it had deceived the pursuers. Her technique was rather clumsy, only pressing her lips against his without any other movement--evidently her first kiss. Breaking the ensuing quiet, the man's voice softened from its usual sternness to a rasp tinged with all**re. "Was that your first kiss?" Chapter 2 That's Gross With deliberate movements, Fernanda pulled out a piece of clothing from her suitcase, her voice sharp and cool. "This is none of your concern. I think it's time for you to leave." All she desired at that moment was to hasten the man's departure. Barely a moment before, when he had embraced her, his fingers had brushed against her back, lingering just a moment too long. The calluses on his fingertips were coarse, betraying more wear than most. His adeptness with a knife and his swift reflexes hinted at a background that was far from ordinary. Cutting off the thought immediately, Fernanda dismissed any curiosity about his background. From below, the blare of a car horn shattered the silence. The man stood up smoothly. During their earlier intimacy, he had loosened his shirt, though his trousers remained crisply in place. He buttoned his shirt as he approached the window and casually tossed something to Fernanda. "My apologies for any discomfort caused earlier. Consider this your compensation," he said with a nod. With the graceful precision of a panther, he sprang out of the window. Fernanda approached the window, peering out into the night where, under the faint illumination of the streetlights, she observed him scale the wall effortlessly. He navigated the ledges until he merged with the shadows. She stooped to retrieve the object he had left--a sleek black card. The night's disruptions had been met with suitable compensation--a fair recompense. Fernanda pocketed the card and drew the curtains closed. The following morning, the butler approached Fernanda with a look of concern etched across his face. "Miss Morgan, I hope you managed to rest last night. There was an inspection for a burglary, which stirred quite the disturbance." She shrugged casually and muttered, "It was fine." As they drove, the butler stole glances at Fernanda through the rearview mirror. Reclined in her seat, she gazed out the window, her elegant profile cast in contemplative silence. He mused quietly to himself that she did not embody the typical country-raised youth. Her calm sophistication and graceful demeanor set her apart, enhancing her natural charm and making her an effortlessly endearing presence. After two days of travel, Fernanda stepped into the bustling streets of Esaham. The city was a teeming metropolis, alive with vibrant streets and a relentless stream of traffic. Shortly after 8 a.m., a stretch Lincoln limousine glided into the upscale estate of Dawn Villas, coming to a halt in front of a majestic three-story white villa. Stepping gracefully from the limousine, Fernanda let her eyes wander over the grandeur of the building before her. The villa, both opulent and imposing, was a testament to vast wealth. Her lips curled into a faint, almost mocking smile as she gave it a scrutinizing glance. This was her father Robert Morgan's residence. From humble beginnings, he had climbed to wealth and status with her late mother's support. After amassing his fortune, Robert had coldly cast aside her mother, choosing to revel in a relationship with his mistress. That woman--Michelle Morgan--had contributed nothing to his success, yet she now sat smugly in the seat Fernanda's mother had rightfully earned. She basked in the luxuries and respect that were never hers to claim. Worse still, Michelle had dared to flaunt her victory, parading her stolen life before Fernanda's grieving mother, a cruelty that had ultimately led to Fernanda's mother's untimely death. To the world, Michelle was seen as Robert's second wife, a symbol of grace and charm. Michelle even had the audacity to claim she was Fernanda's real mother. But Fernanda knew better. Behind the polished veneer lay the truth, raw and unforgiving. Fernanda's dark eyes momentarily hardened, a flicker of steely determination glinting within them. Her mother was no longer here to seek justice, but Fernanda vowed she would deliver it on her behalf. Just then, the villa's grand door swung open, revealing the pair responsible for the upheaval in her life. Robert stood tall and pristine, the sharp lines of his tailored suit accentuating his stature. His gold-rimmed glasses reflected the warm light, adding an air of calculated sophistication. At his side was Michelle, the very picture of elegance. Her fitted dress clung perfectly to her poised figure, exuding refinement and composure. "Fernanda, you've come back." Robert greeted warmly, a smile playing on his lips as he waved her over. "Come in." Fernanda's eyes darted downward, concealing the storm of emotions swirling within her. With a tentative step, she moved closer. Robert, with an arm encircling Michelle's waist, introduced her with a gesture. "Fernanda, this is your mother." With a casual wave toward the living room, he remarked, "And that's Erika, your sister." On the couch, Erika Morgan was engaged with the television, only looking up when Fernanda approached. Her eyes narrowed judgmentally at Fernanda's plain dress, her face contorting into a sneer. With an exaggerated eye-roll and a sarcastic tone, Erika muttered, "That country bumpkin? Dad, she's no sister of mine." Michelle approached Fernanda with a warm smile, linking her arm with Fernanda's. "Oh, Fernanda, Erika's just teasing. Pay her no mind. I've prepared breakfast for you. You must be starving. Let's have something to eat." Silently, Fernanda slipped her arm free and strode with determined steps into the dining room. Michelle paused, her smile faltering as a shadow of confusion crossed her face. She turned to Robert, her voice tinged with concern. "Robert, what's gotten into her?" He sighed, his voice a blend of empathy and resignation, "Fernanda was raised in the countryside. She's a bit unrefined, that's all. It's nothing against you, Michelle." Michelle nodded slowly, a soft smile reclaiming her features. "No worries," she murmured, her resolve firming. "I'll guide her as she settles in, teach her the essentials of elegance, and shape her into a poised young woman." Robert gave a supportive pat on her back, his expression one of appreciative assurance. In the dining room, Michelle seated herself next to Fernanda. "Fernanda, you must try this beef," she insisted, placing a tender slice onto Fernanda's plate. "It's Erika's favorite." Fernanda responded by promptly lifting the beef from her plate and dropping it into an empty plate with a clear look of disgust. "That's gross," she stated flatly, her voice void of any warmth. Chapter 3 How Could You Lie? The moment those words left Fernanda's lips, the entire table came to a standstill, their expressions a mix of shock and disbelief. Erika, her patience fraying, brought her hand down hard on the table and demanded, "Country bumpkin, what are you even saying? My mom was kind enough to offer you this beef, and you have the nerve to be rude about it?" Fernanda met their astonished looks with a mask of feigned innocence. "I was clearly referring to the beef," she said with a deliberate pause. "It's raw and quite frankly, it looks unappetizing. What else could I possibly mean?" "You..." Erika's retort faltered, caught in her throat. Admitting that she thought Fernanda was insulting Michelle was out of the question. With a slow, calculated blink, Fernanda went on, "Unless, perhaps, you think there's something even more gross on this table than the raw beef?" At this, Erika's face registered sheer astonishment, and for a split second, her voice seemed to have deserted her entirely. Not a single word could she muster. It was Michelle who broke the awkward silence, interjecting smoothly, "Fernanda, the dish you're referring to is called beef tartare. It's a renowned delicacy made from top-notch beef and a pasteurized egg, typically found in high-end dining establishments. Perhaps it's something you've not had the opportunity to try before." Her voice subtly implied that Fernanda's simpler past might not have included such refined culinary experiences. Fernanda allowed a mischievous smirk to play at the corners of her lips and replied, "Our ancestors honed an array of sophisticated recipes and techniques. They certainly didn't refine these culinary arts for us to regress to consuming raw meat as if we were lost in the wild." Michelle's expression briefly betrayed a touch of discomfort, yet she managed to sustain a polite smile, nodding her agreement somewhat rigidly. "You bring up a valid point, I'll give you that." "I agree. I'm not fond of beef tartare either," Robert added with a nod, his gaze settling on Fernanda with evident pride. "I've always preferred classic tastes myself. It seems Fernanda has inherited that from me." Fernanda offered a subdued smile, delicately wiping her fork on a napkin after attempting the beef tartare, then resumed eating with a composed demeanor, seemingly unaffected by Erika's glaring resentment. Michelle suddenly ventured a soft query. "Fernanda, which university are you attending these days? Erika is at Luminary University, one of the top schools in the country. What about you?" At this, Erika's face morphed into a self-satisfied grin. Robert's tone grew cooler as he intervened on Fernanda's behalf. "I've spoken to a few contacts back in Fernanda's hometown. Currently, she isn't enrolled in any university." Michelle's eyes went wide, her voice cutting through the silence as she blurted, "What did you just say? Fernanda isn't attending any university? That simply cannot be! What will happen when the Harpers find out? Mrs. Harper had just mentioned a few days ago that they were planning a grand welcome party for Fernanda upon her return. If they learn she's not enrolled anywhere, it could be disastrous." Robert intervened, his tone laced with irritation, cutting through Michelle's rising panic. "Enough. I will take care of Fernanda's education myself." From the corner, Erika couldn't suppress a snicker. Imagining Fernanda managing to sneak into some low-ranked school through connections was downright amusing to her. The Harper family, celebrating the arrival of what Erika considered a rural nobody, was an absurd thought. Fernanda's crude and graceless demeanor would certainly earn their disapproval the moment they saw her. Erika found Bobby Harper quite charming, but his family's insistence on honoring their promise to engage him to Fernanda and pushing Robert to reintegrate Fernanda into their circles seemed ridiculously foolish to her. She was convinced that the Harper family would never develop an affinity for someone as lacking in education as Fernanda. The mood around the table grew tense as they discussed Fernanda's academic prospects. Amidst the awkward silence, Fernanda herself reached for a napkin, dabbing at her lips gracefully. "I have already registered to take the entrance exam for Esaham University," she announced, her voice steady and clear. "Assuming all goes well, I plan to attend there in the near future." Erika was caught off guard and, for a moment, was speechless before she burst into unrestrained laughter. The idea that Esaham University, the most prestigious in the nation where seats were as coveted as gold, would allow Fernanda to take the entrance exam was laughable. Clearly, this was a lie. Robert's demeanor hardened, his eyes narrowing with a frosty glare. He furrowed his brow in disapproval and said sternly, "Fernanda, how could you lie about being granted the opportunity to take the entrance exam for Esaham University? Was lying the only lesson you picked up in your little hometown?" "Honey, calm down," Michelle interjected quickly. "Fernanda was only trying to impress you." Turning to Fernanda with a soft, maternal expression, Michelle remarked in a soothing tone, "There's no shame in skipping college, Fernanda. You don't have to pretend or feel lesser because of it. We're family here, and we don't judge you on such matters." Her words, though gentle, were saturated with disbelief, assuming Fernanda was fabricating her story. Fernanda, without a word of defense, simply pulled out her smartphone. After a few taps, she pushed it across the table towards the center. Everyone leaned in to see the display. Erika's laughter stopped abruptly as she stared at the screen. Displayed prominently was Fernanda's Esaham University entrance exam admission ticket, complete with her photo and name in bold. Snatching the phone, Erika's eyes grew wide as she inspected it repeatedly. Her anger boiling over, she tossed it away and exclaimed, "This can't be real! You edited this, didn't you?" Chapter 4 This Girl Is Something Else "This isn't a photo--it's an online document," Fernanda stated in an even tone, her voice steady and clear. "Notice the Esaham University web address at the top?" Erika was at a loss for words. Her complexion lost its color as silence enveloped her. Entry to Esaham University was notoriously difficult, achievable only through the rigorous standardized exam or by excelling in the university's specialized admission test. This test was reserved for the truly outstanding, drawing candidates from diverse disciplines and making the chance to compete a rare gem. How did Fernanda manage to secure a spot to attend the admission test? Suddenly, Robert's hand was on Fernanda's phone, his eyes scanning the text again and again. Any annoyance he felt quickly dissipated, replaced by bubbling excitement. A rich, joyful laughter escaped him as he declared, "Brilliant, Fernanda! Absolutely brilliant!" The way Fernanda managed to secure such an incredible opportunity didn't concern him. What mattered most to him was the overwhelming pride he felt, knowing she had this chance to take the exam. With a stiff smile and a voice laced with tension, Michelle replied, "Yes, well done." "What's so great about that?" Erika scoffed, her voice dripping with disdain. "It's not as if she's actually going to pass." "But it's certainly better than not being qualified to try at all, right?" Fernanda retorted smoothly. Color rushed to Erika's cheeks, her anger palpable. She slammed her fork down, the clatter echoing sharply. "I've had enough!" she declared vehemently, before storming off in a huff. After dinner, Robert and Michelle walked Fernanda to her cozy and thoughtfully prepared room. The room was airy and uncluttered, resonating with Fernanda's love for understated elegance. "Across the hall is your sister's room," Michelle explained, her voice carrying a warm undertone. "Next to yours is your elder brother's. He's often caught up with work commitments and rarely at home. Your younger brother, who's currently at a summer camp overseas, has his room beside Erika's." She continued, a smile softening her features, "If there's anything you need to make your stay more comfortable, please don't hesitate to tell me, dear." Robert watched Michelle with a look of quiet approval. "Thank you," Fernanda murmured, her eyes downcast as she spoke. "I think I'll take a shower now." At that, Robert and Michelle excused themselves, leaving Fernanda to her privacy. As she stepped under the spray, cool water washed over her, drenching her face and lending a luminous sheen to her eyes. They sparkled against the backdrop of water droplets on her lashes, enhancing the serene yet frosty allure of her features. Once out of the shower, Fernanda blow-dried her hair until it was just damp. As Fernanda from the bathroom, she dug through the suitcase and found a photo of Hiram Hammond. The photo was a solemn memorial portrait of Hiram. Though not bound to her by blood, he had nurtured her with unwavering care and affection. To Fernanda, he was her entire world, her only family. That cherished photo, a tribute to his memory, was something she couldn't afford to lose. Gazing at the kind, gentle face in the photo, Fernanda was enveloped by a surge of affection. With gentle hands, she cleaned the photograph and lovingly placed it on a side table in the room. Within the next two days, the villa had welcomed two additional guests--Michelle's nephew and niece. The man exhibited an unseemly l**tfulness, with his gaze persistently fixed on Fernanda whenever he could manage. Meanwhile, the woman had aligned herself with Erika, openly manifesting her contempt and animosity toward Fernanda through both overt and subtle jabs. Disenchanted by their presence, Fernanda chose to distance herself from the villa's stifling atmosphere. As the sun dawdled on the brink of the horizon, the evening air, warm yet prickled with tension, brushed against her. Seeking a brief escape, Fernanda wandered to a convenience store and picked up a can of cold beer. Positioned against a lamppost, she deftly popped open the can single-handedly. The refreshing chill of the beer soothed her throat as she drank. A slight tilt of her head caused the collar of her shirt to shift delicately, exposing the elegant contour of her collarbone. With an air of sophistication, her neck arched gracefully, like someone relishing a glass of champagne in an exclusive bar. Having savored the last drop, Fernanda tossed the can with a casual flick of her wrist, watching it arc smoothly into the bin with a satisfying clink. Not far off, someone hidden in the dim interior of a black sedan watched intently. Bobby, palpably impressed, turned to his companion and remarked with a mix of awe and admiration, "Cristian, this girl is something else!" Chapter 5 Attacked Cristian Reed, who was sprawling in the backseat, remained silent, his eyes firmly shut. "Wow, the girl is stunning! Check out those legs--so beautiful and flawless! Did you see her toss that can, Cristian? She's got skills that could rival yours!" Bobby's incessant babble finally pierced Cristian's reserve. With a sigh, Cristian's eyes fluttered open. Just then, the headlights from an approaching vehicle swept across his face, accentuating its angular contours and highlighting a small mole beneath his eye. Drawing out his words, Cristian replied with a lazy drawl, his voice a deep, soothing rumble laced with a trace of exhaustion, "Aren't you getting engaged soon? Isn't the eldest Morgan daughter meant to be yours?" Bobby visibly flinched at the mention, his expression contorting into one of clear distaste. "She's nothing but a stray who got lost as a child and grew up in some nowhere place. Who's to say she isn't just a goddamn ugly rural bumpkin? My friends probably see me as some unlucky fool. Cristian, you are my cousin. You should not make fun of me like they do!" Cristian merely crossed his arms, extending his long legs and settling back more comfortably without a word. The silence seemed to deepen Bobby's frustration, as if sealing his fate. Yet, as Bobby's eyes landed on the girl's striking figure under the streetlight again, his mood shifted, and a flicker of curiosity lit up his face. With a playful grin, Bobby lowered the window and leaned slightly out, his tone dripping with charm. "Hey there, gorgeous. Can I offer you a ride?" "No, thank you." Her words were crisp and frosty, cutting through the evening like a cold breeze, leaving a chill that touched both men. In the backseat, Cristian's body tensed. His eyes snapped open, his head whipping around toward the sound of the voice. That voice? It unmistakably belonged to the girl he had met in that dimly lit motel. Cristian acted with such swiftness that he seemed to blur the lines between thought and action as he swung the car door open and emerged. Fernanda mistook his approach for a mere flirtatious gesture. Without giving him another thought, she turned away and continued on her path. She had only taken a few steps when she felt a strong, unyielding grip halt her progress. She spun around, coming face-to-face with the man who had stopped her. Towering and strikingly handsome, he possessed an aura of undeniable presence. One hand was nonchalantly placed in his pocket, while the other securely grasped her arm. His piercing gaze locked with hers. "Well, if it isn't you!" Cristian muttered slowly, a hint of recognition in his voice. "Seems like we keep meeting, huh?" Fernanda's eyes flickered with surprise as she realized who he was--the man from that unforgettable night. Given that he was a dangerous fugitive, she wanted to keep her distance from him. Swiftly regaining her composure, she adopted an aloof demeanor. "I'm sorry, sir. You must be mistaken," she replied evenly. "No," Cristian responded, his voice low and steady, a slight smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "A debt of gratitude is something I never forget." His remark revealed a depth to his character. For Cristian, repaying a good deed wasn't just a courtesy--it was a principle he lived by. Meanwhile, Bobby had exited the car and now stood a short distance away, his expression one of utter bewilderment. "What's going on?" he inquired. Cristian brushed off Bobby's presence, focusing instead on holding the car door open for Fernanda with a subtle nod. Fernanda stayed rooted in place, her gaze sharp with caution. "What do you mean by that?" "I'd like to take you to dinner. Would you join me?" Cristian urged with a warm, inviting smile. It came across as a question, but Fernanda could discern from the inflection in his voice that he wasn't genuinely offering her an option to decline. Her familiarity with his nature left no room for misunderstanding. Refusing him might only provoke him to force her into the car himself. With a sigh, she gave a subdued nod. "Fine." A faint smile flickered across Cristian's face as he graciously gestured for her to enter, then smoothly took his place behind the wheel. Bobby blinked in shock, his mouth hanging open. "You've got to be kidding me, Cristian. This is incredible!" Cristian had effortlessly ensnared the alluring girl with a mere handful of words, an accomplishment Bobby found profoundly impressive. As Bobby tried the back door, he found it unexpectedly locked. "Cristian?" he inquired, a hint of confusion in his tone. Cristian commanded firmly, "Leave." Frozen in place in the brisk evening air, Bobby watched the sleek black car vanish into the shadows of the night. He was the first to spot the girl! Why had they left him behind? Inside the car, Cristian shattered the lingering silence by firing off a torrent of questions. "Are you from Esaham or Zhota?" "Zhota," she answered softly. "And your name?" "Letty Molina." "How old are you?" "Twenty-five," Fernanda replied, her voice barely above a whisper. Cristian stole a sideways glance at her, his voice laced with skepticism. "Doesn't seem like it." "Reality seldom mirrors our expectations," Fernanda replied, her tone unwavering. "Take your appearance, for instance. In that impeccable suit, you're the perfect picture of a business tycoon. Yet, you're the same fugitive I stumbled upon the other night." Cristian couldn't help but laugh, a hint of amusement in his voice. "You do have a point." Fernanda was finally no longer feigning ignorance about their past encounter. Cristian was relieved. Had she chosen to continue her charade, he had his own methods to have her drop the act. As usual, Esaham's traffic was a snarled mess. Cristian veered onto a less congested side street, hoping to evade the endless sea of cars. Breaking the silence, he suggested, "I know a cozy spot run by a Zhota native--serves excellent food. Let's head there." "Sure," she replied, her tone calm but firm. Just as Fernanda's reply hung in the air, a jarring crash echoed from behind, jolting the car forward. She was thrust back, the seatbelt gnawing into her shoulder. Cristian's gaze darted to the rearview mirror. Suddenly, a van cut sharply across their path, blocking them. On either side, vehicles converged, spilling out men brandishing grim tools, their silhouettes ominous in the dim streetlight. Without hesitation, Cristian reached into the center console, retrieving a kn*fe. "Whatever happens, keep yourself inside the car. Don't even think about stepping out," he instructed firmly, pressing her back into the seat. With a resolute nod, he went on, "I'll take care of them, and afterward, dinner's on me." Cristian wrapped up his conversation, offering Fernanda a fleeting smile that appeared untouched by the surrounding tension. Fernanda folded her arms and settled deeper into her seat, her face a mask of tranquility as she observed Cristian approach the group of armed adversaries. The scene was stark--one man facing off against a throng armed to the teeth. The odds were clearly not in his favor. Yet, as Cristian lifted his foot and dispatched two of the men to the ground with a single, silent kick, Fernanda took note of his precision and power. His technique spoke of extensive training and raw capability. The gang, incited by Cristian's defiance, rushed at him collectively. Sticks sliced through the air, each strike landing with a dense thud that echoed menace. Cristian, however, danced through the tumult with a grace that seemed almost serene. Despite their advantage in numbers, his assailants found themselves floundering to overpower him. One attacker received a blunt punch straight to the face, staggering backward and eventually collapsing against the hood of Cristian's car. As he dabbed at the bl**d dripping from his nose, the man snarled in rage. Catching sight of Fernanda inside the vehicle, a sinister idea sparked within him... ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fragrant Fiction | 55 | https://www.facebook.com/61565957015132/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679683 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567636 | 1745816685 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=304554039400649&exdata=C53DCDAE4F2816FF2045C38F513B8C9D30821518F0377C2D | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475773983_1571515796870008_6789139734267733831_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=auyjoT8xCaYQ7kNvgE3nDH1&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYB5YeoP5PR5gv9r78kdcjyb9C3UdlzijUVXhl7Gzas59g&oe=67A6546C | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | After being released, her malicious stepsister threatened her with their mother's life and tried to send her to an older man. On her way to "sacrifice" herself, she unexpectedly met a mafia kingpin. She took the initiative to seduce him for a partnership. From then on, she turned the tablesโtearing apart the fake angel, slapping her stepmother, and refusing to be bullied again! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &10& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679735 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567644 | 1745816685 | 2451 | Get quote | VIDEO | Junk Removal: Starting at $69 | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473802906_1141083733672682_1394326449235278579_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Vkd4fX9Ty5UQ7kNvgHmY-ww&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYAiE4nXa723EYFSbA-DnoZWmV0_0QR2f1spmcOjAFxVNA&oe=67A62724 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hey, I'm Chris, founder of Gone With The Bin Junk Removal. For years, my team has been clearing out clutter & making spaces cleaner & more livable. ๐ We're deeply invested in the community & committed to responsible disposal & recycling. That's why we're offering junk removal for as low as $69! Proudly serving Glenn Heights, Dallas, Arlington, Irving, Grand Prairie & the surrounding areas! Schedule your free estimate. Let's talk about clearing out your clutter! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679685 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567636 | 1745816685 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | VIDEO | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=7929461117168105&exdata=167C26038CE9418345B181DD39EDAF09B0B7136FA4766486 | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475786171_1190353949165572_5388076130148538395_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tuqEO7afNssQ7kNvgE7DPIE&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYBZqUBjCg9b0-HFe8R7NDVuWROZclDPduJj9dPSPwQtsw&oe=67A64B35 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | After being released, her malicious stepsister threatened her with their mother's life and tried to send her to an older man. On her way to "sacrifice" herself, she unexpectedly met a mafia kingpin. She took the initiative to seduce him for a partnership. From then on, she turned the tablesโtearing apart the fake angel, slapping her stepmother, and refusing to be bullied again! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &10& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679651 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567632 | 1745816685 | 2451 | cdnjkfiw.com | Learn more | IMAGE | ๐Mga Anak ng Bilyonaryo๐ | https://www.cdnjkfiw.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=17755&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 3.8701676448549E+14 | Philip Spicy Reading | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475166559_1675254406760915_8639971705466473895_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dTuVKVztvREQ7kNvgHGoUiR&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYB5sHOreJKvhhzkeXDSfOFBj8oyvajcP-l6BYvYRo_agA&oe=67A632E4 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Madiing tinali ni Lorelei ang sintas ng luma niyang sapatos. Kalahating oras na lang ay magsisimula na ang klase niya ngunit hinihintay niya pa ang perang ibibigay ng kanyang Tita Agnes. Pang-huling taon na niya sa kolehiyo sa kursong business management. Gusto niya ay siya na ang mag-manage sa maliit na restaurant na iniwan ng yumao niyang ina na hawak ng Tita niya. Nagsalubong ang mga kilay niya at napasandal sa lumang sofa matapos marinig ang halinghing ng Tita niya mula sa kwarto. Sigurado siyang naroon na naman ang kinakasama nitong lalaki na si Richard. "Idiin mo, Richard!" dinig pa niyang sigaw ng Tita niya. Naiiling siyang pumikit. Maya-maya pa matatapos ang mga ito kaya naman tumayo na siya at kumatok sa pinto ng kwarto. "Tita, aalis na po ako." "Oh! Ode umalis kaโRichard!" muling hiyaw pa nito. "Iyong pera ko po," paalala niya pa rito ngunit daing at halinghing ang sagot nito. Paulit-ulit niyang kinatok ang pinto. Ang huling bigay nito ay limangdaan na pinagkasya niya ng isang linggo. Ayaw naman niyang basagin ang alkansyang baboy niya na mamiso lang ang laman. Nabitin sa ere ang pagkatok niya noong bumukas ang pinto. Niluwa no'n si Richard na pawisin, tanging basketball short ang suot, may hawak din itong libo-libong pera sa kamay. Namumutok ang mga braso nito at halos masakop ang pinto sa laki ng katawan. Mukha pa itong aburido noong tumingin sa kanya kaya napaatras siya. "Istorbo," parinig pa nito bago siya lagpasan. Napamaang siya at agad na pumasok sa kwarto. Huli niya pang nagsusuot pa lang ng t-shirt ang Tita niya. "Pera lang ang habol sa'yo ni Richard, Tita. Hiwalayan mo na iyon. Ang laki ng katawan no'n at kaya no'n ang magtrabahoโ" "Huwag kang makialam sa desisyon ko at hindi naman kita anak. Ikaw ang lumayas kung gusto mo. Bukas makalawa ay dito na titira si Richard. Mas maganda siguro kung humanap ka na ng ibang matitirahan at baka maging kaagaw pa kita sa kanya. Malaki ka na, kaya mo na ang sarili mo," pinal nitong sambit bago nagsuot ng underwear. Nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata niya, "Ginagatasan ka lang ng pera ni Richard, Titaโ" "Oh ayan, dalawang libo para matikom iyang bibig mo. Huling baon mo na iyan. Gagamitin ni Richard ang pera at magtatayo siya ng talyer." Mas lalo siyang nanlumo, "Hindi po pwede iyon. Pera ni Mama ang mga iyan. Kita sa restaurant niya, Tita. Huwag naman po kayong magpabilog kay Richard!" hindi niya mapigilang ilakas ang boses niya. Napalunok pa siya at natakot noong tumayo ito at lumapit sa kanya. Matalim na ang tingin nito. "Aba! Ano'ng pera ng Mama mo? Ilagay mo sa kokote mong matagal ng patay ang Mama mo at akin na ang restaurant na iyon. Pinag-aral at pinakain na kita. Nasa tamang edad ka na at kaya mo ng magtrabaho." Ilang beses pa nitong tinulak-tulak ang noo niya. "Hala sige, layas!" galit pa nitong sigaw bago siya itulak palabas ng pinto. Pinigil niya ang mga luha. Bandang huli ay hindi niya nakuha ang dalawang libong bigay nito. Nanghiram pa tuloy siya ng pera kay Nica. "Paano ang OJT mo? Titigil ka kailan huling taon na, Lei?" Nasapo niya ang noo at napasubsob sa mesa. Simula noong maging boyfriend ng Tita niya si Richard ay naging ganoon na ang Tita niya. "Ewan ko. Hindi ko na alam, Nica." Bumikig ang lalamunan niya sa badyang pag-iyak. Ni hindi niya pinansin ang grupong lumapit sa kanila. "Si Alicia," bulong pa sa kanya ni Nica. Si Alicia ang pinakasikat sa university nila. Mayaman, makinis, at madaming kakilala. Napasilip pa siya rito. Malaki ang ngiti nito, litaw ang naka-braces na ngipin. Ni hindi gumagalaw ang kulot na buhok na kulay blonde. Napaayos siya ng upo noong maglapag ito ng papel. "We're recruiting members for our sorority. You might want to join. Tonight is the initiation," magiliw nitong saad. Nangunot ang noo niya. Alam niyang hindi magandang sumali sa sorority ngunit noong mabasa niya ang mga benefits sa papel ay napalunok siya. "Free education and free allowance. Mayayaman lahat ng kasali at mga iilang negosyante. Nagpaparami lang kami ng miyembro. No fees, all free. Don't worry about the initiation, hindi naman iyon masakit. I would love to see both of you tonight." Kumindat pa ito bago umalis kasama ang dalawa pang alagad nito. "Maganda ang benefits nila, Lei. Solve ang problema mo kapag sumali tayo." Dumukwang ito at nilapit ang tainga sa kanya, "Tsaka alam mo ba, balita ko may kasapi silang Fraternity na puro gwapo," dagdag na bulong nito bago humagikhik. Wala siyang pakialam sa mga gwapo. Ang kagustuhan niyang makatapos ng kolehiyo ang nagtulak sa kanyang sumali. Makailang beses niya pang sinuklay ang malambot, tuwid, at maitim na hanggang balikat niyang buhok. Ginamit niya rin ang lipbalm upang malambot tingnan ang mga labi niya. Kaunting polbo lang ay sinuot na niya ang puting lumang bestida niyang abot hanggang tuhod at sandalyas na naging dirty white na. Kabado pa siya noong makarating sa hideout ng mga ito. Nasa pila na rin si Nica na agad kumaway sa kanya. Mabilis siyang lumapit. "Piliin raw natin iyong sarap sabi ni Alicia. Lahat kasi ng pumili ng hirap ay dinadala sa kabila at nakakatanggap ng hampas at palo," bulong nito. "Huh? Akala ko ba hindi masakit ang initiation nila?" "Hindi nga kapag sarap ang pinili mo. Basta, doon tayo sa turo ni Alicia. Ayokong magkapeklat, Lei." Napalunok siya at hindi mawari ang kaba sa dibdib niya. Makailang beses niya pang pinisil ang mga kamay. "Nica Fernandez!" sigaw ng lalaking tingin niya ay bouncer. Nagtaas ng kamay ang kaibigan niya bago humarap sa kanya. "Tandaan mo ang pipiliin mo, Lei. Iyon ang pipiliin ko. Magkita na lang tayo ulit bukas. Para sa pangarap, Lei!" pagpapasigla pa nito ngunit hindi niya masuklian ng ngiti. Siya na ang kasunod pagkatapos nito ngunit hindi na siya mapakali. May tatlo pang babae sa likod niya at dinig niyang pipiliin din ng mga ito ang pinapapili sa kanya ni Nica. "Lorelei Carpio!" Napaigtad siya sa malakas na sigaw ng bouncer. Muntik pa siyang madapa sa pagkataranta para lang makalapit. Tumuwid siya ng tayo. Pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin. Nangunot ang noo nito ngunit hindi nagkomento. Baka iniisip nitong bata siya sa height niyang 5'5 at balingkinitang katawan. "Sarap o hirap, Miss?" hindi nakangiting tanong nito. Napalunok siya at naumid yata ang dila pero kailangan niyang sumagot. Malaking benepisyo ang makukuha niya kapag natanggap siya sa sorority ni Alicia. "S-arap po," pikit-matang sagot niya. Inangat nito ang palad at agad na lumapit ang isa pang bouncer. "Nandiyan na ba si Phoenix?" tanong nito sa tinawag. "Kadarating lang pero nasa kwarto na." "Good. Ibigay mo 'yan sa kanya at ipaalala mong birhen 'yan," utos pa nito sa lalaki. Nangunot ang noo niya ngunit napapikit noong basta na lang siya lagyan ng blindfold sa mga mata. "B-akit po may blindfold?" kabadong tanong niya. "Hindi mo pwedeng makita ang makakasama mo. Bawal mong silipin o tanungin ang pangalan niya. Kapag ginawa mo iyon, madi-disqualify ka at hindi ka tatanggapin sa grupo," paalala pa ng bouncer na lumapit. Tinatak niya sa isip ang mga sinabi nito. Napasunod siya noong hilahin siya nito sa kung saan. Narinig niya rin ang tunog ng doorknob. Marahan pa siya nitong tinulak sa loob. Sumalubong sa kanya ang mabangong amoy ng lemon. Hindi niya mawari kung air freshener iyon o pabango. "New recruit?" tanong ng mababa at tila namamaos na boses. Nanindig pa ang mga balahibo niya sa bahagyang lamig sa boses nito. "Birhen 'yan. Ingatan mo." Nahigit niya ang hininga at kinabahan noong bitiwan na siya ng lalaki. Ramdam niya bigla ang tensyon sa paligid, maging ang mariing titig sa kanya. "I'm not gonna educate you. I hope you know why you are here and why you came here... willingly," seryosong sambit pa nito gamit ang namamaos nitong boses. Mabilis siyang tumango. Ang sabi sa kanya ay mabilis lang ang initiation kaya baka tanong nga lang iyon. "Uhm, I w-ant to finish my studies; that's why I came here," kabadong sagot niya ngunit malutong pagmumura ang narinig niya mula dito. Kasunod ay ang pagbukas ng pinto, "Inosente itong ni-recruit niyo! Get her outta here!" biglang sigaw nito sa labas. "You can't back out, Phoenix. Alam mo ang mangyayari sa kanya kapag pinaalis mo siya ngayon," madiing sagot ng kung sino. Marahas na buntong hininga ang narinig niya at malakas ding sinara ang pinto. Nagtaasan muli ang mga balahibo niya sa gulat noong humawak ang may kagaspangan nitong palad sa braso niya. "I hope you won't regret coming here," mabigat nitong bulong. Nanlamig siya noong umikot ang malaking braso nito sa bewang niya. Sa tantiya niya ay malaki din ang katawan nito lalo na noong lumapat ang balikat niya sa malapad nitong dibdib. Napaatras pa siya noong maramdaman ang daliri nitong binababa ang strap ng kanyang bestida. "A-nong gagawin mo?" Humakbang ito na kinaatras niya. Mahina siyang napasigaw sa pagbagsak niya sa kama. Gulat pa siya sa malaking katawan na biglang umibabaw sa kanya. Kumalabog ng husto ang puso nita. Sakop na sakop ng malaking katawan nito ang katawan niya. "S-andali!" Sinubukan niyang pigilan ang dibdib nito kahit hindi niya nakikita ngunit hinuli nito ang mga kamay niya at parehong pininid sa kama gamit ang isang palad nito. Bumigat ang paghinga niya lalo na noong sumiksik sa looban ng bestida niya ang malaking palad nito. "You should not have come here, Miss. Now you left me no choice but to take you," mabigat na bulong nito bago lumapat ang mga basang labi sa kanyang leeg. Lalo siyang nanlamig matapos matanto ang nangyayari. Hindi siya nakakilos. Ang naglalakabay nitong mainit na palad at ang malaking katawan nito sa itaas niya ay sapat na upang mangilid ang mga luha niya. "H-uwag po," nanginig pa ang boses niya. Marahas na bumuntong hininga ang lalaki, "You chose this. I tried my best to help you. The least thing I can do... is to be gentle," tila nahihirapang bulong nito. Napalunok siya kahit pa unti-unti nitong naalis ang mga saplot niya. Niyakap siya ng lamig ng aircon ngunit natakpan sa init ng malaking katawan nitong nasa itaas niya. Ang kabog ng dibdib niya ay walang kasing lakas sa pinaghalong kaba at kung ano man ang pinaparamdam nito sa kanya lalo noong dumausdos ito pababa... sa pagitan ng mga hita niya. Nanginig ang mga hita niya noong maramdaman ang mainit nitong paghinga't bibig nitong dumampi doon. Pinagpawisan siya nang malagkit kasabay ng kaba. Tanging impit na ungol at daing ang naibulalas niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang bibig nito doon. Napapabalikwas ang bewang niya ngunit hindi ito masipa. Para siyang na-estatwa noong magtagal ito doon hanggang sa mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa mga labi niya. Hinihingal pa siya sa paggapang nito muli sa itaas niya, pinaghiwalay ang mga hita niya, at pinwesto ang malaking katawan doon. Hindi siya nakaprotesta, naumid ang dila niya at hindi mahanap ang boses niya. Sunod na lang niyang namalayan ay ang pagtulo ng luha niya sa hapdi matapos mag-isa ang katawan nila. Namilipit siya sa sakit sa bawat galaw nito. Tila napunit na nito lahat ng nasa loob niya at kahit bagalan pa nito ay hiyaw ang kumakawala sa bibig niya. Pinirmi pa nito ang bewang niya. Nawalan na rin ng lakas ang mga kamay niya na kahit binitiwan nito ay hindi siya nakakilos para itulak ito. Namimigat ang paghinga niya at napapa-igik sa bawat madiing galaw nito sa loob niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang malaking katawan nitong gumagalaw sa kanyang itaas. Ni hindi niya alam kung paanong natapos ang pangyayaring iyon. Ang alam niya lang ay nakuha ng isang estrangherong lalaki ang puri niya. Paggising niya ay nananakit ang katawan niya. Takot pa siyang alisin ang blindfold ngunit kusa iyong nalaglag. Namulatan niya ang tahimik na kwarto, walang bakas na may nakasama siya ngunit ang dugo sa kobre kama ay patunay na wala na sa kanya ang iniingatan niya. Napasubsob siya sa kanyang tuhod at napahagulhol. Masyado siyang nagpadalos-dalos sa desisyon niya! Dapat ay inalam niya muna kung ano'ng klaseng sarap ang sinasabi ng mga ito! Kahit hirap maglakad ay pinilit niya ang sariling magbihis at umalis sa lugar na iyon. Wala na rin naman ang mga bouncer. Kahit si Nica ay hindi niya mahagilap. Sa sobrang pagod niya ay hindi na niya pinansin ang boyfriend ng Tita niya na nasa sala. Diretso siyang kwarto at binagsak ang katawan doon. Ang masama, nilagnat pa siya at napanaginipan ng ilang beses ang nangyari! Tatlong araw din siyang hindi nakapasok. Para siyang lutang na naglalakad noong pumasok na sa eskwela. Natulala pa siya sa nakangiti niyang kaibigan. "Bayad na ang tuition fee nating dalawa. Ang galing! May allowance pa, Lei!" Hagikhik nito bago pinakita ang cheque na may malaking halagang nakasulat. Napalunok siya. Ito na iyon. Ito na ang kapalit ng pagsali nila sa Sorority. Dapat bang kalimutan na lang niya ang nangyari sa kanila ng lalaki? "Ang balita ko ay mga Fraternity leader ang mga lalaking iyon, Lei. Hindi ko rin nakilala ang sa'kin," kwento pa ni Nica sa kanya. "H-indi ka ba umiyak? O nasaktan? Ako kasi pakiramdam ko nahati ang katawan ko," mahinang sambit niya. Namula ang mga pisngi nito, "Hindi ko una iyon kaya... sakto lang ang sakit." Napaawang ang mga labi niya sa kaibigan. Hindi pa mag-sink in sa kanya iyon. Wala naman siyang karapatan na husgahan ito kaya tumango na lang siya. "Wala bang meeting ang Sorority ngayon? Gusto kong magtanong kay Alicia. Baka pwede ko ng makita man lang iyong Phoenix na nakasama ko," imbis ay liko niya sa usapan. "Hindi tayo natanggap doon, Lei." "A-no? P-aanong hindi? Pero bayad na ang tuition fee base na rin sa benefits nila." Umiling ito, "Bayad iyon sa'tin, Lei. Hindi tayo kasapi ng grupo nila. Hindi tayo tinanggap." Para siyang nabingi sa narinig. Kumuyom ang kamao niya. Ang ibig sabihin ay inalay lang sila sa mga Fraternity leader na iyon. Gusto niyang magdamdam at ibalik ang perang natanggap ngunit hindi niya magawa lalo na noong mas maghigpit sa pera ang Tita Agnes niya. Naka-survive siya ng halos dalawang buwan sa allowance na bigay ng grupo. May natira pa ngunit hindi sasapat iyon kaya muli siyang kumakatok sa kwarto ng Tita niya. "Tita, hihingi po sana ako ng allowanceโ" Nabitin sa ere ang kamay niya at napatingala kay Richard noong buksan nito ang kwarto. Sumandal pa ito at humalukipkip. Napaatras siya noong bigla siya nitong pasadahan ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Nagtagal pa ang mga titig nito sa mga dibdib niya kaya nayakap niya ang sarili. "B-akit ka nandito? N-asaan si Tita Agnes?" Ngumisi ito at mas niluwangan ang pinto, "Dito na ako nakatira. May binili lang ang Tita mo. Kalahating oras pa iyon sa bayan. Baka gusto mong paligayahin muna kita." Napasinghap siya sa takot at umatras "Manyak!" galit niyang sigaw dito ngunit pilit nitong inabot ang siko niya at hinihila siya papasok sa kwarto. "Mabilis lang, Lei. Hindi malalaman ng Tita mo. Tayong dalawa langโ" "Bitiwan mo ko! Ayoko sa'yo!" Malakas niya itong sinampal. Nabitiwan siya nito at sinalo ang pisnging sinampal niya. "Punyeta ka, Lorelei! Bakit mo sinampal si Richard?!" biglang sigaw ng Tita niya mula sa likod kaya natulos siya sa kinatatayuan.p Nanginig siya sa kaba lalo na sa nanlilisik na tingin ng Tita niya. "T-ita, kasiโ" "Lumayas kang Punyeta ka! Palamunin ka na nga lang hindi ka pa marunong rumespeto!" Namilog ang mga mata niya noong bigla na lang siya nitong hilahin sa buhok at kaladkarin sa labas ng bahay. "T-ita, nagkakamali kayo! Sinubukan niya akong dalhin sa kwartoโ" "Wala akong pakialam! Napakalandi mo at pati boyfriend ko inaakit mo!" sigaw nito bago siya tinulak sa labas ng pinto. Muntik na siyang sumubsob sa lupa kun'di siya nakabalanse. Malakas pa nitong sinarado ang pinto ngunit bumalik para lang itapon sa pagmumukha niya ang iilang damit. "Lumayas ka at huwag kang babalik dito! Hindi ko kailangan ng malanding pamangkin!" sobrang lakas na sigaw nito na nakapagpalabas sa mga kapitbahay nila. Hiyang-hiya siya noong magbulungan ang mga iyon. Nayakap na lang niya ang mga damit at ang alkansyang baboy niyang tinapon nito sa kanyang paanan. Nagbagsakan ang mga luha niya. Gusto niyang ipaglaban na bahay iyon ng Mama niya ngunit alam niyang hindi na makikinig ang tiyahin niya. Tinago na lang niya ang mukha sa mga damit na hawak at mabilis na nagtawag ng tricycle. Nagpunta siya kila Nica at maging ito ay gigil na gigil sa tiyahin niya at kay Richard matapos niyang magkwento. "Ipabarangay mo, Lei. Wala siyang karapatan sa bahay na iyon. Sa'yo iyon! Pati ang negosyo ng Mama mo, sa'yo iyon! Pinagkaitan ka niya, lahat ng pera ng Mama mo siya ang nagwaldas. Hmp! Kumukulo ang dugo ko sa Tita Agnes mo!" Umakto pa itong manunugod ngunit pinigilan niya sa siko at umiling dito. "H-uwag na, Nica. Hindi ko na rin naman gugustuhing bumalik doon lalo na kung naroon si Richard." "Pero paano ka? Saan ka titira? Paano ang pag-aaral mo? Patapos na tayo, Lei. Bayad na rin ang tuition fee mo." Bumagsak ang tingin niya sa sahig at nanlabo ang mga mata. Hindi niya rin alam kung paano malalagpasan iyon pero pinilit niyang maghanap ng trabaho at apartment na maliit. Sakto lang sa kanya ngunit pagod na pagod nga lang siya bilang waitress ng eatery. Makailang beses tuloy siyang nakatulog sa klase at ang huli ay nahuli pa siya ng lalaking matandang professor niya. "Miss Carpio, alam mong bawal matulog sa klase ko." Napalunok siya at hindi mapigilan ang mga pumipikit na mga mata, "S-orry, Sir. Hindi na po mauulit." Umismid ito at lumayo ngunit noong makita siya na muling pumikit ay galit na siya nitong pinalabas. Nanghihina tuloy siyang napakapit sa pader ng hallway. Naghabol ng paghinga at pakiramdam niya ay umiikot ang paligid niya. Isang hakbang pa ay alam niyang sinakop na siya ng dilim. Noong magising ay nasa tabi na niya si Nica na mukhang kinabahan. Mabilis pa itong umalalay noong pilitin niyang umupo. "Ano'ng nangyari? Tsaka bakit ako nasa clinic, Nica?" Natameme ito ngunit nangilid ang luha sa gilid ng mga mata. Binugso tuloy siya ng kaba at napatitig dito. "B-akit, Nica?" Suminghot ito, "B-untis ka, Lei." Tila nawalan siya ng paghinga sa narinig mula dito. Napalunok siya at nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata. "Hindi gumamit ng proteksyon ang nakasama mo sa initiation, Lei. Binuntis ka niya," sobrang hinang sambit nito. Bumagsak ang luha niya at nanginginig ang kamay na dumapo sa impis niyang tiyan. "Patakaran ng Fraternity nila na gumamit ng proteksyon, pero dahil buntis ka... sigurado akong hindi siya gumamit no'n," patuloy pa nitong paliwanag ngunit naba-blangko na ang isip niya lalo't hindi na niya alam ang sunod na gagawin sa buhay niya. "P-aano ko siya mahahanap, Nica? Paano na ako? Hindi ko pa kaya." Tuloy - tuloy na naglandas ang mga luha niya habang inaalala ang pangalan ng lalaki. "Phoenix. Tama, Phoenix ang pangalan niya, Nica. Hanapin na'tin. Itanong na'tin kay Alicia," pagsusumamo niya sa kaibigan ngunit umiling ito. "Phoenix is just a code name, Lei. Sigurado akong hindi rin siya kilala ni Alicia lalo na kung isa siya sa mga leader," sagot nito na nagpabagsak sa mga balikat niya. "Tingin ko, sinadya niyang buntisin ka," muling sambit nito na nagpakuyom sa kamao niya. FIVE YEARS LATER Para siyang pinutulan ng pakpak dahil sa nangyaring iyon sa buhay niya. Wala siyang choice noon kun'di tumigil sa pag-aaral at magpokus sa trabaho para may pera pagkapanganak niya. Sinubukan naman niyang hanapin ang lalaki, pati nga si Alicia ay ginulo niya ngunit bigla na lang itong naglaho na parang bula. Pati ang kaibigan niyang si Nica ay bigla ring nawala at hindi alam kung saan napunta kaya natakot siyang maghaluglog pa ng impormasyon. Ang tanging nalaman niya ay leader ng Alpha Omega Fraternity ang lalaking nakakuha sa pagkabirhen niya. Limang taon na ang lumipas ngunit hindi niya talaga makakalimutan ang nangyaring iyon lalo't dalawang supling ang pabaon sa kanya ng lalaki. "Mama, wait ka namin mamaya. Promise mo bibili po tayo ng toys?" Kumurap-kurap pa sa kanya ang biluging mga mata ng anak niyang babaeng si Odessy. Marahan siyang lumuhod at inayos ang pagkaka-pigtail ng buhok nito. "Promise! Huwag kang lalayo kay Achi ah? Makinig kay teacher," habilin niya dito bago marahang hinila din palapit ang anak niyang lalaking si Achilles. "Mama, iyong book. Isa na lang bilhin mo po, share na lang kami ni Ody," marahang paalala sa kanya ni Achilles. Pilit siyang ngumiti sa mga ito. Parehong nasa daycare ang dalawa. Pinipilit niyang maibigay lahat ng pangangailangan nila pero sobrang hirap lalo't hindi siya tapos ng kolehiyo at hindi makahanap ng trabahong mataas ang pasahod. "Hindi pwede, Achi. Kailangan tig-isa kayo. Doon kayo sasagot. Ako ng bahala. Bantayan mo ang kapatid mo. Baka makipag-away." Ginulo niya pa ang buhok ito at marahang kinurot ang hindi kalakihang pisngi. "Pwede naman ako sa papel lang sasagot, Mama," pilit nito na inilingan niya. Ayaw niya ng ganoon. Hindi niya ipagkakait ang magandang edukasyon sa mga anak niya. Hindi hangga't nabubuhay siya. "Si Mama na bahala. Ubusin niyo baon niyo. Okii?" Malawak na ngumiti si Ody sa kanya at humawak sa braso ng kapatid. Si Achi man ay pilit na ngumiti. "Mama, ingat!" sabay pang sigaw ng dalawa bago maglakad papasok sa classroom. Pinigilan niya ang naninikip na dibdib matapos tumama sa liwanag ng araw ang mga mata ng mga ito at masilayan kung paanong naging kayumanggi ang mga itim na mga mata ng mga ito. Ilang beses na niyang hinanap sa mga lalaki ang ganoong klase ng mata. Maitim kapag walang araw ngunit kulay kayumanggi kapag nasinagan. Hindi ganoon ang mga mata niya kaya sigurado siyang namana ng dalawa iyon sa mga ama ng mga ito. Hindi rin siya naniniwalang sinadya siyang buntisin ng lalaking iyon dahil hanggang ngayon, walang nagpapakilala para akuin ang mga anak niya. Bumuga siya ng hangin at agad na nagtungo sa opisina ng abogadong amo niya. Ngunit masamang balita ang bumungad sa kanya. "I'm really sorry, Lei. Ipapasara na ang firm. Sa bahay na muna magtatrabaho ang asawa ko at ako na muna ang sekretarya niya. Pasensya ka na. Huling sahod mo na 'to." Nilapit pa ni Misis Alvarez ang sobre sa kanya. Napalunok siya at napatitig doon. Dalawang taon na siyang sekretarya ni Mr. Alvarez at hindi naman lingid sa kaalamam niyang pabagsak na ang firm nito. Nilunok na lang niya ang bikig sa lalamunan niya. Sigurado siyang mahihirapan na naman siyang maghanap ng trabaho. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Umikot na rin sa isip niya ang mga bayarin niya. Simula sa renta sa bahay, sa kuryente, allowance ng kambal, at mga bayarin sa eskwela. "W-ala po ba kayong kilala na... pwede kong lipatan, Misis Alvarez?" Bumuntong hininga ang Ginang, "Tatawagan ko ang kakilala ko, Hija. Itatanong ko kung may alam siyang naghahanap ng sekretarya pero hindi ako nangangako. Tatawagan na lang kita." Bagsak ang balikat na umalis siya doon. Halos hindi siya makalunok matapos bilangin ang iilang libong sahod niya para sa buwan na iyon. Tubig nga lang ang binili niya sa convenience store habang nagtitingin - tingin sa diyaryo. Kahit ano'ng trabaho papatusin na niya kaysa walang trabaho sa loob ng ilang buwan. "Tanggal na naman?! Pang ilan na 'yan ngayong buwan. Ano bang gusto niya? Single? Walang single na babae ang papatol sa gusto ni Mr. Montanier โFine, Eman. Ako na ang maghahanap ng bago niyang sekretarya. Kainis!" Nagpantig ang tainga niya sa narinig at mabilis na napaangat ng tingin sa Ginang na aburidong binaba ang hawak na cellphone. Mabilis siyang tumayo noong akma itong lalabas sa convenience store. Nagulat ito noong pigilan niya sa braso. "Bakit, Hija?" Kumunot ang noo nito sa kanya. Sa tantiya niya ay nasa edad forty-five na ito base na rin sa iilang litaw na puting buhok. "N-aghahanap po kayo ng sekretarya?" kabadong tanong niya. Literal na pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Sa kaba niya ay nabitiwan niya ang braso nito. "May asawa ka?" Mabilis siyang umiling, "Wala po!" Tumango ito at nilahad ang kamay kaya mabilis niyang nilagay doon ang resume niya. Mabilis nitong pinasadahan ang papel bago pinasok sa bag nito. "Tanggap ka na. Sumama ka sa'kin." Walang pagdadalawang isip siyang sumama sa Ginang. Imbis na sa kumpanya ay sa malaki at modernong bahay siya dinala. Sa isang exclusive subdivision iyon. Babasagin ang dingding at kumikinang ang mga mamahaling mwebles ng bahay. Kulay abo at puti ang bahay kaya sigurado siyang lalaki ang magiging amo niya. "Ako si Melia, Hija. Pinaka-sekretarya ni Sir Hector. Bukod sa'kin, may isa pa siyang sekretarya, si Eman. Pareho kaming sa kumpanya at kailangan pa ng isa pang sekretarya ni Sir Hector. On-call at kung pwede ay stay-in." Natigilan siya sa sinabi nito, "Stay-in po?" Hindi pwede sa kanya ang trabahong ganoon lalo na kung hindi pwedeng dalhin ang mga anak niya. "Bawal ba, Hija? Kaya tinanong kita kung may asawa ka. Madalas na magtrabaho sa bahay si Hector. Workholic at umaabot ng madaling araw. Kailangan na may magremind sa kanya sa schedule at dapat niyang pirmahan. Hindi naman madalas na stay-in pero paglalaanan na kita ng kwarto dito. Wala ka naman din sigurong anak di ba? Gusto niya ay single, walang extra baggage at kaya ang trabaho. Sana naman ikaw na ang huli at magtatagal dito sa bahay niya," patuloy na paliwanag nito. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Kung ganoon hindi niya pwedeng sabihin na may kambal siyang anak. "Maglipat ka na ng iilang gamit mo. Pwede kang bumalik bukas ng umaga para pag-usapan ang sahod mo. Nasa event pa si Sir Hector at madaling araw pa babalik. Lahat ng gamit dito pwede mong gamitin. Kung masipag ka, linisin mo na rin, may dagdag sahod naman. Isabay mo na rin ang kwarto niya." "Hindi po ba nakakatakot si Sir Hector?" Natigil ito sa tanong niya. Pagkaraan ay tinuro ang malaking portrait sa sala. Sinundan niya iyon ng tingin. Nagtaasaan ang mga balahibo niya sa klase ng tingin nito sa camera. Galit maging ang magkasalubong nitong makapal na kilay. Walang ngiti ang manipis na labi at mabalbas na panga. Halata ring matigas ang panga nito. At ang ilong, sobrang tangos! Maging ang buhok nitong nakasuklay palikod ay kumikinang sa larawan. Higit sa lahat, litaw ang matipunong dibdib nitong may makapal na balahibo. Sa larawan ay seryoso itong nag-aayos sa relong pambisig. "He's Hector Montanier and he's a perfectionist. So please, beware. Huwag kang gumawa ng bagay na ikakagalit niya kung ayaw mong mawalan agad ng trabaho, Hija," madiing paalala nito kaya napalunok siya. Kaya niya ba? Kaya niya bang pagsilbihan ang lalaking sa larawan pa lang ay mukhang papatay na? Paano pa sa personal? Baka hindi na siya makahinga kapag nakaharap ito. "Gusto ka niyang makausap." Gulat pa siya noong ilahad ni Miss Melia ang cellphone sa kanya. Nanginginig ang kamay niyang tinanggap iyon at nilagay sa tainga niya. Dinig niya ang mahinang musika sa background ngunit mas dinig niya ang mabibigat nitong paghinga. "Your name?" swabe at malamig ang boses nito kaya nahigit niya ang paghinga. "L-orelei Carpio po, Sir." Mahina ngunit marahas na paghinga ang narinig niya mula dito. "Lorelei, hmm," namamaos na sambit nito sa pangalan niya at hindi niya alam kung bakit naghatid iyon ng kakaibang init sa kaibuturan niya. Mabilis niyang binalik ang cellphone kay Miss Melia. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya at hindi kayang kausapin ang bagong boss niya. "B-abalik na lang po ako bukas," tarantang paalam niya. Kahit hindi pa ito um-oo ay lumabas na siya ng bahay na iyon. May mali sa pakiramdam niya. Bakit ganoon? Bakit pakiramdam niya buong boses nito ang humagod sa katawan niya? Iniisip niya pa kung narinig na ba niya iyon noon, pamilyar ngunit hindi niya maalala. "Lorelei, hmm." Muling umulit sa isipan niya ang pagtawag nito sa kanya. Naipagdikit niya ang mga hita lalo't tila namasa ang nasa pagitan ng mga iyon. Bumigat ang paghinga niya. Parang ayaw na niyang tanggapin ang trabaho lalo na kung araw - araw niyang makakasalamuha si Hector Montanier. Tulala tuloy siya noong sunduin ang kambal. Dinala niya pa sa malapit na bilihan ng laruan para na rin makalimutan niya ang pagtawag ni Sir Hector sa kanya. "Itong teddy bear na lang, Mama. Kapag barbie, ako lang ang maglalaro, kapag car naman, si Achi lang. Pero itong bear, pwede kaming share, Mama!" Masiglang tinaas pa ni Ody ang maliit na puting teddy bear. Nahabag siya sa mga ito. Hindi man lang niya maibili ng kahit tig-isang laruan. Hindi man lang niya mapakain sa sikat na fastfood ang mga anak. Mabilis siyang tumango ngunit umiwas ng tingin noong mapansin ang paninitig ni Achi sa kanya. Binayaran na lang niya ang teddy bear para makauwi na sila. Akala niya ay nakaligtas na siya sa mapanuring titig ng anak ngunit hindi. "Mama, iyong book. Kailangan na raw bilhin. Isa na lang, Mama. Kay Ody na lang. Kung hindi pwede, sa susunod na lang po ako mag-aral," kalmadong pagkausap ni Achi sa kanya. Parang pinilipit ang puso niya. Hindi niya hahayaan na mangyari iyon! Hindi deserve ng mga anak niya na maranasan ang nangyari sa kanya. "Hindi, Achi. Bibilhin natin bukas iyon. May bago na akong trabaho." Pinisil niya pa muli ang pisngi nito. Namula nga iyon lalo na't sobrang puti ng dalawa. Ang balak tuloy niyang pagtanggi na sa trabaho ay naudlot. Mas kailangan niya pala iyon. Bahala na kung ano'ng klaseng tao si Sir Hector, basta siya, trabaho lang ang gusto niya. Kinabukasan ay kinausap niya ang mga ito na gagabihin siya. Ayaw niyang iwanan pero hindi niya pwedeng isama. Kung malaki ang sahod niya ay kukuha siya ng bantay para sa mga ito. Kabado siyang bumalik sa malaking bahay. Sa harap pa lang ng pinto ay kumakalabog na ang dibdib niya. Kita na niya roon ang mamahaling sport car na wala kahapon. Nanginginig tuloy ang kamay niyang i-input ang code na pinadala pa sa mensahe ni Miss Melia upang mabuksan niya ang pinto. Pagbukas ay tumambad sa kanya ang pares ng mamahaling itim na sapatos. Pinulot niya iyon upang maitabi. Ngunit nabaling ang atensyon niya sa mahinang hilik sa sala. Kinakabahan siyang lumapit. Tumingkayad para lang masilip ang bagong boss niyang mahimbing ang tulog sa sofa. Halos hindi nga ito magkasya doon sa laki ng katawan. Ang isang binti nito ay nasa sahig habang ang isa ay nasa arm rest. Unan nito ang namumutok na braso at higit sa lahat ay bukas ang suot nitong puting longsleeve kaya't malaya niyang nasilayan ang makapal na balahibo sa matipuno nitong dibdib. Napalunok siya at imbis na lumiko ay umakyat ang tingin niya sa awang nitong mga labi. Namumula at nakasilip pa ang pantay-pantay na puting ngipin nito. Sa totoo lang, para itong modelo ng brief at toothpaste na lumabas sa magazine. Pati panga ay naninigas at sigurado siyang hindi basta-basta ang alaga nito sa ibaba. Ano bang pinag-iisip niya?! "Are you done checking me out, Miss?" namamaos pang bigkas nito bigla kaya napasinghap siya. Nabitin sa ere ang paghinga niya at namilog ang mga mata noong magkatitigan sila. Inaantok pa ang itim nitong mga mata at sobrang haba ng mga pilikmata kaya lalo siyang hindi nakapagsalita. "Close your mouth. Your lips look so delectable," inaantok nitong bigkas muli ngunit iba ang dating ng boses sa kanya kaya nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Ang boses nito ay parang kagagaling sa nakakapagod na ehersisyo sa kama. Magaspang na namamaos. "Close them... please. I might kiss you if you keep drooling on me. Do you want me... to take you here?" biglang tanong nito kaya namula lalo ang mga pisngi niya. Para siyang naeskandalo at hindi na makatingin dito ngunit nahuli niya ang pag-angat ng gilid ng labi nito. Hindi iyon ngiti kun'di maliit na ngisi. Lumitaw pa sa kanang gilid ng labi nito ang hindi kalalimang dimple. "Just kidding. Let's talk inside my office," bawi nito bago biglang bumangon. Mabilis siyang umiwas at napayuko noong basta na lang ito nag-alis ng butones ng longsleeve nito at swabe iyong hinubad. "Do I smell liquor?" mabigat na tanong nito kaya lang ay ayaw niyang lumingon dito kaya nanatili ang titig niya sa sahig. "I'm asking you. Amoy alak ba ako, Lorelei?" halos paos na naman ang boses nito kaya napapikit siya nang mariin. Iba talaga ang hagod ng boses nito sa katawan niya. Lahat ng balahibo niya ay nagtataasan at pati puson niya ay nakikiliti. Napalunok siya noong maramdaman ang paglapit nito. Pagmulat pa niya ay mabalahibong paa ang nakita niya sa harap ng mga paa niya. "N-o, Sir. H-indi po kayo amoy alak," kabadong sagot niya noong akma siya nitong hahawakan. Pag-angat ng tingin niya ay seryoso itong naninitig sa kanya. Salubong ang kilay. Hindi niya nga maitutok ang tingin sa mukha nito lalo't nakabalandra sa harap niya ang hubad nitong katawan. Bumigat ang paghinga niya at gusto na lang pindutin ang matitigas nitong muscles. "In my office," may awtoridad na nitong utos bago tumalikod. Napabuga siya ng hangin. Napapaypay sa sarili at hindi maiwasang manghina. Parang naubos ang lakas niya dito. Sinulyapan niya na lang ang matipuno nitong likod na pumasok sa isang pinto. Huminga siya nang malalim nang ilang beses at binalik ang mga sapatos sa sahig bago sumunod. Nakasandal na ito sa swivel chair at mukhang hinihintay siya. Nahuli niya agad ang mariing titig nito. "Here, Lorelei," malalim na sambit nito at marahang tinipa ang daliri nito sa mesa. Tahimik siyang lumapit kahit nahihiya. Na-conscious siya sa paninitig nito at pakiramdam niya ay hubad na siya sa isip nito. "I might require you to work 24/7, so make sure you don't have any extra baggage to attend to. Don't worry, I'll pay you triple or name your price," seryosong saad nito matapos iabot sa kanya ang blankong cheque na may pirma na nito. Napatitig siya doon ngunit hindi inasahan ang pagtayo nito at paglapit sa likod niya. Muli siyang naestatwa matapos maramdaman ang init ng paghinga nito sa bandang tainga at leeg niya. Hindi pa siya nakakilos noong lumapat sa bewang niya ang mainit at malaking palad nito. "S-ir," kabado niyang bigkas. "Single?" imbis ay tanong nito kaya mabilis siyang tumango. "Good. Birhen?" sunod na tanong nito kaya nanlaki ang mga mata niya. Hindi siya makasagot. Sasabihin ba niyang may anak na siya at kambal pa? Baka hindi siya nito tanggapin! "Y-es, Sir," pagsisinungaling niya. Marahas itong huminga na tila nahihirapan at nagpipigil. Napaangat nang bahagya ang balikat niya noong tumama doon ang matangos nitong ilong na tila inaamoy siya. Nakiliti pa siya sa mabalbas nitong pangang na humagod sa balat niya. "Perfect for me," halos dumikit pa ang labi nito sa paos nitong bulong kasabay ng pagdiin ng palad nito sa kanyang bewang na tila gusto na siyang sunggaban. Hindi niya alam na kanina pa niya pigil ang paghinga kung hindi lang ito lumayo. "Ikukuha kita ng dress. We'll attend an event," pinal na sambit nito kaya namilog ang mga mata niya. "Po? Sir, hindi po pwedeโ" Mas namilog ang mga niya noong tumama sa mga labi niya ang hintuturo nito upang patigilan siya. "Shhh. Sasama ka. You're now my secretary. Kung nasaan ako, doon ka." madiing sagot nito na akala mo ay hindi iyon big deal. Hindi siya makareklamo. Paglabas ng opisina nito ay gusto niyang ibalik ang cheque. Tinawagan niya rin si Miss Melia. "Hindi ka pwedeng umatras, Lorelei. Lagyan mo limang milyon iyang cheque niya para makabawi ka kung gusto mo. Kumpara sa mga nauna sa'yo, mas pabor si Sir Hector sa'yo. Mag-enjoy ka na lang sa event, Hija." Napirmi ang mga labi niya. Dapat pala pinag-isipan niyang mabuti. Napilitan tuloy siyang mag-ayos. Hindi pa siya kumportable sa baby blue cocktail dress na inorder nito. Yukong-yuko siya noong titigan nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya matapos masulyapan ang madiing titig nito. Para tuloy siyang hindi makahinga sa paninitig nito. Pakiramdam niya ay hinuhubaran na siya nito sa isip pa lang. "Chin up. You look... gorgeous," mahinang papuri nito. Sinubukan nitong hawakan ang bewang niya ngunit umiwas siya. Hilaw siyang ngumiti. "Alis na po tayo para agad makabalik, Sir." Nauna pa siya sa harap ng sasakyan nito. Nanliliit ang tingin nito noong pagbuksan siya ng pinto. Mali ba na umiwas dito? Boss niya ito at mali na magustuhan siya nito. Umikot ito sa driver seat noong makaupo na siya. Namroblema pa siya paano aayusin ang seatbelt ngunit nahigit niya ang hininga noong ito mismo ang umagaw sa seatbelt niya at nag-ayos no'n. Nasamyo niya tuloy ang matapang nitong pabango na may halong lemon. Akala pa niya ay ang air freshener pero hindi, amoy lemon talaga ito at masarap sa ilong. Maliit itong nangunguso noong paandarin ang sasakyan. Umiiwas siya ng tingin dito. Kumakalabog ang dibdib niya ngayong nasa isang sasakyan lang sila. Kinipkip niya pa ang bag sa mga hantad niyang hita. "How old are you, Lorelei?" biglang tanong nito na muntik magpatalon sa kanya sa upuan. "T-wenty five, Sir." "Hm. Never been touched? Never been kissed? And of course, never... Am I right?" senswal at bulgar nitong tanong. Tumiim bagang siya. Alam na niya ang kalibre nito kung bakit gusto nito ng Birhen. Sigurado siyang marami na rin itong naikama at delikado siya kung hindi siya mag-iingat. "I'm not comfortable with tbose questions, Sir," pag-amin niya. Hindi ito kumibo. Nasilip niya ang pagsasalubong ng kilay nito. Nakasandal na nga ang siko nito sa bintana at pinaglalaruan ng mga daliri nito ang ibabang labi nito. Isang kamay lang ang gamit nitong pagdrive. Nakarolyo ang asul na manggas ng longsleeve at ang lakas manampal ng kayamanan ng mamahaling relo nito. "Would you like to pretend to be my girlfriend?" biglang tanong nito sa kawalan. "Po?" Umigting ang panga nito, "My ex will be there with her new boytoy. Ayoko talagang magpunta na mag-isa, but I have to show up. It's business related. Ipapakilala kitang bagong girlfriend ko. Don't worry, I'll pay you for this," paliwanag nito. "Pero, Sirโ" "Just this once, Kitty. After this, you can be just my plain secretary." Napakurap siya at napalinga pa sa backseat kung sino ang tinawag nitong Kitty. "Cute, Kitten," nangingising sambit nito sa reaksyon niya. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Walanghiya! Siya pala ang pusa! Wala rin siyang nagawa noong pagdating nila sa event ay ito mismo ang nag-ayos sa braso niya pakapit sa braso nito. "Just stay beside me, Kitty. Smile as if you are head over heels for me," nakangising paalala nito. Sa dami ng mga bigating tao ay naging peke ang ngiti niya. Sa isang pabilog silang mesa napunta at naupo. Ramdam niya agad ang titig ng isang babae sa kanya na tila gusto siyang patumbahin. "Oh gosh, you got a new girl, Hector. I'm happy for you, Hijo. Hindi sana magloko katulad ng nauna," ani ng isang Ginang na bobo kay Sir Hector. Tumabingi ang ngiti niya habang ang babaeng nakatitig sa kanya ay umirap. Humilig pa ito sa braso ng lalaking katabi. "We should go home early, Babe. Bawal magpuyat ang buntis," dinig niyang bulong nito sa lalaki. Ramdam niya ang paninigas ng katawan ni Hector at kahit nakangiti ito sa mga kausap ay pansin naman niya ang panaka-nakang pag-igting ng panga nito. "Alejandro and I are having a baby boy, Mrs. Sarmiento," dinig niyang sagot ng babae matapos itong tanungin sa pinagbubuntis. Hindi na nga niya ito nilingon bagkus ay natutok ang titig niya kay Hector na naging sunod-sunod ang inom ng alak. Hindi siya nakatiis at inagaw ang brandy na hawak nito at ininom iyon. "What are you doing?" bulong na tanong nito. "Hindi ka pwedeng malasing. Magda-drive ka pa," madiing bulong niya pabalik. Lumapit ito at nagtaasan ang mga balahibo niya noong dumikit ang ilong nito sa leeg niya. "My Kitty is concern," namamaos nitong bulong kasabay pa ng pagdapo ng mainit nitong palad sa hita niya. Ginalaw niya ang hita ngunit dumiin ang kapit nito. Wala tuloy sa sariling napainom siya ng alak. "Crizaa, come back here!" Nabaling ang atensyon niya sa lalaking Alejandro yata ang pangalan. Tinatawag nito ang babaeng masama ang titig sa kanya na nag-walk out ngayon lang. Doon lang nawala sa hita niya ang palad ni Hector. Lumagok pa ito ng alak bago tumayo. "Comfort room," paalam nito pero ang titig ay nasa babaeng papalayo. Hindi niya alam kung bakit nadismaya siyang sinundan nito ang babae. Umiwas na lang siya ng tingin at tahimik na uminom. "Ngayon lang kita nakita, Hija. Gaano na kayo katagal ni Hector? Anim na buwan pa lang naman kasi silang hiwalay ni Crizaa," baling sa kanya ng Ginang kanina. Hilaw siyang napangiti, "Three months po," pagsisinungaling niya. Napatango ito. Mabuti na lang at hindi na ito nagtanong muli dahil hindi na niya alam ang isasagot. Nakuha niyang makaubos ng alak ay hindi na bumalik si Hector. Nahihilo na nga siya noong magpunta sa parking lot para doon ito hintayin. Saktong kapapadala niya ng mensahe sa kapitbahay niyang si Ria para tingnan ang kambal noong mamataan si Hector. Napatuwid siya ng tayo noong makita na itong papalapit. Halatang galit kaya hindi na siya nagtanong. Agad na lang siyang pumasok sa sasakyan noong patunugin nito. Maging sa biyahe ay ramdam niya ang galit nito sa hindi malamang dahilan. Madiin ang hawak nito sa manibela. Isa lang ang sigurado niya. Nakausap nito si Crizaa at tiyak na nabigo ito lalo't noong pagdating nila sa bahay nito ay kitang-kita niya ang bumagsak na luha sa gilid ng mga mata nito. Nahabag siya dito, "Sirโ" "Go home, or if you want, you can sleep in one of the guestrooms. Thank you for today, Lorelei," pagtataboy nito sa kanya. Hindi niya alam kung dahil lang sa kalasingan kaya hindi niya ito maiwan. Naaawa siya rito. Agad siyang kumuha ng tissue, lumuhod sa upuan at inabot ang pisngi nito. Pareho pa silang natigilan noong hawakan nito ang kamay niya. "Don't. I'm not weak," pamimilit nito. Naamoy niya ang brandy sa hininga nito at sa malamang ay pareho lang silang may tama ng alak. Napalunok siya noong matitigan ang mga mata nitong dumilim. Balewala niyang pinunasan muli ang pisngi nito ngunit muli nitong pinigilan ang kamay niya. "S-irโ" "If you keep doing that, sa kama tayo babagsak. Umuwi ka bago pa magbago ang isip ko at ipinid ka sa kama," pagbabanta nito. May choice siya, pinapatakas siya nito pero ang katawan niya ay ayaw kumilos. Baka dahil lasing siya. "Pagbilang ko ng lima, lumabas ka na ng sasakyan. I have no mercy when it comes to bed, Kitten," mabigat na bulong nito. Nanuyo ang lalamunan niya at mas lalong hindi nakakilos. "One," pagsisimula nito, nagsimula rin ang mainit nitong palad na umakyat sa hita niya. "Two, get out, Kitty," sobrang paos na sambit na nito habang ang kamay ay nahanap ang garter ng underwear niya. "P-ero, Sirโ" "Five. Pagmumura pa nito bago hatakin ang bewang niya at siilin siya ng halik. Mabilis nitong hinila ang bewang niya at pinaupo siya sa kandungan nito. Nahatak niya ang longsleeve nito matapos nitong ipasok ang dila sa bibig niya habang ang palad nito ay nahatak paalis ang underwear niya. Nahanap ng palad nito ang pagkababae niya at diniin ang daliri doon na kinasinghap niya. Hindi siya makasabay sa halik nito. Naliliyo siya maging sa paghagod ng mga daliri nito sa pagkababae niya. Nanigas ang mga tuhod niya sa kiliti sa puson niya at pamamasa. Hindi siya makahinga nang maayos. Inayos ng isang palad nito ang mga hita niya at pinwesto sa bawat gilid nito. Marahan itong dumukwang at halos isandal siya sa manibela masiil lang siya ng halik muli. Tuluyan na siyang hindi nakasagot ng halik matapos naging mabilis ang hagod ng mga daliri nito sa kanyang ibaba. Napapasinghap siya at ang maiksing katinuhan sa utak niya ay nasakop na ng impluwensya ng alak. "Ahh!" mahinang halinghing niya noong bumaba ang mga labi nito sa panga niya. "I'm giving you another chance to run. Run, Lorelei," udyok na bulong nito kahit pa binababa na nito ang zipper ng dress na suot niya. Napapikit siya. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya sa sobrang init. Bumakas sa mukha niya ang bahagyang ngiwi noong dumausdos papasok ang isang daliri nito. "Not running away? Baka di ka na makalakad bukas. I'm telling you, I'm big," paos at mabigat muli nitong bulong na tila nagtitimpi. Hindi niya alam ngunit lalo siyang namasa sa boses nito. Doon nga lang nag-sink sa kanya na kapag natuloy sila, malalaman nitong hindi na siya Birhen. Mabilis siyang napamulat sa naisip. Balak niya sana itong itulak ngunit paghigit sa damit nito ang nagawa niya noong dumagdag ang daliri nito sa loob niya at sunod-sunod na umulos. "Lintik" hingal niyang pagmumura. Paano pa siya tatakbo kung ang titig nito sa kanya ay nanlalapa? Maalab at alam niyang hindi na ito mapipigilan. Nagawa nitong alisin ang bestida niya. Nailiyad niya pa ang dibdib ngunit agad na sinakop ng mainit nitong bibig ang isa at halos ubusin nito. Nahatak niya ang braso nito upang doon kumuha ng balanse. hubad na siya lahat habang ito ay kumpleto pa ang suot. Pati ang relo sa bisig nito ay naroon pa. "Uhhhh, S-ir!" hiyaw niya noong lalong bumilis ang mga daliri nito sa loob niya. Hindi niya una iyon pero may hapdi pa rin sa kabila ng sensasyong nararamdaman niya. Bumalik tuloy ang alaala niya kung paano nabuo ang kambal niyang anak. Kagaya ni Sir Hector ang lalaki, may kalakihan ang katawan. Ang pinagkaiba lang ay may rahas ang kilos ni Sir Hector. Naitaas niya ang tuhod noong mamilipit sa sarap ang puson niya. Mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa bibig niya matapos maramdaman ang pag-abot niya sa rurok. Hindi tumigil ang mga daliri nito sa pag-ulos ngunit pinakawalan ng bibig nito ang dibdib niya. Naghahabol siya ng hininga noong nilayuan nito ang leeg niya at dibdib. Wala sa sariling nakagat niya pa ang ibabang labi sa paghugot nito sa mga daliri nito. Gulantang nga lang siyang makitang sisubo nito ang mga iyon. "Sir!" pigil niya dito ngunit wala na, napapikit na ito sa pagsubo no'n. Agad pang ngumisi at bahagyang pumasada ang dila sa ibabang labi nito na tila hindi pa ito kuntento. "Addictive," sobrang paos na sambit nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Alam niyang may tama rin ito sa alak kaya nasabi iyon pero hiyang-hiya siya! Hindi pa siya nakababawi noong marinig ang pagbukas nito sa pinto. Napalunok siya at napakapit sa mga balikat nito noong buhatin siya sa ganoong ayos. Inikot pa nito ang mga hita niya sa bewang nito. "You're Birhen. This will hurt. Hindi pwede sa sasakyan. Saka na... kapag sanay ka na," namimigat nitong bulong na nagpatigil sa paghinga niya. Kumalabog ang dibdib niya. Dumiin ang kapit sa balikat nito noong pumasok ito sa bahay at iakyat siya sa kwarto. Marahan pa siya nitong binagsak sa kama ngunit mabilis na lumuhod sa sahig. Sumisinghap pa lang siya ng paghinga ay pinag-hiwalay na nito ang mga hita niya at agad na sinubsob ang bibig nito sa pagkababae niya. "Sir! Uhโohh!" Pinatigas agad nito ang dila at tinukso-tukso siya. Alam na alam nito ang gagawin. Nawala na nga sa isip niyang hindi pa siya nakapag-shave pero kung hagurin ng dila nito ang ibaba niya ay tila paboritong pagkain nito iyon. "Ahh!" Nailiyad niya ang katawan at naitaas ang bewang na mabilis nitong hinila upang mas maidiin ang bibig nito doon. Ang ngipin nito ay sumasabay kaya halos mahila na niya nang buo ang bedsheet sa nararamdamang init. Pinagpawisan na siya kahit pa malakas ang aircon sa kwarto nito. Hindi yata ito tumigil hangga't hindi naririnig ang mahabang ungol niya, senyales na muli niyang naabot ang langit. Hindi niya maisara ang bibig sa pagsimot nito doon. Kahit noong tumayo na ito ay nanghihina siya at hindi maisara ang mga hita niya. Maliit niyang minulat ang mga mata. Huli niya ang mainit nitong titig sa katawan niya habang nagtatanggal ng kasuotan. Pati mamahaling relo nito ay basta lang nito tinapon sa sofa. Ora mimso noong mahubad nito ang mamahaling boxer short ay gumapang ito sa itaas niya. "Ibuka ang iyong mga binti nang mas malawak, Kitty," senswal nitong utos. Kumakalabog lalo ang dibdib niya at nanunuyo ang lalamunan kahit pa sa hita pa lang niya dumikit ang naghuhumigting nitong sandata. Palad na mismo nito ang humagod sa mga hita niya at mas pinaghiwalay ang mga iyon. Napapikit siya noong tuluyang tumama ang sandata nito sa kaselanan niya. Paulit-ulit na humagod na tila tinutukso siya. Pati ang ilong at bibig nito ay panaka-nakang humalik sa leeg at panga niya na tila dinidistract siya nito. "Sir~" hirap niyang bulong at napakapit sa matigas nitong braso noong maramdaman ang dulo ng sandata nito. Tama ito! Malaki ito at duda siyang kakasya sa kanya. Baka muli lang siyang mapunit nito! Ang balak niyang pagtulak sana dito ay nauwi sa pagkapit sa braso nito noong pilitin nito ang pagpasok. Sumigid ang sakit sa kanya at halos magdugo ang labi sa pagkagat niya. Iyon ang pangalawang beses niya pero sa tagal na siguro ng panahon ay pakiramdam niya, unang beses pa lang niya iyon. Kita niyang umigting ang panga nito at tumalim ang tingin. Kinabahan siyang baka nahuli na siya nito pero nahanap nito ang mga palad niya at parehong pininid sa itaas ng ulo niya. Pinagsalikop nito ang mga kamay nila bago sinagad ang pagpasok na kinahiyaw niya. "Ahh!" Hindi niya ito mapalo, hindi niya mabawi ang mga nakapinid na kamay. Pinuno naman nito ng halik ang mukha niya. "Soon, the pain will fade away, Kitty," panunuyong bulong nito. Hindi na niya makilala ang sariling paghinga. Hinayaan siya nitong kumalma ngunit hindi rin ito nakatiis at nagsimulang umulos nang mabagal. Dinidiinan na lang niya ang kapit sa mga kamay nito kapag sinasagad nito nang buo sa loob niya. Dinig niya ang magaspang nitong ungol at tila nahihirapan ding bumayo sa loob niya. Para itong nagtitimpi sa mabagal na paggalaw. "H-indi ka gumamit ng goma, Sir," wala sa sariling sambit niya. "Doesn't matter. I will do withdrawal, don't worry," pagpapakalma nito. Ilang beses siyang lumunok. Ang balakang niya ay napapataas noong bumilis nang bahagya ang galaw nito. Malinaw sa pandinig niya ang pagsusumpungan ng mga kaselanan nila. Nangangalay ang mga hita niya sa pagkakahiwalay at halos lumubog sa kama sa laki ng katawan nito. "Ow!" malakas niyang hiyaw na hindi niya alam kung ilang beses niya naisigaw noong dumoble ang bilis nito. Para itomg may hinahabol at hindi magkamayaw. Ang kama nito ay tumutunog kasabay ng tunog ng kanilang mga katawan. Para itong nawala sa sarili at nagsunod-sunod ang pagbayo sa loob niya. Naghalo ang pawis nila at maging mga ungol. Napuno ang kwarto ng mga hiyaw niya. Nanghihina na siya noong maramdamang malapit na siya. Nagmadali rin ito at sunod sunod ang ulos hanggang sa magkapanabay silang mapaungol. Pinakawalan nito ang mga kamay niya kasabay ng mainit na likidong bumuhos sa loob niya. Parang tumigil ang tibok ng puso niya. Sa loob nito pinutok! Kinabahan siya. Hinihingal itong bumagsak sa itaas niya. "Sleep, Kitty," inaantok pa nitong bulong. Nataranta siya at gusto itong itulak ngunit napakalaki nito. Sumiksik pa ito sa dibdib niya at wala yatang pakialam kahit nasa loob pa niya ang sandata nito! "Sir, uuwi po ako," pilit niyang gising at tulak dito ngunit humigpit ang yakap nito sa bewang niya. "Later, stay still. Huwag kang gagalaw. Huwag mong gisingin," halos bulong na lang na sambit nito. Nanlamig siya sa tinutukoy nito. Pati tuloy paghinga niya ay napigilan niya huwag lang magising ang sandata nito. Para siyang timang na naghintay na humiwalay ito ngunit hindi niya rin namalayang nakatulog na siya. Paggising ay sikat ng araw ang tumama sa mga mata niya. Nasilaw siya at nahirapang magmulat ng mga mata. Masakit ang katawan niya, partikular ang pagkababae niya at mga hita. Doon nga lang din rumehistro sa kanya ang nangyari kagabi. "Punyeta!" napamura siya matapos matantong umaga na pero naroon pa rin siya sa kwarto ni Sir Hector. Mabilis niyang nilingon ang katabi ngunit wala na ito doon. Hindi na nga niya maalala kung ano'ng oras ito umalis sa itaas niya. Hihinga na sana siya nang maluwag kung hindi lang naramdaman ang madiing titig sa kanya na tumatagos sa balat niya. Napalunok siya at unti-unting napatingin sa harap niya. Sumikdo ang dibdib niya at nahila ang kumot. Naroon sa paanan niya si Sir Hector, nakaayos na ng business suit, nakapamulsa habang may hawak na baso ng brandy. Pinaghalong madiin at malamig na titig ang natanggap niya dito at noong liningon nito ang kama na walang bahid ng dugo, alam na niya agad ang nasa isip nito. "S-ir, m-agpapaliwanag po ako," sobrang kabang sambit niya lalo't tumalim ang titig nito at umigting ang panga. | Philip Spicy Reading | 83301 | https://www.facebook.com/61561349855790/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679633 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567631 | 1745816685 | 2451 | discover.mollurahairtransplant.com | Learn More | DCO | Free Consultation | {{product.description}} | https://discover.mollurahairtransplant.com/hair-transplant-sm | 1.017344995789E+14 | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474742213_1283854512693177_6207329649037280923_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i-N_Hq0gloEQ7kNvgEVfacC&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYB8IL4gWjHUnF_hg30EBRKUizOgilD520jeMLCvaJPS1g&oe=67A65518 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Turn Back Time on Hair Loss! โฐ Reclaim your confidence with a FUE Hair Transplant at Mollura Hair Restoration. Dr. Anthony Mollura has performed more than 7,000 hair restoration procedures over the last 25 years. Book your FREE Hair Consultation Today! | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | 54 | https://www.facebook.com/molluramedical/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679553 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567626 | 1745816685 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465455127_521949030832073_3185631787244419887_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4L0EaqLGcEgQ7kNvgFW5vek&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYAGY4yuXfhjTKl5uuTVu56UyAAtCO-i6cOwqAAg-MAwGg&oe=67A654A7 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679743 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567645 | 1745816685 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Quote: Starting at $59 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474060166_1330236698109906_7085573860794928411_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wn24fOUoqqgQ7kNvgGpahnX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYAJbj_EhlWJrblONvgocYbCJuNkjBKKt5b0UpuwAH9ovQ&oe=67A652FF | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679591 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567629 | 1745816685 | 2451 | wwwedb.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | At six years old, I accidentally killed my parents. For the punishment I, an alpha female, became a slave in my own house.. My wolf's abilities were bounded, twiceโa crippling blow that left me vulnerable. As if I were nothing more than property, my brother sold me to a ruthless alpha as part of some clan contract. The rumour I've heard about him that nine fiancee has been killed by him. Then, I discovered that this ruthless alpha, the one who now owned me, was my mate ... | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475465197_1287996222547217_4426051746419933474_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Sp3Kdz6sNekQ7kNvgF7hnDD&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYAXB0qehsS4hsK48KaSKvQKutmWXHoeUVmtoLu9jWe0CA&oe=67A63827 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | "Where is she?" I hear the Beta scream. I groan and rise to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket before heading over. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don't make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times. "Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office." Beta Kyle spits at me. I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If only I could find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. But I didn't need another week locked up with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. "We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Don't you understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!" I don't answer, It's a trap, a ploy to provoke me into saying something that would justify punishment. I keep my eyes lowered, avoiding his gaze. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. He was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn't mess around and he had the largest pack. "He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!" We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He grabs my shoulders, his nails digging into my skin as he turns me around and kicks me into the office. "Useless Wolf." He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean against it, observing the already clean office. It looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don't quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. "Is this the way you greet all Alphas?" His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. "I'm sorry." I whisper, getting to my feet. "I...I thought I was alone." I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. "Come forward." He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey wil kill me. I step around the corner, doing as I'm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. "You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?" I nod, though I couldn't tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. "I would prefer it if you spoke to me." He growls, "I'm not in the mood to play games." "Yes." I whisper. I couldn't help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? "Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me." "I..." I hated the question. "You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It's rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?" His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact."My Wolf abilities were bound," I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn't interested in that part. He leans forward, I could feel him staring at me, "Why would someone do that?" If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. "It was a punishment." I whisper. It wasn't far from the entire truth. There's a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn't tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me "Neah, what are you doing in my office?" He turns to the crimson eyed man. "I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane." Crap, it's him. My brother spins around, hand poised to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. "I wouldn't do that if I were you."Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He is taller than my brother, more muscly too. "Neah," My name rolls off of his tongue, "was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested." What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. "Go and get Beta Kyle." Alpha Trey seethes. "Tell him our guest is here." I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. "Beta Kyle," I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. "Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you." He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. "You're lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't see sunlight for a few days." Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn't speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn't last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. "Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating." I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. "Neah is your sister, correct?" Alpha Dane questions my brother. "She is." Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. "Why do you treat her like trash?" Straight to the point, my brother wouldn't like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn't know what to do. I couldn't move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. "Neah was responsible for our parents' death." Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. "Responsible how?" Alpha Dane's voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. "She served them Wolfsbane." Don't make a sound. Don't make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. "You poisoned your parents?" "I was six." I splutter. "I just made them lemonade." My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. "Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old." "A six year old should know the difference between plants." Alpha Trey snaps "Sounds to me like she was set up." Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of me. "You weren't there, Alpha Dane." My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. "I didn't ask you here to talk about my slave!" Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha's he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha's, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. "You're right and now I have a few things to mull over." "I thought we agreed." My brother exclaims "Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out." The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. "What the heck did you say to him?" My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. "N...nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny." "Did you tell him?" Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. "WELL?" My brother yells when I don't immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. "But I didn't say it was you." I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. "If you have ruined this, you won't see daylight again." He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. "Pleaseโฆ." I beg. "He was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him." My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull... "Alpha Dane, I thought you had left." Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. "I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?" "As I said," my brother holds his ground, "She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves." "You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!" Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. "If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?" Both Alpha Trey and Beta Kyle hold their tongues. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. I see those crimson eyes land on my swollen face. "I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey." Alpha Dane speaks up again. "We have already agreed on terms." "Well, I'm adding one. And if you don't agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don't want that." "I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?" Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. "You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal." Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? "Deal." Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn't take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. "I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow." He reaches a hand out and cups my face, "Ensure you have everything packed." He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. "If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about." He struts out, slamming the door behind him. After Dane leaves, my brother grabs me by the collar. "You think you're going to have a good life if you follow Alpha Dane out of here? Don't be naive!" He continues in a vicious voice. "He's the coldest man in the world, he's killed nine of his mates, I'm waiting to see what happens to you!" | New world publications | 3796 | https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679696 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/9/25, 5:37 AM | 1738567636 | 1749465469 | 2451 | mindway.app | Learn More | DCO | Chronic Overthinking Test ๐ | {{product.description}} | https://mindway.app/start?qz=mw1 | 2.1357182184276E+14 | Mindway | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471641235_1312069063270437_9000915967974871235_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BIHeSfEemY0Q7kNvgEdBg_R&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYC96Z81pcMlMy4tA8lddnw8RHUz9Jxrd9T8x-5LqFNL7A&oe=67A62C0D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | โจ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ Stop overthinking and start living today โจ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ ๐ฏ Boost confidence: Develop strategies for better decision making and self-esteem ๐ซ Eliminate negative thoughts: Learn how to identify and reduce toxic thought patterns โ Live in the present moment: Become calm, happy, and trust your intuition | Mindway | 19606 | https://www.facebook.com/61555945144541/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679698 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567636 | 1745816685 | 2451 | mindway.app | Learn more | IMAGE | Stop overthinking and start living | https://mindway.app/start?qz=mw1 | 2.1494665502781E+14 | Your Personal Coach Sophia | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/472069302_623036330286878_1645137253071832700_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MeWMPl5hPP0Q7kNvgF26TBn&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYBmk1CXs_1kZ5fNFg2qPMvJ8g1_P6MwZbvlP5kPhhN7tg&oe=67A65BFA | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | โจ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ Stop overthinking and start living today โจ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ ๐ฏ Boost confidence: Develop strategies for better decision making and self-esteem ๐ซ Eliminate negative thoughts: Learn how to identify and reduce toxic thought patterns โ Live in the present moment: Become calm, happy, and trust your intuition | Your Personal Coach Sophia | 1671 | https://www.facebook.com/61555143686071/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679704 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567637 | 1745816685 | 2451 | freeleaf.com | Shop now | IMAGE | $20 OFF over $99๐ฅ | Free Shipping all web๐ | https://www.freeleaf.com/collections/new-in?sort_by=vitality-cabin-iphone-case,vitality-cabin-sweatshirt,vitality-cabin-washed-sweatshirt,vitality-cabin-back-printed-washed-hoodie,vitality-cabin-washed-long-sleeve-top,vitality-cabin-raglan-long-sleeve-top,vitality-cabin-back-printed-hoodie,vitality-cabin-hat&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=ad&utm_campaign=new-in&utm_content=Iris | 4.1076901212671E+14 | Free Leaf | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/467445789_450403577729030_1974501395590704422_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pVpw1sNOCm0Q7kNvgE6u7nF&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYA1micAJHFMbYaQbuuVRG-lggLw0FetJISipPQGDIHJaA&oe=67A630DD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Vitality Cabin for Plant lover๐ Who says nature and fantasy can't be combined?๐ซถ | Free Leaf | 1306 | https://www.facebook.com/61566347965636/ | 0 | SHOP_NOW | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679687 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567636 | 1745816685 | 2451 | kosstom.com | Shop Now | CAROUSEL | Wear Art, Not Just a Hat | A masterpiece on your head. | https://kosstom.com/en-us/products/eugenia-in-black?_pos=2&_sid=431d41c28&_ss=r&variant=42330379223212_pos=2&_sid=431d41c28&_ss=r&variant=42331097727148 | 1.0470698854553E+14 | Kosstom | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475645899_1292885961983454_672095985673590361_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JhbM_wjZaewQ7kNvgG8M3RP&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYBA2pb0oyPgHPPRe4TjSbPTOKdaEAOxrHTsDmYVI-j1ow&oe=67A64CD0 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | A masterpiece on your head. | Kosstom | 62 | https://www.facebook.com/kosstomhat/ | 0 | SHOP_NOW | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679669 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/30/25, 12:30 PM | 1738567634 | 1748626234 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=304554039400649&exdata=C53DCDAE4F2816FF4F0DB9494FE25E236BA62E881FEBF59F | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475771185_969250088420764_3695209505496307635_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OzRsG2va7IQQ7kNvgGsOBEV&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYD8ZFVXFgGIa_UbZonvwGdwi4IWJwkl-Rr6k_x2b5LDNA&oe=67A6386E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | After being released, her malicious stepsister threatened her with their mother's life and tried to send her to an older man. On her way to "sacrifice" herself, she unexpectedly met a mafia kingpin. She took the initiative to seduce him for a partnership. From then on, she turned the tablesโtearing apart the fake angel, slapping her stepmother, and refusing to be bullied again! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &10& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679587 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567628 | 1745816684 | 2451 | le.vshred.com | Learn more | VIDEO | 1-Minute Quiz will Tell your Body Type & Best Diet | https://le.vshred.com/sp/survey/survey-ga?ad_channel=facebook&utm_medium=cpc-kendago | 8.0111363998541E+14 | V Shred | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474643099_1118470366536791_3463844901667706707_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cHeYjoYsg3gQ7kNvgEyvycO&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYCe6WHXVyWOcWLispoBD67WziKENADgTjeQz_o7OEa20g&oe=67A63EEC | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | V Shred | 8901499 | https://www.facebook.com/thevinsanityshred/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679672 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567634 | 1745816684 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=7929461117168105&exdata=167C26038CE9418384D7FF7381A1EE8E2857F9D2706B0E79 | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475441381_958421495871427_5271099885683248213_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bOxF_DLG8cUQ7kNvgGk-qf6&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYD5BbR2e5d5M7EW6snuqaIBbTCA_vjChHTnYuZsBiaJuQ&oe=67A637BC | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | After being released, her malicious stepsister threatened her with their mother's life and tried to send her to an older man. On her way to "sacrifice" herself, she unexpectedly met a mafia kingpin. She took the initiative to seduce him for a partnership. From then on, she turned the tablesโtearing apart the fake angel, slapping her stepmother, and refusing to be bullied again! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &10& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679676 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567635 | 1745816684 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=7929461117168105&exdata=167C26038CE94183390206BF9C80B87A5AEB0DAB70592406 | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475483904_521176693745843_4715012198020433147_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hwwV579SeU0Q7kNvgGpzAsy&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYAPuQN3NBUHGDVF38ITBObqAig-WdMPQmc0zjcWQBAFdA&oe=67A624F2 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | After being released, her malicious stepsister threatened her with their mother's life and tried to send her to an older man. On her way to "sacrifice" herself, she unexpectedly met a mafia kingpin. She took the initiative to seduce him for a partnership. From then on, she turned the tablesโtearing apart the fake angel, slapping her stepmother, and refusing to be bullied again! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &10& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679665 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567633 | 1745816684 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=304554039400649&exdata=C53DCDAE4F2816FF7A4B5BD086C33529B97B55B430356003 | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475771914_1396975507958035_4159569769266316099_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=n70zzUcnkH4Q7kNvgH5H3Nm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYDQ55XxSEdWqivPHLROVHHZ2eMqJCjRsZkejE76MieJ9A&oe=67A64F5E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | After being released, her malicious stepsister threatened her with their mother's life and tried to send her to an older man. On her way to "sacrifice" herself, she unexpectedly met a mafia kingpin. She took the initiative to seduce him for a partnership. From then on, she turned the tablesโtearing apart the fake angel, slapping her stepmother, and refusing to be bullied again! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &10& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679650 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567632 | 1745816684 | 2451 | www.cdnjkfiw.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐Mga Anak ng Bilyonaryo๐ | https://www.cdnjkfiw.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=17755&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 3.8701676448549E+14 | Philip Spicy Reading | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475276113_1330990347941441_9092160226003563755_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xEWbIMzKJGEQ7kNvgHalE6J&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYBkIVhlzIGs7QMk0hBDE29p7g2FowKXsFeRR2Ygajk2wQ&oe=67A64F06 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Madiing tinali ni Lorelei ang sintas ng luma niyang sapatos. Kalahating oras na lang ay magsisimula na ang klase niya ngunit hinihintay niya pa ang perang ibibigay ng kanyang Tita Agnes. Pang-huling taon na niya sa kolehiyo sa kursong business management. Gusto niya ay siya na ang mag-manage sa maliit na restaurant na iniwan ng yumao niyang ina na hawak ng Tita niya. Nagsalubong ang mga kilay niya at napasandal sa lumang sofa matapos marinig ang halinghing ng Tita niya mula sa kwarto. Sigurado siyang naroon na naman ang kinakasama nitong lalaki na si Richard. "Idiin mo, Richard!" dinig pa niyang sigaw ng Tita niya. Naiiling siyang pumikit. Maya-maya pa matatapos ang mga ito kaya naman tumayo na siya at kumatok sa pinto ng kwarto. "Tita, aalis na po ako." "Oh! Ode umalis kaโRichard!" muling hiyaw pa nito. "Iyong pera ko po," paalala niya pa rito ngunit daing at halinghing ang sagot nito. Paulit-ulit niyang kinatok ang pinto. Ang huling bigay nito ay limangdaan na pinagkasya niya ng isang linggo. Ayaw naman niyang basagin ang alkansyang baboy niya na mamiso lang ang laman. Nabitin sa ere ang pagkatok niya noong bumukas ang pinto. Niluwa no'n si Richard na pawisin, tanging basketball short ang suot, may hawak din itong libo-libong pera sa kamay. Namumutok ang mga braso nito at halos masakop ang pinto sa laki ng katawan. Mukha pa itong aburido noong tumingin sa kanya kaya napaatras siya. "Istorbo," parinig pa nito bago siya lagpasan. Napamaang siya at agad na pumasok sa kwarto. Huli niya pang nagsusuot pa lang ng t-shirt ang Tita niya. "Pera lang ang habol sa'yo ni Richard, Tita. Hiwalayan mo na iyon. Ang laki ng katawan no'n at kaya no'n ang magtrabahoโ" "Huwag kang makialam sa desisyon ko at hindi naman kita anak. Ikaw ang lumayas kung gusto mo. Bukas makalawa ay dito na titira si Richard. Mas maganda siguro kung humanap ka na ng ibang matitirahan at baka maging kaagaw pa kita sa kanya. Malaki ka na, kaya mo na ang sarili mo," pinal nitong sambit bago nagsuot ng underwear. Nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata niya, "Ginagatasan ka lang ng pera ni Richard, Titaโ" "Oh ayan, dalawang libo para matikom iyang bibig mo. Huling baon mo na iyan. Gagamitin ni Richard ang pera at magtatayo siya ng talyer." Mas lalo siyang nanlumo, "Hindi po pwede iyon. Pera ni Mama ang mga iyan. Kita sa restaurant niya, Tita. Huwag naman po kayong magpabilog kay Richard!" hindi niya mapigilang ilakas ang boses niya. Napalunok pa siya at natakot noong tumayo ito at lumapit sa kanya. Matalim na ang tingin nito. "Aba! Ano'ng pera ng Mama mo? Ilagay mo sa kokote mong matagal ng patay ang Mama mo at akin na ang restaurant na iyon. Pinag-aral at pinakain na kita. Nasa tamang edad ka na at kaya mo ng magtrabaho." Ilang beses pa nitong tinulak-tulak ang noo niya. "Hala sige, layas!" galit pa nitong sigaw bago siya itulak palabas ng pinto. Pinigil niya ang mga luha. Bandang huli ay hindi niya nakuha ang dalawang libong bigay nito. Nanghiram pa tuloy siya ng pera kay Nica. "Paano ang OJT mo? Titigil ka kailan huling taon na, Lei?" Nasapo niya ang noo at napasubsob sa mesa. Simula noong maging boyfriend ng Tita niya si Richard ay naging ganoon na ang Tita niya. "Ewan ko. Hindi ko na alam, Nica." Bumikig ang lalamunan niya sa badyang pag-iyak. Ni hindi niya pinansin ang grupong lumapit sa kanila. "Si Alicia," bulong pa sa kanya ni Nica. Si Alicia ang pinakasikat sa university nila. Mayaman, makinis, at madaming kakilala. Napasilip pa siya rito. Malaki ang ngiti nito, litaw ang naka-braces na ngipin. Ni hindi gumagalaw ang kulot na buhok na kulay blonde. Napaayos siya ng upo noong maglapag ito ng papel. "We're recruiting members for our sorority. You might want to join. Tonight is the initiation," magiliw nitong saad. Nangunot ang noo niya. Alam niyang hindi magandang sumali sa sorority ngunit noong mabasa niya ang mga benefits sa papel ay napalunok siya. "Free education and free allowance. Mayayaman lahat ng kasali at mga iilang negosyante. Nagpaparami lang kami ng miyembro. No fees, all free. Don't worry about the initiation, hindi naman iyon masakit. I would love to see both of you tonight." Kumindat pa ito bago umalis kasama ang dalawa pang alagad nito. "Maganda ang benefits nila, Lei. Solve ang problema mo kapag sumali tayo." Dumukwang ito at nilapit ang tainga sa kanya, "Tsaka alam mo ba, balita ko may kasapi silang Fraternity na puro gwapo," dagdag na bulong nito bago humagikhik. Wala siyang pakialam sa mga gwapo. Ang kagustuhan niyang makatapos ng kolehiyo ang nagtulak sa kanyang sumali. Makailang beses niya pang sinuklay ang malambot, tuwid, at maitim na hanggang balikat niyang buhok. Ginamit niya rin ang lipbalm upang malambot tingnan ang mga labi niya. Kaunting polbo lang ay sinuot na niya ang puting lumang bestida niyang abot hanggang tuhod at sandalyas na naging dirty white na. Kabado pa siya noong makarating sa hideout ng mga ito. Nasa pila na rin si Nica na agad kumaway sa kanya. Mabilis siyang lumapit. "Piliin raw natin iyong sarap sabi ni Alicia. Lahat kasi ng pumili ng hirap ay dinadala sa kabila at nakakatanggap ng hampas at palo," bulong nito. "Huh? Akala ko ba hindi masakit ang initiation nila?" "Hindi nga kapag sarap ang pinili mo. Basta, doon tayo sa turo ni Alicia. Ayokong magkapeklat, Lei." Napalunok siya at hindi mawari ang kaba sa dibdib niya. Makailang beses niya pang pinisil ang mga kamay. "Nica Fernandez!" sigaw ng lalaking tingin niya ay bouncer. Nagtaas ng kamay ang kaibigan niya bago humarap sa kanya. "Tandaan mo ang pipiliin mo, Lei. Iyon ang pipiliin ko. Magkita na lang tayo ulit bukas. Para sa pangarap, Lei!" pagpapasigla pa nito ngunit hindi niya masuklian ng ngiti. Siya na ang kasunod pagkatapos nito ngunit hindi na siya mapakali. May tatlo pang babae sa likod niya at dinig niyang pipiliin din ng mga ito ang pinapapili sa kanya ni Nica. "Lorelei Carpio!" Napaigtad siya sa malakas na sigaw ng bouncer. Muntik pa siyang madapa sa pagkataranta para lang makalapit. Tumuwid siya ng tayo. Pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin. Nangunot ang noo nito ngunit hindi nagkomento. Baka iniisip nitong bata siya sa height niyang 5'5 at balingkinitang katawan. "Sarap o hirap, Miss?" hindi nakangiting tanong nito. Napalunok siya at naumid yata ang dila pero kailangan niyang sumagot. Malaking benepisyo ang makukuha niya kapag natanggap siya sa sorority ni Alicia. "S-arap po," pikit-matang sagot niya. Inangat nito ang palad at agad na lumapit ang isa pang bouncer. "Nandiyan na ba si Phoenix?" tanong nito sa tinawag. "Kadarating lang pero nasa kwarto na." "Good. Ibigay mo 'yan sa kanya at ipaalala mong birhen 'yan," utos pa nito sa lalaki. Nangunot ang noo niya ngunit napapikit noong basta na lang siya lagyan ng blindfold sa mga mata. "B-akit po may blindfold?" kabadong tanong niya. "Hindi mo pwedeng makita ang makakasama mo. Bawal mong silipin o tanungin ang pangalan niya. Kapag ginawa mo iyon, madi-disqualify ka at hindi ka tatanggapin sa grupo," paalala pa ng bouncer na lumapit. Tinatak niya sa isip ang mga sinabi nito. Napasunod siya noong hilahin siya nito sa kung saan. Narinig niya rin ang tunog ng doorknob. Marahan pa siya nitong tinulak sa loob. Sumalubong sa kanya ang mabangong amoy ng lemon. Hindi niya mawari kung air freshener iyon o pabango. "New recruit?" tanong ng mababa at tila namamaos na boses. Nanindig pa ang mga balahibo niya sa bahagyang lamig sa boses nito. "Birhen 'yan. Ingatan mo." Nahigit niya ang hininga at kinabahan noong bitiwan na siya ng lalaki. Ramdam niya bigla ang tensyon sa paligid, maging ang mariing titig sa kanya. "I'm not gonna educate you. I hope you know why you are here and why you came here... willingly," seryosong sambit pa nito gamit ang namamaos nitong boses. Mabilis siyang tumango. Ang sabi sa kanya ay mabilis lang ang initiation kaya baka tanong nga lang iyon. "Uhm, I w-ant to finish my studies; that's why I came here," kabadong sagot niya ngunit malutong pagmumura ang narinig niya mula dito. Kasunod ay ang pagbukas ng pinto, "Inosente itong ni-recruit niyo! Get her outta here!" biglang sigaw nito sa labas. "You can't back out, Phoenix. Alam mo ang mangyayari sa kanya kapag pinaalis mo siya ngayon," madiing sagot ng kung sino. Marahas na buntong hininga ang narinig niya at malakas ding sinara ang pinto. Nagtaasan muli ang mga balahibo niya sa gulat noong humawak ang may kagaspangan nitong palad sa braso niya. "I hope you won't regret coming here," mabigat nitong bulong. Nanlamig siya noong umikot ang malaking braso nito sa bewang niya. Sa tantiya niya ay malaki din ang katawan nito lalo na noong lumapat ang balikat niya sa malapad nitong dibdib. Napaatras pa siya noong maramdaman ang daliri nitong binababa ang strap ng kanyang bestida. "A-nong gagawin mo?" Humakbang ito na kinaatras niya. Mahina siyang napasigaw sa pagbagsak niya sa kama. Gulat pa siya sa malaking katawan na biglang umibabaw sa kanya. Kumalabog ng husto ang puso nita. Sakop na sakop ng malaking katawan nito ang katawan niya. "S-andali!" Sinubukan niyang pigilan ang dibdib nito kahit hindi niya nakikita ngunit hinuli nito ang mga kamay niya at parehong pininid sa kama gamit ang isang palad nito. Bumigat ang paghinga niya lalo na noong sumiksik sa looban ng bestida niya ang malaking palad nito. "You should not have come here, Miss. Now you left me no choice but to take you," mabigat na bulong nito bago lumapat ang mga basang labi sa kanyang leeg. Lalo siyang nanlamig matapos matanto ang nangyayari. Hindi siya nakakilos. Ang naglalakabay nitong mainit na palad at ang malaking katawan nito sa itaas niya ay sapat na upang mangilid ang mga luha niya. "H-uwag po," nanginig pa ang boses niya. Marahas na bumuntong hininga ang lalaki, "You chose this. I tried my best to help you. The least thing I can do... is to be gentle," tila nahihirapang bulong nito. Napalunok siya kahit pa unti-unti nitong naalis ang mga saplot niya. Niyakap siya ng lamig ng aircon ngunit natakpan sa init ng malaking katawan nitong nasa itaas niya. Ang kabog ng dibdib niya ay walang kasing lakas sa pinaghalong kaba at kung ano man ang pinaparamdam nito sa kanya lalo noong dumausdos ito pababa... sa pagitan ng mga hita niya. Nanginig ang mga hita niya noong maramdaman ang mainit nitong paghinga't bibig nitong dumampi doon. Pinagpawisan siya nang malagkit kasabay ng kaba. Tanging impit na ungol at daing ang naibulalas niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang bibig nito doon. Napapabalikwas ang bewang niya ngunit hindi ito masipa. Para siyang na-estatwa noong magtagal ito doon hanggang sa mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa mga labi niya. Hinihingal pa siya sa paggapang nito muli sa itaas niya, pinaghiwalay ang mga hita niya, at pinwesto ang malaking katawan doon. Hindi siya nakaprotesta, naumid ang dila niya at hindi mahanap ang boses niya. Sunod na lang niyang namalayan ay ang pagtulo ng luha niya sa hapdi matapos mag-isa ang katawan nila. Namilipit siya sa sakit sa bawat galaw nito. Tila napunit na nito lahat ng nasa loob niya at kahit bagalan pa nito ay hiyaw ang kumakawala sa bibig niya. Pinirmi pa nito ang bewang niya. Nawalan na rin ng lakas ang mga kamay niya na kahit binitiwan nito ay hindi siya nakakilos para itulak ito. Namimigat ang paghinga niya at napapa-igik sa bawat madiing galaw nito sa loob niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang malaking katawan nitong gumagalaw sa kanyang itaas. Ni hindi niya alam kung paanong natapos ang pangyayaring iyon. Ang alam niya lang ay nakuha ng isang estrangherong lalaki ang puri niya. Paggising niya ay nananakit ang katawan niya. Takot pa siyang alisin ang blindfold ngunit kusa iyong nalaglag. Namulatan niya ang tahimik na kwarto, walang bakas na may nakasama siya ngunit ang dugo sa kobre kama ay patunay na wala na sa kanya ang iniingatan niya. Napasubsob siya sa kanyang tuhod at napahagulhol. Masyado siyang nagpadalos-dalos sa desisyon niya! Dapat ay inalam niya muna kung ano'ng klaseng sarap ang sinasabi ng mga ito! Kahit hirap maglakad ay pinilit niya ang sariling magbihis at umalis sa lugar na iyon. Wala na rin naman ang mga bouncer. Kahit si Nica ay hindi niya mahagilap. Sa sobrang pagod niya ay hindi na niya pinansin ang boyfriend ng Tita niya na nasa sala. Diretso siyang kwarto at binagsak ang katawan doon. Ang masama, nilagnat pa siya at napanaginipan ng ilang beses ang nangyari! Tatlong araw din siyang hindi nakapasok. Para siyang lutang na naglalakad noong pumasok na sa eskwela. Natulala pa siya sa nakangiti niyang kaibigan. "Bayad na ang tuition fee nating dalawa. Ang galing! May allowance pa, Lei!" Hagikhik nito bago pinakita ang cheque na may malaking halagang nakasulat. Napalunok siya. Ito na iyon. Ito na ang kapalit ng pagsali nila sa Sorority. Dapat bang kalimutan na lang niya ang nangyari sa kanila ng lalaki? "Ang balita ko ay mga Fraternity leader ang mga lalaking iyon, Lei. Hindi ko rin nakilala ang sa'kin," kwento pa ni Nica sa kanya. "H-indi ka ba umiyak? O nasaktan? Ako kasi pakiramdam ko nahati ang katawan ko," mahinang sambit niya. Namula ang mga pisngi nito, "Hindi ko una iyon kaya... sakto lang ang sakit." Napaawang ang mga labi niya sa kaibigan. Hindi pa mag-sink in sa kanya iyon. Wala naman siyang karapatan na husgahan ito kaya tumango na lang siya. "Wala bang meeting ang Sorority ngayon? Gusto kong magtanong kay Alicia. Baka pwede ko ng makita man lang iyong Phoenix na nakasama ko," imbis ay liko niya sa usapan. "Hindi tayo natanggap doon, Lei." "A-no? P-aanong hindi? Pero bayad na ang tuition fee base na rin sa benefits nila." Umiling ito, "Bayad iyon sa'tin, Lei. Hindi tayo kasapi ng grupo nila. Hindi tayo tinanggap." Para siyang nabingi sa narinig. Kumuyom ang kamao niya. Ang ibig sabihin ay inalay lang sila sa mga Fraternity leader na iyon. Gusto niyang magdamdam at ibalik ang perang natanggap ngunit hindi niya magawa lalo na noong mas maghigpit sa pera ang Tita Agnes niya. Naka-survive siya ng halos dalawang buwan sa allowance na bigay ng grupo. May natira pa ngunit hindi sasapat iyon kaya muli siyang kumakatok sa kwarto ng Tita niya. "Tita, hihingi po sana ako ng allowanceโ" Nabitin sa ere ang kamay niya at napatingala kay Richard noong buksan nito ang kwarto. Sumandal pa ito at humalukipkip. Napaatras siya noong bigla siya nitong pasadahan ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Nagtagal pa ang mga titig nito sa mga dibdib niya kaya nayakap niya ang sarili. "B-akit ka nandito? N-asaan si Tita Agnes?" Ngumisi ito at mas niluwangan ang pinto, "Dito na ako nakatira. May binili lang ang Tita mo. Kalahating oras pa iyon sa bayan. Baka gusto mong paligayahin muna kita." Napasinghap siya sa takot at umatras "Manyak!" galit niyang sigaw dito ngunit pilit nitong inabot ang siko niya at hinihila siya papasok sa kwarto. "Mabilis lang, Lei. Hindi malalaman ng Tita mo. Tayong dalawa langโ" "Bitiwan mo ko! Ayoko sa'yo!" Malakas niya itong sinampal. Nabitiwan siya nito at sinalo ang pisnging sinampal niya. "Punyeta ka, Lorelei! Bakit mo sinampal si Richard?!" biglang sigaw ng Tita niya mula sa likod kaya natulos siya sa kinatatayuan.p Nanginig siya sa kaba lalo na sa nanlilisik na tingin ng Tita niya. "T-ita, kasiโ" "Lumayas kang Punyeta ka! Palamunin ka na nga lang hindi ka pa marunong rumespeto!" Namilog ang mga mata niya noong bigla na lang siya nitong hilahin sa buhok at kaladkarin sa labas ng bahay. "T-ita, nagkakamali kayo! Sinubukan niya akong dalhin sa kwartoโ" "Wala akong pakialam! Napakalandi mo at pati boyfriend ko inaakit mo!" sigaw nito bago siya tinulak sa labas ng pinto. Muntik na siyang sumubsob sa lupa kun'di siya nakabalanse. Malakas pa nitong sinarado ang pinto ngunit bumalik para lang itapon sa pagmumukha niya ang iilang damit. "Lumayas ka at huwag kang babalik dito! Hindi ko kailangan ng malanding pamangkin!" sobrang lakas na sigaw nito na nakapagpalabas sa mga kapitbahay nila. Hiyang-hiya siya noong magbulungan ang mga iyon. Nayakap na lang niya ang mga damit at ang alkansyang baboy niyang tinapon nito sa kanyang paanan. Nagbagsakan ang mga luha niya. Gusto niyang ipaglaban na bahay iyon ng Mama niya ngunit alam niyang hindi na makikinig ang tiyahin niya. Tinago na lang niya ang mukha sa mga damit na hawak at mabilis na nagtawag ng tricycle. Nagpunta siya kila Nica at maging ito ay gigil na gigil sa tiyahin niya at kay Richard matapos niyang magkwento. "Ipabarangay mo, Lei. Wala siyang karapatan sa bahay na iyon. Sa'yo iyon! Pati ang negosyo ng Mama mo, sa'yo iyon! Pinagkaitan ka niya, lahat ng pera ng Mama mo siya ang nagwaldas. Hmp! Kumukulo ang dugo ko sa Tita Agnes mo!" Umakto pa itong manunugod ngunit pinigilan niya sa siko at umiling dito. "H-uwag na, Nica. Hindi ko na rin naman gugustuhing bumalik doon lalo na kung naroon si Richard." "Pero paano ka? Saan ka titira? Paano ang pag-aaral mo? Patapos na tayo, Lei. Bayad na rin ang tuition fee mo." Bumagsak ang tingin niya sa sahig at nanlabo ang mga mata. Hindi niya rin alam kung paano malalagpasan iyon pero pinilit niyang maghanap ng trabaho at apartment na maliit. Sakto lang sa kanya ngunit pagod na pagod nga lang siya bilang waitress ng eatery. Makailang beses tuloy siyang nakatulog sa klase at ang huli ay nahuli pa siya ng lalaking matandang professor niya. "Miss Carpio, alam mong bawal matulog sa klase ko." Napalunok siya at hindi mapigilan ang mga pumipikit na mga mata, "S-orry, Sir. Hindi na po mauulit." Umismid ito at lumayo ngunit noong makita siya na muling pumikit ay galit na siya nitong pinalabas. Nanghihina tuloy siyang napakapit sa pader ng hallway. Naghabol ng paghinga at pakiramdam niya ay umiikot ang paligid niya. Isang hakbang pa ay alam niyang sinakop na siya ng dilim. Noong magising ay nasa tabi na niya si Nica na mukhang kinabahan. Mabilis pa itong umalalay noong pilitin niyang umupo. "Ano'ng nangyari? Tsaka bakit ako nasa clinic, Nica?" Natameme ito ngunit nangilid ang luha sa gilid ng mga mata. Binugso tuloy siya ng kaba at napatitig dito. "B-akit, Nica?" Suminghot ito, "B-untis ka, Lei." Tila nawalan siya ng paghinga sa narinig mula dito. Napalunok siya at nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata. "Hindi gumamit ng proteksyon ang nakasama mo sa initiation, Lei. Binuntis ka niya," sobrang hinang sambit nito. Bumagsak ang luha niya at nanginginig ang kamay na dumapo sa impis niyang tiyan. "Patakaran ng Fraternity nila na gumamit ng proteksyon, pero dahil buntis ka... sigurado akong hindi siya gumamit no'n," patuloy pa nitong paliwanag ngunit naba-blangko na ang isip niya lalo't hindi na niya alam ang sunod na gagawin sa buhay niya. "P-aano ko siya mahahanap, Nica? Paano na ako? Hindi ko pa kaya." Tuloy - tuloy na naglandas ang mga luha niya habang inaalala ang pangalan ng lalaki. "Phoenix. Tama, Phoenix ang pangalan niya, Nica. Hanapin na'tin. Itanong na'tin kay Alicia," pagsusumamo niya sa kaibigan ngunit umiling ito. "Phoenix is just a code name, Lei. Sigurado akong hindi rin siya kilala ni Alicia lalo na kung isa siya sa mga leader," sagot nito na nagpabagsak sa mga balikat niya. "Tingin ko, sinadya niyang buntisin ka," muling sambit nito na nagpakuyom sa kamao niya. FIVE YEARS LATER Para siyang pinutulan ng pakpak dahil sa nangyaring iyon sa buhay niya. Wala siyang choice noon kun'di tumigil sa pag-aaral at magpokus sa trabaho para may pera pagkapanganak niya. Sinubukan naman niyang hanapin ang lalaki, pati nga si Alicia ay ginulo niya ngunit bigla na lang itong naglaho na parang bula. Pati ang kaibigan niyang si Nica ay bigla ring nawala at hindi alam kung saan napunta kaya natakot siyang maghaluglog pa ng impormasyon. Ang tanging nalaman niya ay leader ng Alpha Omega Fraternity ang lalaking nakakuha sa pagkabirhen niya. Limang taon na ang lumipas ngunit hindi niya talaga makakalimutan ang nangyaring iyon lalo't dalawang supling ang pabaon sa kanya ng lalaki. "Mama, wait ka namin mamaya. Promise mo bibili po tayo ng toys?" Kumurap-kurap pa sa kanya ang biluging mga mata ng anak niyang babaeng si Odessy. Marahan siyang lumuhod at inayos ang pagkaka-pigtail ng buhok nito. "Promise! Huwag kang lalayo kay Achi ah? Makinig kay teacher," habilin niya dito bago marahang hinila din palapit ang anak niyang lalaking si Achilles. "Mama, iyong book. Isa na lang bilhin mo po, share na lang kami ni Ody," marahang paalala sa kanya ni Achilles. Pilit siyang ngumiti sa mga ito. Parehong nasa daycare ang dalawa. Pinipilit niyang maibigay lahat ng pangangailangan nila pero sobrang hirap lalo't hindi siya tapos ng kolehiyo at hindi makahanap ng trabahong mataas ang pasahod. "Hindi pwede, Achi. Kailangan tig-isa kayo. Doon kayo sasagot. Ako ng bahala. Bantayan mo ang kapatid mo. Baka makipag-away." Ginulo niya pa ang buhok ito at marahang kinurot ang hindi kalakihang pisngi. "Pwede naman ako sa papel lang sasagot, Mama," pilit nito na inilingan niya. Ayaw niya ng ganoon. Hindi niya ipagkakait ang magandang edukasyon sa mga anak niya. Hindi hangga't nabubuhay siya. "Si Mama na bahala. Ubusin niyo baon niyo. Okii?" Malawak na ngumiti si Ody sa kanya at humawak sa braso ng kapatid. Si Achi man ay pilit na ngumiti. "Mama, ingat!" sabay pang sigaw ng dalawa bago maglakad papasok sa classroom. Pinigilan niya ang naninikip na dibdib matapos tumama sa liwanag ng araw ang mga mata ng mga ito at masilayan kung paanong naging kayumanggi ang mga itim na mga mata ng mga ito. Ilang beses na niyang hinanap sa mga lalaki ang ganoong klase ng mata. Maitim kapag walang araw ngunit kulay kayumanggi kapag nasinagan. Hindi ganoon ang mga mata niya kaya sigurado siyang namana ng dalawa iyon sa mga ama ng mga ito. Hindi rin siya naniniwalang sinadya siyang buntisin ng lalaking iyon dahil hanggang ngayon, walang nagpapakilala para akuin ang mga anak niya. Bumuga siya ng hangin at agad na nagtungo sa opisina ng abogadong amo niya. Ngunit masamang balita ang bumungad sa kanya. "I'm really sorry, Lei. Ipapasara na ang firm. Sa bahay na muna magtatrabaho ang asawa ko at ako na muna ang sekretarya niya. Pasensya ka na. Huling sahod mo na 'to." Nilapit pa ni Misis Alvarez ang sobre sa kanya. Napalunok siya at napatitig doon. Dalawang taon na siyang sekretarya ni Mr. Alvarez at hindi naman lingid sa kaalamam niyang pabagsak na ang firm nito. Nilunok na lang niya ang bikig sa lalamunan niya. Sigurado siyang mahihirapan na naman siyang maghanap ng trabaho. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Umikot na rin sa isip niya ang mga bayarin niya. Simula sa renta sa bahay, sa kuryente, allowance ng kambal, at mga bayarin sa eskwela. "W-ala po ba kayong kilala na... pwede kong lipatan, Misis Alvarez?" Bumuntong hininga ang Ginang, "Tatawagan ko ang kakilala ko, Hija. Itatanong ko kung may alam siyang naghahanap ng sekretarya pero hindi ako nangangako. Tatawagan na lang kita." Bagsak ang balikat na umalis siya doon. Halos hindi siya makalunok matapos bilangin ang iilang libong sahod niya para sa buwan na iyon. Tubig nga lang ang binili niya sa convenience store habang nagtitingin - tingin sa diyaryo. Kahit ano'ng trabaho papatusin na niya kaysa walang trabaho sa loob ng ilang buwan. "Tanggal na naman?! Pang ilan na 'yan ngayong buwan. Ano bang gusto niya? Single? Walang single na babae ang papatol sa gusto ni Mr. Montanier โFine, Eman. Ako na ang maghahanap ng bago niyang sekretarya. Kainis!" Nagpantig ang tainga niya sa narinig at mabilis na napaangat ng tingin sa Ginang na aburidong binaba ang hawak na cellphone. Mabilis siyang tumayo noong akma itong lalabas sa convenience store. Nagulat ito noong pigilan niya sa braso. "Bakit, Hija?" Kumunot ang noo nito sa kanya. Sa tantiya niya ay nasa edad forty-five na ito base na rin sa iilang litaw na puting buhok. "N-aghahanap po kayo ng sekretarya?" kabadong tanong niya. Literal na pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Sa kaba niya ay nabitiwan niya ang braso nito. "May asawa ka?" Mabilis siyang umiling, "Wala po!" Tumango ito at nilahad ang kamay kaya mabilis niyang nilagay doon ang resume niya. Mabilis nitong pinasadahan ang papel bago pinasok sa bag nito. "Tanggap ka na. Sumama ka sa'kin." Walang pagdadalawang isip siyang sumama sa Ginang. Imbis na sa kumpanya ay sa malaki at modernong bahay siya dinala. Sa isang exclusive subdivision iyon. Babasagin ang dingding at kumikinang ang mga mamahaling mwebles ng bahay. Kulay abo at puti ang bahay kaya sigurado siyang lalaki ang magiging amo niya. "Ako si Melia, Hija. Pinaka-sekretarya ni Sir Hector. Bukod sa'kin, may isa pa siyang sekretarya, si Eman. Pareho kaming sa kumpanya at kailangan pa ng isa pang sekretarya ni Sir Hector. On-call at kung pwede ay stay-in." Natigilan siya sa sinabi nito, "Stay-in po?" Hindi pwede sa kanya ang trabahong ganoon lalo na kung hindi pwedeng dalhin ang mga anak niya. "Bawal ba, Hija? Kaya tinanong kita kung may asawa ka. Madalas na magtrabaho sa bahay si Hector. Workholic at umaabot ng madaling araw. Kailangan na may magremind sa kanya sa schedule at dapat niyang pirmahan. Hindi naman madalas na stay-in pero paglalaanan na kita ng kwarto dito. Wala ka naman din sigurong anak di ba? Gusto niya ay single, walang extra baggage at kaya ang trabaho. Sana naman ikaw na ang huli at magtatagal dito sa bahay niya," patuloy na paliwanag nito. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Kung ganoon hindi niya pwedeng sabihin na may kambal siyang anak. "Maglipat ka na ng iilang gamit mo. Pwede kang bumalik bukas ng umaga para pag-usapan ang sahod mo. Nasa event pa si Sir Hector at madaling araw pa babalik. Lahat ng gamit dito pwede mong gamitin. Kung masipag ka, linisin mo na rin, may dagdag sahod naman. Isabay mo na rin ang kwarto niya." "Hindi po ba nakakatakot si Sir Hector?" Natigil ito sa tanong niya. Pagkaraan ay tinuro ang malaking portrait sa sala. Sinundan niya iyon ng tingin. Nagtaasaan ang mga balahibo niya sa klase ng tingin nito sa camera. Galit maging ang magkasalubong nitong makapal na kilay. Walang ngiti ang manipis na labi at mabalbas na panga. Halata ring matigas ang panga nito. At ang ilong, sobrang tangos! Maging ang buhok nitong nakasuklay palikod ay kumikinang sa larawan. Higit sa lahat, litaw ang matipunong dibdib nitong may makapal na balahibo. Sa larawan ay seryoso itong nag-aayos sa relong pambisig. "He's Hector Montanier and he's a perfectionist. So please, beware. Huwag kang gumawa ng bagay na ikakagalit niya kung ayaw mong mawalan agad ng trabaho, Hija," madiing paalala nito kaya napalunok siya. Kaya niya ba? Kaya niya bang pagsilbihan ang lalaking sa larawan pa lang ay mukhang papatay na? Paano pa sa personal? Baka hindi na siya makahinga kapag nakaharap ito. "Gusto ka niyang makausap." Gulat pa siya noong ilahad ni Miss Melia ang cellphone sa kanya. Nanginginig ang kamay niyang tinanggap iyon at nilagay sa tainga niya. Dinig niya ang mahinang musika sa background ngunit mas dinig niya ang mabibigat nitong paghinga. "Your name?" swabe at malamig ang boses nito kaya nahigit niya ang paghinga. "L-orelei Carpio po, Sir." Mahina ngunit marahas na paghinga ang narinig niya mula dito. "Lorelei, hmm," namamaos na sambit nito sa pangalan niya at hindi niya alam kung bakit naghatid iyon ng kakaibang init sa kaibuturan niya. Mabilis niyang binalik ang cellphone kay Miss Melia. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya at hindi kayang kausapin ang bagong boss niya. "B-abalik na lang po ako bukas," tarantang paalam niya. Kahit hindi pa ito um-oo ay lumabas na siya ng bahay na iyon. May mali sa pakiramdam niya. Bakit ganoon? Bakit pakiramdam niya buong boses nito ang humagod sa katawan niya? Iniisip niya pa kung narinig na ba niya iyon noon, pamilyar ngunit hindi niya maalala. "Lorelei, hmm." Muling umulit sa isipan niya ang pagtawag nito sa kanya. Naipagdikit niya ang mga hita lalo't tila namasa ang nasa pagitan ng mga iyon. Bumigat ang paghinga niya. Parang ayaw na niyang tanggapin ang trabaho lalo na kung araw - araw niyang makakasalamuha si Hector Montanier. Tulala tuloy siya noong sunduin ang kambal. Dinala niya pa sa malapit na bilihan ng laruan para na rin makalimutan niya ang pagtawag ni Sir Hector sa kanya. "Itong teddy bear na lang, Mama. Kapag barbie, ako lang ang maglalaro, kapag car naman, si Achi lang. Pero itong bear, pwede kaming share, Mama!" Masiglang tinaas pa ni Ody ang maliit na puting teddy bear. Nahabag siya sa mga ito. Hindi man lang niya maibili ng kahit tig-isang laruan. Hindi man lang niya mapakain sa sikat na fastfood ang mga anak. Mabilis siyang tumango ngunit umiwas ng tingin noong mapansin ang paninitig ni Achi sa kanya. Binayaran na lang niya ang teddy bear para makauwi na sila. Akala niya ay nakaligtas na siya sa mapanuring titig ng anak ngunit hindi. "Mama, iyong book. Kailangan na raw bilhin. Isa na lang, Mama. Kay Ody na lang. Kung hindi pwede, sa susunod na lang po ako mag-aral," kalmadong pagkausap ni Achi sa kanya. Parang pinilipit ang puso niya. Hindi niya hahayaan na mangyari iyon! Hindi deserve ng mga anak niya na maranasan ang nangyari sa kanya. "Hindi, Achi. Bibilhin natin bukas iyon. May bago na akong trabaho." Pinisil niya pa muli ang pisngi nito. Namula nga iyon lalo na't sobrang puti ng dalawa. Ang balak tuloy niyang pagtanggi na sa trabaho ay naudlot. Mas kailangan niya pala iyon. Bahala na kung ano'ng klaseng tao si Sir Hector, basta siya, trabaho lang ang gusto niya. Kinabukasan ay kinausap niya ang mga ito na gagabihin siya. Ayaw niyang iwanan pero hindi niya pwedeng isama. Kung malaki ang sahod niya ay kukuha siya ng bantay para sa mga ito. Kabado siyang bumalik sa malaking bahay. Sa harap pa lang ng pinto ay kumakalabog na ang dibdib niya. Kita na niya roon ang mamahaling sport car na wala kahapon. Nanginginig tuloy ang kamay niyang i-input ang code na pinadala pa sa mensahe ni Miss Melia upang mabuksan niya ang pinto. Pagbukas ay tumambad sa kanya ang pares ng mamahaling itim na sapatos. Pinulot niya iyon upang maitabi. Ngunit nabaling ang atensyon niya sa mahinang hilik sa sala. Kinakabahan siyang lumapit. Tumingkayad para lang masilip ang bagong boss niyang mahimbing ang tulog sa sofa. Halos hindi nga ito magkasya doon sa laki ng katawan. Ang isang binti nito ay nasa sahig habang ang isa ay nasa arm rest. Unan nito ang namumutok na braso at higit sa lahat ay bukas ang suot nitong puting longsleeve kaya't malaya niyang nasilayan ang makapal na balahibo sa matipuno nitong dibdib. Napalunok siya at imbis na lumiko ay umakyat ang tingin niya sa awang nitong mga labi. Namumula at nakasilip pa ang pantay-pantay na puting ngipin nito. Sa totoo lang, para itong modelo ng brief at toothpaste na lumabas sa magazine. Pati panga ay naninigas at sigurado siyang hindi basta-basta ang alaga nito sa ibaba. Ano bang pinag-iisip niya?! "Are you done checking me out, Miss?" namamaos pang bigkas nito bigla kaya napasinghap siya. Nabitin sa ere ang paghinga niya at namilog ang mga mata noong magkatitigan sila. Inaantok pa ang itim nitong mga mata at sobrang haba ng mga pilikmata kaya lalo siyang hindi nakapagsalita. "Close your mouth. Your lips look so delectable," inaantok nitong bigkas muli ngunit iba ang dating ng boses sa kanya kaya nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Ang boses nito ay parang kagagaling sa nakakapagod na ehersisyo sa kama. Magaspang na namamaos. "Close them... please. I might kiss you if you keep drooling on me. Do you want me... to take you here?" biglang tanong nito kaya namula lalo ang mga pisngi niya. Para siyang naeskandalo at hindi na makatingin dito ngunit nahuli niya ang pag-angat ng gilid ng labi nito. Hindi iyon ngiti kun'di maliit na ngisi. Lumitaw pa sa kanang gilid ng labi nito ang hindi kalalimang dimple. "Just kidding. Let's talk inside my office," bawi nito bago biglang bumangon. Mabilis siyang umiwas at napayuko noong basta na lang ito nag-alis ng butones ng longsleeve nito at swabe iyong hinubad. "Do I smell liquor?" mabigat na tanong nito kaya lang ay ayaw niyang lumingon dito kaya nanatili ang titig niya sa sahig. "I'm asking you. Amoy alak ba ako, Lorelei?" halos paos na naman ang boses nito kaya napapikit siya nang mariin. Iba talaga ang hagod ng boses nito sa katawan niya. Lahat ng balahibo niya ay nagtataasan at pati puson niya ay nakikiliti. Napalunok siya noong maramdaman ang paglapit nito. Pagmulat pa niya ay mabalahibong paa ang nakita niya sa harap ng mga paa niya. "N-o, Sir. H-indi po kayo amoy alak," kabadong sagot niya noong akma siya nitong hahawakan. Pag-angat ng tingin niya ay seryoso itong naninitig sa kanya. Salubong ang kilay. Hindi niya nga maitutok ang tingin sa mukha nito lalo't nakabalandra sa harap niya ang hubad nitong katawan. Bumigat ang paghinga niya at gusto na lang pindutin ang matitigas nitong muscles. "In my office," may awtoridad na nitong utos bago tumalikod. Napabuga siya ng hangin. Napapaypay sa sarili at hindi maiwasang manghina. Parang naubos ang lakas niya dito. Sinulyapan niya na lang ang matipuno nitong likod na pumasok sa isang pinto. Huminga siya nang malalim nang ilang beses at binalik ang mga sapatos sa sahig bago sumunod. Nakasandal na ito sa swivel chair at mukhang hinihintay siya. Nahuli niya agad ang mariing titig nito. "Here, Lorelei," malalim na sambit nito at marahang tinipa ang daliri nito sa mesa. Tahimik siyang lumapit kahit nahihiya. Na-conscious siya sa paninitig nito at pakiramdam niya ay hubad na siya sa isip nito. "I might require you to work 24/7, so make sure you don't have any extra baggage to attend to. Don't worry, I'll pay you triple or name your price," seryosong saad nito matapos iabot sa kanya ang blankong cheque na may pirma na nito. Napatitig siya doon ngunit hindi inasahan ang pagtayo nito at paglapit sa likod niya. Muli siyang naestatwa matapos maramdaman ang init ng paghinga nito sa bandang tainga at leeg niya. Hindi pa siya nakakilos noong lumapat sa bewang niya ang mainit at malaking palad nito. "S-ir," kabado niyang bigkas. "Single?" imbis ay tanong nito kaya mabilis siyang tumango. "Good. Birhen?" sunod na tanong nito kaya nanlaki ang mga mata niya. Hindi siya makasagot. Sasabihin ba niyang may anak na siya at kambal pa? Baka hindi siya nito tanggapin! "Y-es, Sir," pagsisinungaling niya. Marahas itong huminga na tila nahihirapan at nagpipigil. Napaangat nang bahagya ang balikat niya noong tumama doon ang matangos nitong ilong na tila inaamoy siya. Nakiliti pa siya sa mabalbas nitong pangang na humagod sa balat niya. "Perfect for me," halos dumikit pa ang labi nito sa paos nitong bulong kasabay ng pagdiin ng palad nito sa kanyang bewang na tila gusto na siyang sunggaban. Hindi niya alam na kanina pa niya pigil ang paghinga kung hindi lang ito lumayo. "Ikukuha kita ng dress. We'll attend an event," pinal na sambit nito kaya namilog ang mga mata niya. "Po? Sir, hindi po pwedeโ" Mas namilog ang mga niya noong tumama sa mga labi niya ang hintuturo nito upang patigilan siya. "Shhh. Sasama ka. You're now my secretary. Kung nasaan ako, doon ka." madiing sagot nito na akala mo ay hindi iyon big deal. Hindi siya makareklamo. Paglabas ng opisina nito ay gusto niyang ibalik ang cheque. Tinawagan niya rin si Miss Melia. "Hindi ka pwedeng umatras, Lorelei. Lagyan mo limang milyon iyang cheque niya para makabawi ka kung gusto mo. Kumpara sa mga nauna sa'yo, mas pabor si Sir Hector sa'yo. Mag-enjoy ka na lang sa event, Hija." Napirmi ang mga labi niya. Dapat pala pinag-isipan niyang mabuti. Napilitan tuloy siyang mag-ayos. Hindi pa siya kumportable sa baby blue cocktail dress na inorder nito. Yukong-yuko siya noong titigan nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya matapos masulyapan ang madiing titig nito. Para tuloy siyang hindi makahinga sa paninitig nito. Pakiramdam niya ay hinuhubaran na siya nito sa isip pa lang. "Chin up. You look... gorgeous," mahinang papuri nito. Sinubukan nitong hawakan ang bewang niya ngunit umiwas siya. Hilaw siyang ngumiti. "Alis na po tayo para agad makabalik, Sir." Nauna pa siya sa harap ng sasakyan nito. Nanliliit ang tingin nito noong pagbuksan siya ng pinto. Mali ba na umiwas dito? Boss niya ito at mali na magustuhan siya nito. Umikot ito sa driver seat noong makaupo na siya. Namroblema pa siya paano aayusin ang seatbelt ngunit nahigit niya ang hininga noong ito mismo ang umagaw sa seatbelt niya at nag-ayos no'n. Nasamyo niya tuloy ang matapang nitong pabango na may halong lemon. Akala pa niya ay ang air freshener pero hindi, amoy lemon talaga ito at masarap sa ilong. Maliit itong nangunguso noong paandarin ang sasakyan. Umiiwas siya ng tingin dito. Kumakalabog ang dibdib niya ngayong nasa isang sasakyan lang sila. Kinipkip niya pa ang bag sa mga hantad niyang hita. "How old are you, Lorelei?" biglang tanong nito na muntik magpatalon sa kanya sa upuan. "T-wenty five, Sir." "Hm. Never been touched? Never been kissed? And of course, never... Am I right?" senswal at bulgar nitong tanong. Tumiim bagang siya. Alam na niya ang kalibre nito kung bakit gusto nito ng Birhen. Sigurado siyang marami na rin itong naikama at delikado siya kung hindi siya mag-iingat. "I'm not comfortable with tbose questions, Sir," pag-amin niya. Hindi ito kumibo. Nasilip niya ang pagsasalubong ng kilay nito. Nakasandal na nga ang siko nito sa bintana at pinaglalaruan ng mga daliri nito ang ibabang labi nito. Isang kamay lang ang gamit nitong pagdrive. Nakarolyo ang asul na manggas ng longsleeve at ang lakas manampal ng kayamanan ng mamahaling relo nito. "Would you like to pretend to be my girlfriend?" biglang tanong nito sa kawalan. "Po?" Umigting ang panga nito, "My ex will be there with her new boytoy. Ayoko talagang magpunta na mag-isa, but I have to show up. It's business related. Ipapakilala kitang bagong girlfriend ko. Don't worry, I'll pay you for this," paliwanag nito. "Pero, Sirโ" "Just this once, Kitty. After this, you can be just my plain secretary." Napakurap siya at napalinga pa sa backseat kung sino ang tinawag nitong Kitty. "Cute, Kitten," nangingising sambit nito sa reaksyon niya. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Walanghiya! Siya pala ang pusa! Wala rin siyang nagawa noong pagdating nila sa event ay ito mismo ang nag-ayos sa braso niya pakapit sa braso nito. "Just stay beside me, Kitty. Smile as if you are head over heels for me," nakangising paalala nito. Sa dami ng mga bigating tao ay naging peke ang ngiti niya. Sa isang pabilog silang mesa napunta at naupo. Ramdam niya agad ang titig ng isang babae sa kanya na tila gusto siyang patumbahin. "Oh gosh, you got a new girl, Hector. I'm happy for you, Hijo. Hindi sana magloko katulad ng nauna," ani ng isang Ginang na bobo kay Sir Hector. Tumabingi ang ngiti niya habang ang babaeng nakatitig sa kanya ay umirap. Humilig pa ito sa braso ng lalaking katabi. "We should go home early, Babe. Bawal magpuyat ang buntis," dinig niyang bulong nito sa lalaki. Ramdam niya ang paninigas ng katawan ni Hector at kahit nakangiti ito sa mga kausap ay pansin naman niya ang panaka-nakang pag-igting ng panga nito. "Alejandro and I are having a baby boy, Mrs. Sarmiento," dinig niyang sagot ng babae matapos itong tanungin sa pinagbubuntis. Hindi na nga niya ito nilingon bagkus ay natutok ang titig niya kay Hector na naging sunod-sunod ang inom ng alak. Hindi siya nakatiis at inagaw ang brandy na hawak nito at ininom iyon. "What are you doing?" bulong na tanong nito. "Hindi ka pwedeng malasing. Magda-drive ka pa," madiing bulong niya pabalik. Lumapit ito at nagtaasan ang mga balahibo niya noong dumikit ang ilong nito sa leeg niya. "My Kitty is concern," namamaos nitong bulong kasabay pa ng pagdapo ng mainit nitong palad sa hita niya. Ginalaw niya ang hita ngunit dumiin ang kapit nito. Wala tuloy sa sariling napainom siya ng alak. "Crizaa, come back here!" Nabaling ang atensyon niya sa lalaking Alejandro yata ang pangalan. Tinatawag nito ang babaeng masama ang titig sa kanya na nag-walk out ngayon lang. Doon lang nawala sa hita niya ang palad ni Hector. Lumagok pa ito ng alak bago tumayo. "Comfort room," paalam nito pero ang titig ay nasa babaeng papalayo. Hindi niya alam kung bakit nadismaya siyang sinundan nito ang babae. Umiwas na lang siya ng tingin at tahimik na uminom. "Ngayon lang kita nakita, Hija. Gaano na kayo katagal ni Hector? Anim na buwan pa lang naman kasi silang hiwalay ni Crizaa," baling sa kanya ng Ginang kanina. Hilaw siyang napangiti, "Three months po," pagsisinungaling niya. Napatango ito. Mabuti na lang at hindi na ito nagtanong muli dahil hindi na niya alam ang isasagot. Nakuha niyang makaubos ng alak ay hindi na bumalik si Hector. Nahihilo na nga siya noong magpunta sa parking lot para doon ito hintayin. Saktong kapapadala niya ng mensahe sa kapitbahay niyang si Ria para tingnan ang kambal noong mamataan si Hector. Napatuwid siya ng tayo noong makita na itong papalapit. Halatang galit kaya hindi na siya nagtanong. Agad na lang siyang pumasok sa sasakyan noong patunugin nito. Maging sa biyahe ay ramdam niya ang galit nito sa hindi malamang dahilan. Madiin ang hawak nito sa manibela. Isa lang ang sigurado niya. Nakausap nito si Crizaa at tiyak na nabigo ito lalo't noong pagdating nila sa bahay nito ay kitang-kita niya ang bumagsak na luha sa gilid ng mga mata nito. Nahabag siya dito, "Sirโ" "Go home, or if you want, you can sleep in one of the guestrooms. Thank you for today, Lorelei," pagtataboy nito sa kanya. Hindi niya alam kung dahil lang sa kalasingan kaya hindi niya ito maiwan. Naaawa siya rito. Agad siyang kumuha ng tissue, lumuhod sa upuan at inabot ang pisngi nito. Pareho pa silang natigilan noong hawakan nito ang kamay niya. "Don't. I'm not weak," pamimilit nito. Naamoy niya ang brandy sa hininga nito at sa malamang ay pareho lang silang may tama ng alak. Napalunok siya noong matitigan ang mga mata nitong dumilim. Balewala niyang pinunasan muli ang pisngi nito ngunit muli nitong pinigilan ang kamay niya. "S-irโ" "If you keep doing that, sa kama tayo babagsak. Umuwi ka bago pa magbago ang isip ko at ipinid ka sa kama," pagbabanta nito. May choice siya, pinapatakas siya nito pero ang katawan niya ay ayaw kumilos. Baka dahil lasing siya. "Pagbilang ko ng lima, lumabas ka na ng sasakyan. I have no mercy when it comes to bed, Kitten," mabigat na bulong nito. Nanuyo ang lalamunan niya at mas lalong hindi nakakilos. "One," pagsisimula nito, nagsimula rin ang mainit nitong palad na umakyat sa hita niya. "Two, get out, Kitty," sobrang paos na sambit na nito habang ang kamay ay nahanap ang garter ng underwear niya. "P-ero, Sirโ" "Five. Pagmumura pa nito bago hatakin ang bewang niya at siilin siya ng halik. Mabilis nitong hinila ang bewang niya at pinaupo siya sa kandungan nito. Nahatak niya ang longsleeve nito matapos nitong ipasok ang dila sa bibig niya habang ang palad nito ay nahatak paalis ang underwear niya. Nahanap ng palad nito ang pagkababae niya at diniin ang daliri doon na kinasinghap niya. Hindi siya makasabay sa halik nito. Naliliyo siya maging sa paghagod ng mga daliri nito sa pagkababae niya. Nanigas ang mga tuhod niya sa kiliti sa puson niya at pamamasa. Hindi siya makahinga nang maayos. Inayos ng isang palad nito ang mga hita niya at pinwesto sa bawat gilid nito. Marahan itong dumukwang at halos isandal siya sa manibela masiil lang siya ng halik muli. Tuluyan na siyang hindi nakasagot ng halik matapos naging mabilis ang hagod ng mga daliri nito sa kanyang ibaba. Napapasinghap siya at ang maiksing katinuhan sa utak niya ay nasakop na ng impluwensya ng alak. "Ahh!" mahinang halinghing niya noong bumaba ang mga labi nito sa panga niya. "I'm giving you another chance to run. Run, Lorelei," udyok na bulong nito kahit pa binababa na nito ang zipper ng dress na suot niya. Napapikit siya. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya sa sobrang init. Bumakas sa mukha niya ang bahagyang ngiwi noong dumausdos papasok ang isang daliri nito. "Not running away? Baka di ka na makalakad bukas. I'm telling you, I'm big," paos at mabigat muli nitong bulong na tila nagtitimpi. Hindi niya alam ngunit lalo siyang namasa sa boses nito. Doon nga lang nag-sink sa kanya na kapag natuloy sila, malalaman nitong hindi na siya Birhen. Mabilis siyang napamulat sa naisip. Balak niya sana itong itulak ngunit paghigit sa damit nito ang nagawa niya noong dumagdag ang daliri nito sa loob niya at sunod-sunod na umulos. "Lintik" hingal niyang pagmumura. Paano pa siya tatakbo kung ang titig nito sa kanya ay nanlalapa? Maalab at alam niyang hindi na ito mapipigilan. Nagawa nitong alisin ang bestida niya. Nailiyad niya pa ang dibdib ngunit agad na sinakop ng mainit nitong bibig ang isa at halos ubusin nito. Nahatak niya ang braso nito upang doon kumuha ng balanse. hubad na siya lahat habang ito ay kumpleto pa ang suot. Pati ang relo sa bisig nito ay naroon pa. "Uhhhh, S-ir!" hiyaw niya noong lalong bumilis ang mga daliri nito sa loob niya. Hindi niya una iyon pero may hapdi pa rin sa kabila ng sensasyong nararamdaman niya. Bumalik tuloy ang alaala niya kung paano nabuo ang kambal niyang anak. Kagaya ni Sir Hector ang lalaki, may kalakihan ang katawan. Ang pinagkaiba lang ay may rahas ang kilos ni Sir Hector. Naitaas niya ang tuhod noong mamilipit sa sarap ang puson niya. Mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa bibig niya matapos maramdaman ang pag-abot niya sa rurok. Hindi tumigil ang mga daliri nito sa pag-ulos ngunit pinakawalan ng bibig nito ang dibdib niya. Naghahabol siya ng hininga noong nilayuan nito ang leeg niya at dibdib. Wala sa sariling nakagat niya pa ang ibabang labi sa paghugot nito sa mga daliri nito. Gulantang nga lang siyang makitang sisubo nito ang mga iyon. "Sir!" pigil niya dito ngunit wala na, napapikit na ito sa pagsubo no'n. Agad pang ngumisi at bahagyang pumasada ang dila sa ibabang labi nito na tila hindi pa ito kuntento. "Addictive," sobrang paos na sambit nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Alam niyang may tama rin ito sa alak kaya nasabi iyon pero hiyang-hiya siya! Hindi pa siya nakababawi noong marinig ang pagbukas nito sa pinto. Napalunok siya at napakapit sa mga balikat nito noong buhatin siya sa ganoong ayos. Inikot pa nito ang mga hita niya sa bewang nito. "You're Birhen. This will hurt. Hindi pwede sa sasakyan. Saka na... kapag sanay ka na," namimigat nitong bulong na nagpatigil sa paghinga niya. Kumalabog ang dibdib niya. Dumiin ang kapit sa balikat nito noong pumasok ito sa bahay at iakyat siya sa kwarto. Marahan pa siya nitong binagsak sa kama ngunit mabilis na lumuhod sa sahig. Sumisinghap pa lang siya ng paghinga ay pinag-hiwalay na nito ang mga hita niya at agad na sinubsob ang bibig nito sa pagkababae niya. "Sir! Uhโohh!" Pinatigas agad nito ang dila at tinukso-tukso siya. Alam na alam nito ang gagawin. Nawala na nga sa isip niyang hindi pa siya nakapag-shave pero kung hagurin ng dila nito ang ibaba niya ay tila paboritong pagkain nito iyon. "Ahh!" Nailiyad niya ang katawan at naitaas ang bewang na mabilis nitong hinila upang mas maidiin ang bibig nito doon. Ang ngipin nito ay sumasabay kaya halos mahila na niya nang buo ang bedsheet sa nararamdamang init. Pinagpawisan na siya kahit pa malakas ang aircon sa kwarto nito. Hindi yata ito tumigil hangga't hindi naririnig ang mahabang ungol niya, senyales na muli niyang naabot ang langit. Hindi niya maisara ang bibig sa pagsimot nito doon. Kahit noong tumayo na ito ay nanghihina siya at hindi maisara ang mga hita niya. Maliit niyang minulat ang mga mata. Huli niya ang mainit nitong titig sa katawan niya habang nagtatanggal ng kasuotan. Pati mamahaling relo nito ay basta lang nito tinapon sa sofa. Ora mimso noong mahubad nito ang mamahaling boxer short ay gumapang ito sa itaas niya. "Ibuka ang iyong mga binti nang mas malawak, Kitty," senswal nitong utos. Kumakalabog lalo ang dibdib niya at nanunuyo ang lalamunan kahit pa sa hita pa lang niya dumikit ang naghuhumigting nitong sandata. Palad na mismo nito ang humagod sa mga hita niya at mas pinaghiwalay ang mga iyon. Napapikit siya noong tuluyang tumama ang sandata nito sa kaselanan niya. Paulit-ulit na humagod na tila tinutukso siya. Pati ang ilong at bibig nito ay panaka-nakang humalik sa leeg at panga niya na tila dinidistract siya nito. "Sir~" hirap niyang bulong at napakapit sa matigas nitong braso noong maramdaman ang dulo ng sandata nito. Tama ito! Malaki ito at duda siyang kakasya sa kanya. Baka muli lang siyang mapunit nito! Ang balak niyang pagtulak sana dito ay nauwi sa pagkapit sa braso nito noong pilitin nito ang pagpasok. Sumigid ang sakit sa kanya at halos magdugo ang labi sa pagkagat niya. Iyon ang pangalawang beses niya pero sa tagal na siguro ng panahon ay pakiramdam niya, unang beses pa lang niya iyon. Kita niyang umigting ang panga nito at tumalim ang tingin. Kinabahan siyang baka nahuli na siya nito pero nahanap nito ang mga palad niya at parehong pininid sa itaas ng ulo niya. Pinagsalikop nito ang mga kamay nila bago sinagad ang pagpasok na kinahiyaw niya. "Ahh!" Hindi niya ito mapalo, hindi niya mabawi ang mga nakapinid na kamay. Pinuno naman nito ng halik ang mukha niya. "Soon, the pain will fade away, Kitty," panunuyong bulong nito. Hindi na niya makilala ang sariling paghinga. Hinayaan siya nitong kumalma ngunit hindi rin ito nakatiis at nagsimulang umulos nang mabagal. Dinidiinan na lang niya ang kapit sa mga kamay nito kapag sinasagad nito nang buo sa loob niya. Dinig niya ang magaspang nitong ungol at tila nahihirapan ding bumayo sa loob niya. Para itong nagtitimpi sa mabagal na paggalaw. "H-indi ka gumamit ng goma, Sir," wala sa sariling sambit niya. "Doesn't matter. I will do withdrawal, don't worry," pagpapakalma nito. Ilang beses siyang lumunok. Ang balakang niya ay napapataas noong bumilis nang bahagya ang galaw nito. Malinaw sa pandinig niya ang pagsusumpungan ng mga kaselanan nila. Nangangalay ang mga hita niya sa pagkakahiwalay at halos lumubog sa kama sa laki ng katawan nito. "Ow!" malakas niyang hiyaw na hindi niya alam kung ilang beses niya naisigaw noong dumoble ang bilis nito. Para itomg may hinahabol at hindi magkamayaw. Ang kama nito ay tumutunog kasabay ng tunog ng kanilang mga katawan. Para itong nawala sa sarili at nagsunod-sunod ang pagbayo sa loob niya. Naghalo ang pawis nila at maging mga ungol. Napuno ang kwarto ng mga hiyaw niya. Nanghihina na siya noong maramdamang malapit na siya. Nagmadali rin ito at sunod sunod ang ulos hanggang sa magkapanabay silang mapaungol. Pinakawalan nito ang mga kamay niya kasabay ng mainit na likidong bumuhos sa loob niya. Parang tumigil ang tibok ng puso niya. Sa loob nito pinutok! Kinabahan siya. Hinihingal itong bumagsak sa itaas niya. "Sleep, Kitty," inaantok pa nitong bulong. Nataranta siya at gusto itong itulak ngunit napakalaki nito. Sumiksik pa ito sa dibdib niya at wala yatang pakialam kahit nasa loob pa niya ang sandata nito! "Sir, uuwi po ako," pilit niyang gising at tulak dito ngunit humigpit ang yakap nito sa bewang niya. "Later, stay still. Huwag kang gagalaw. Huwag mong gisingin," halos bulong na lang na sambit nito. Nanlamig siya sa tinutukoy nito. Pati tuloy paghinga niya ay napigilan niya huwag lang magising ang sandata nito. Para siyang timang na naghintay na humiwalay ito ngunit hindi niya rin namalayang nakatulog na siya. Paggising ay sikat ng araw ang tumama sa mga mata niya. Nasilaw siya at nahirapang magmulat ng mga mata. Masakit ang katawan niya, partikular ang pagkababae niya at mga hita. Doon nga lang din rumehistro sa kanya ang nangyari kagabi. "Punyeta!" napamura siya matapos matantong umaga na pero naroon pa rin siya sa kwarto ni Sir Hector. Mabilis niyang nilingon ang katabi ngunit wala na ito doon. Hindi na nga niya maalala kung ano'ng oras ito umalis sa itaas niya. Hihinga na sana siya nang maluwag kung hindi lang naramdaman ang madiing titig sa kanya na tumatagos sa balat niya. Napalunok siya at unti-unting napatingin sa harap niya. Sumikdo ang dibdib niya at nahila ang kumot. Naroon sa paanan niya si Sir Hector, nakaayos na ng business suit, nakapamulsa habang may hawak na baso ng brandy. Pinaghalong madiin at malamig na titig ang natanggap niya dito at noong liningon nito ang kama na walang bahid ng dugo, alam na niya agad ang nasa isip nito. "S-ir, m-agpapaliwanag po ako," sobrang kabang sambit niya lalo't tumalim ang titig nito at umigting ang panga. | Philip Spicy Reading | 83301 | https://www.facebook.com/61561349855790/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679697 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567636 | 1745816685 | 2451 | mindway.app | Learn More | DCO | Chronic Overthinking Test ๐ | {{product.description}} | https://mindway.app/start?qz=mw1 | 2.1357182184276E+14 | Mindway | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471641235_1312069063270437_9000915967974871235_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BIHeSfEemY0Q7kNvgEdBg_R&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYC96Z81pcMlMy4tA8lddnw8RHUz9Jxrd9T8x-5LqFNL7A&oe=67A62C0D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | โจ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ Stop overthinking and start living today โจ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ ๐ฏ Boost confidence: Develop strategies for better decision making and self-esteem ๐ซ Eliminate negative thoughts: Learn how to identify and reduce toxic thought patterns โ Live in the present moment: Become calm, happy, and trust your intuition | Mindway | 19606 | https://www.facebook.com/61555945144541/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679737 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/9/25, 4:57 PM | 1738567644 | 1749506234 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | IMAGE | Concrete Driveways: save $3500 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474554704_1150889619768468_2744715003877242969_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZkKmCljlV2gQ7kNvgG4EUcn&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYBRggJmCtybDI1L5XV7iq8_-XGE-3FlaA4SNRABeoLlwA&oe=67A6304D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hey there, I'm Richard, owner of Allenโs Concrete Driveways! The cost of concrete is currently low. We donโt know how long this will last but we will pass $3500 in savings on to you! Just fill out the form to get a Quote on your Concrete Driveway Installation ๐ก Proudly local, we're passionate about enhancing the beauty & value of our community's homes. Serving Rock Hill, Charlotte, Gastonia, Huntersville, Indian Trail & surrounding areas! Get Your Free Quote! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679625 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/9/25, 3:41 PM | 1738567631 | 1749501684 | 2451 | medieats.com | Learn more | IMAGE | Feel Lighter in 4 Weeks โจ | Drop 50+ lbs with personalized weight management plan! | https://medieats.com/pcos-diet | 2.1954407456635E+14 | Dr. Olivia Peterson - Health & Nutrition | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475768472_1143282947177807_7307076001321852214_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Svmfl0y9dzUQ7kNvgG0CUr3&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYABerBcgwvo89aQDHABqFf8LsjEEj1wyFqgAr1NzRuUzQ&oe=67A62C72 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ฅณ Day 1: Bloating? Gone. ๐ Day 2: Feel an unstoppable energy boost. ๐ Day 3: Your digestion finally feels "regular." ๐คฏ Day 4: Sugar cravings? Gone. ๐ Day 5: Glow up! Skin & hair look youthful. ๐ Day 6: Calm, relaxed, and pain-free. ๐ By Day 28 โ Youโll feel lighter, more confident & see visible results! Join thousands transforming their health in just 4 weeks! Ready to feel amazing? ๐ | Dr. Olivia Peterson - Health & Nutrition | 480 | https://www.facebook.com/61555162705265/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679626 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/9/25, 5:48 PM | 1738567631 | 1749509313 | 2451 | medieats.com | Learn more | IMAGE | Feel Lighter in 4 Weeks โจ | Drop 50+ lbs with personalized weight management plan! | https://medieats.com/pcos-diet | 2.1954407456635E+14 | Dr. Olivia Peterson - Health & Nutrition | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475665974_922725906730669_7944652937209115497_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgyoP_yrB_EQ7kNvgHxzKX2&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYD6vnLWTNDDKO7Xctc5kGdKjrvL3mKjGsysNyY58aiYnA&oe=67A6521F | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ฅณ Day 1: Bloating? Gone. ๐ Day 2: Feel an unstoppable energy boost. ๐ Day 3: Your digestion finally feels "regular." ๐คฏ Day 4: Sugar cravings? Gone. ๐ Day 5: Glow up! Skin & hair look youthful. ๐ Day 6: Calm, relaxed, and pain-free. ๐ By Day 28 โ Youโll feel lighter, more confident & see visible results! Join thousands transforming their health in just 4 weeks! Ready to feel amazing? ๐ | Dr. Olivia Peterson - Health & Nutrition | 480 | https://www.facebook.com/61555162705265/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679692 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/3/25, 3:05 PM | 1738567636 | 1748981115 | 2451 | kosstom.com | Shop Now | CAROUSEL | Wear Art, Not Just a Hat | A masterpiece on your head. | https://kosstom.com/en-us/products/eugenia-in-black?_pos=2&_sid=431d41c28&_ss=r&variant=42330379223212_pos=2&_sid=431d41c28&_ss=r&variant=42331097727148 | 1.0470698854553E+14 | Kosstom | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475645899_1292885961983454_672095985673590361_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JhbM_wjZaewQ7kNvgG8M3RP&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYBA2pb0oyPgHPPRe4TjSbPTOKdaEAOxrHTsDmYVI-j1ow&oe=67A64CD0 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | A masterpiece on your head. | Kosstom | 62 | https://www.facebook.com/kosstomhat/ | 0 | SHOP_NOW | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679765 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/9/25, 9:15 PM | 1738567646 | 1749521733 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get quote | IMAGE | Concrete Driveways: Starting at $1499 | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473538515_971346671556681_7737179619045437586_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YWoTYr5bLVgQ7kNvgHFyRhl&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYDEcGJgiBCbjhJ5vG5cmdmCr8T-0lQOzIjsRdAqet52oA&oe=67A62852 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hey there, I'm John, owner of J&D Concrete Driveways! The cost of concrete is currently low. We donโt know how long this will last but we will pass massive savings on to you! Get your new Concrete Driveway installed for as low as $1499. Just fill out the form to get a Quote! ๐ก Proudly local, we're passionate about enhancing the beauty & value of our community's homes. Serving Fort Worth, Dallas, Arlington, Irving, Grand Prairie & surrounding areas! Get Your Free Quote! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679701 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/9/25, 8:52 PM | 1738567637 | 1749520366 | 2451 | mindway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Chronic Overthinking Test ๐ | https://mindway.app/start?qz=mw1&locale=EN_US | 2.1357182184276E+14 | Mindway | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471916423_586178174130811_1611599652328384487_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=37az1_Htf5MQ7kNvgG5HTs0&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYAdFXaJvONAoQT_4fCXs1iLnpEnK8ztLsGDl6aTuW4UVg&oe=67A63819 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | โจ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ Stop overthinking and start living today โจ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ ๐ฏ Boost confidence: Develop strategies for better decision making and self-esteem ๐ซ Eliminate negative thoughts: Learn how to identify and reduce toxic thought patterns โ Live in the present moment: Become calm, happy, and trust your intuition | Mindway | 19606 | https://www.facebook.com/61555945144541/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679556 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/9/25, 10:43 PM | 1738567626 | 1749526988 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465701561_1260669235131672_4796270762298070218_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GMTPj6qjxTcQ7kNvgGojJND&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYCwKv6JNFux_9I0EsKjA59S_KedNWrGnfNLLBOr9owKrQ&oe=67A64A5B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679661 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/10/25, 8:41 AM | 1738567633 | 1749562918 | 2451 | go.savantz.ai | Learn more | IMAGE | Transform Text Into Videos in Minutes ๐ฅโจ | Discover how Savantz AI makes video creation fast, professional, and easy with just a few clicks | https://go.savantz.ai/bookdemo?utm_source=Facebook+Ads&utm_medium=%7B%7Bcampaign.name%7D%7D&utm_campaign=%7B%7Badset.name%7D%7D&utm_content=%7B%7Bad.name%7D%7D | 2.100856988556E+14 | Savantz.AI | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468440800_1264848474711420_8962918806506132652_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_OlNf5KzeTMQ7kNvgGxM2-q&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYAb74aUFbmV4VWnmuoR6x1tsAx-EJXePN_Km51QbYOxnA&oe=67A64135 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Tired of spending hours editing videos? Say hello to Savantz AI, the tool that transforms your text or audio into stunning videos with just a few clicks. ๐ฌ Here's why you'll love it: Quick & Easy: Upload your text, pick a style, and voilaโyour video is ready! Customizable: Choose from professional styles to match your brand. Team-Friendly: Collaborate in real-time with your team. No Experience Needed: Perfect for beginners and pros alike. ๐ Join our FREE live demo and see how Savantz AI makes video creation fast, fun, and stress-free. ๐ Click The Link Below To Book Your Demo Now: https://go.savantz.ai/bookdemo ๐ข Donโt miss outโturn your ideas into high-impact videos today! | Savantz.AI | 37 | https://www.facebook.com/Savantzai/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679555 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/10/25, 10:58 AM | 1738567626 | 1749571092 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | IMAGE | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471190144_1112136040297424_8115574449505737725_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_qh99EUrQLYQ7kNvgHmzrJW&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYAdFGF_7tjqtoZoWGp2HXpoDjfJAsESY0J7AesbLhiWQg&oe=67A638A8 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679579 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/10/25, 11:17 AM | 1738567628 | 1749572251 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465619534_864633605744352_3259129062398297795_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=v8I77oQSpygQ7kNvgHR8qPv&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYCnxVJomXW5nl7OIliny1AvWXTl4j5bUjFVPk-yatxLtw&oe=67A63712 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679578 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/13/25, 7:09 AM | 1738567628 | 1749816573 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465900940_1071637248023229_3314508787779834629_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=343nqUp3-HEQ7kNvgFTS2NI&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYBl8CmJm6D3Gq3C2iQ9gWzXHLfej6LhwqxP6BdWFg7gDw&oe=67A63189 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679608 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/9/25, 10:12 PM | 1738567630 | 1749525130 | 2451 | greenchef.com | Get Offer | DCO | 50% Off + 20% for 2 Months | Don't miss out! | https://www.greenchef.com/plans/?c=FB-2GPY&mealsize=2-3&dm=meals&utm_source=meta&utm_medium=cpm&utm_campaign=Paid_Social_Meta_cg_NC_ML_9___50-20x8_sk-nofs___GC-BAU-50Off+20Off-No-Free-Shipping__&utm_content=act_paidsocial_paidsocial&vs_campaign_id=6bd3225a-96b2-48b6-b0ba-f220e7943eb4&discount_comm_id=122687d8-29cb-4b92-87c8-b5e9a6f57b65 | 1.513522665533E+15 | Green Chef | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475026147_1979102562601391_4351958425904711225_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ce_mPxqYnVsQ7kNvgHFos4G&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYAefYn-eAM6jAh3qziPG47ZMl1hMfI1X3h7NjDoH6W8XQ&oe=67A658E0 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Why Green Chef?๐ ๐ค Get 50% Off Your First Box ๐ +20% for 2 Months ๐ฅฆ Veggie, Keto and GF plans ๐ฅ Quick & Easy meals | Green Chef | 374792 | https://www.facebook.com/GreenChefPage/ | 0 | GET_OFFER | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679702 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/13/25, 12:30 PM | 1738567637 | 1749835840 | 2451 | fbweb.cdreader.com | Learn more | VIDEO | https://fbweb.cdreader.com/130956449-fb_contact-fta298_4-1115-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=483002854471711&exdata=CB9619D6F7562EA545166092BF65A04E1394828C5FBD0587 | 4.1439049508215E+14 | Lucky Reading | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475979146_915011040782488_3112950629593930266_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=q3Nde1e3Rz0Q7kNvgHt33wt&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYDHSQ5ILO41-GNz9WURWG0wmC-pcwYg4K0aNNnGPsSGzQ&oe=67A64A51 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๅฅน็ฉๆๆธฃ็ท๏ผๅๅ่ชๅทฑ๏ผๅพฉไป่ๆธฃ๏ผ่ฎ่ฝ้ญ็ๅฎถๆ้ๅๅทๅณฐใๆธฃ็ท่ฆ็ๆ ไบ๏ผๅฟๆฑๅ่ซ๏ผๅป็ผ็พๅฅน่ขซไป็ไบฌๅๅคงไฝฌๅฐๅๆฑๅจๆท่ฃก๏ผโไปฅๅพ๏ผๅซๅฐๅฌธๅฌธ๏ผโ ===== โไธๅฅฝไบ๏ผๆถๅญๅกไบ๏ผๅฟซๆไบบใโ ่่บๅ่จๆๆญๅปบ็ๆฃๆถๅก็็ไธๅ้ฒ๏ผใๆฒๆ ่ถ่ฎใ็้ๅฅณไธปๅๅๅนพๅไผด่ๅ จ้ฝๆๅจไบๅฐไธ๏ผๅ ด้ขไธ็ๆททไบใ ๅๆญฒๆญฒ็ๅทฆ่ ณๅกๅจไบๆท่ฃ็ๆจๆฟไธญๆฝไธๅบไพ๏ผ้ๆไธ็ฅๆฏ่ชฐๅไบไธ่ฒ๏ผโๅฟซ้้๏ผ็็ท่ฆๆทไบใโ ๅฅนๆ ไบๆฌ้ ญ๏ผ็บไบๆดๅฅฝ็ๅ็พ่่บๆๆ๏ผ้ๅ ทๅธซๅฐ้็ต่ฃไบๆฐดๆถ็ป็ๅ็๏ผ่ๆญคๅปๅฐฑๆธๅจๅฅน็้ ญไธๆๆๆฌฒๅขใ ๅฆๆ็ ธไธไพ๏ผไธๆญปไนๅพ้ๅทใ ๅฅนๅๅพ่่ฒๆ ็ฝ๏ผๆผๅฝๅปๆฝ่ชๅทฑ็ๅทฆ่ ฟ๏ผๅๅทฎไธ้ฝ็ๆทๆจ็ฌ้ๅ็ ดไบ่่๏ผ่ก็ ๆปพ่ฝใ ๅฆๆ็กฌๆฝๅบๅป๏ผๅๆข่ ฟ็็ฎ่้ฝๅพ่ขซๆฏไธไพใ ๅฅน็กๅฉๅฐ็ๅ่บไธ๏ผๆญฃๅฅฝ็ๅฐไธ้็ๆ็่บซๅฝฑ้ฃๅฟซ่กไบ้ไพใ ๆฏๅ ้ฒๅบญใ ๅฅนๆญกๅไผธๆ๏ผ้ๆฒไพๅพๅ้ๅฃ่ชช่ชๅทฑ็ๆ ๆณ๏ผ็ทไบบๅทฒ็ถ่ถ้ๅฅน่ทๅไบๆ่ถดๅจๅฐไธ็็งฆ่ฒ๏ผ้ท่ไธๆๅฐไบบ็ท็ท่ญทๅจไบ่ธๅฃใ โๅฅๆ๏ผๆๅธถไฝ ไธๅปใโ โ้ฒๅบญๅฅ๏ผโ ๅฅณไบบๅญ่็ฐไฝ็ทไบบ็่ๅญ็็็ผๆใ ็ทไบบๅ่ผๆ็ๅ่๏ผๅฐไบบๆๆฉซๆฑ่ตทๅฟซ้่ตฐไธ่่บ๏ผ่ชๅง่ณ็ต๏ผ้ฝๆฒๆ็ๅๅฅนไธ็ผใ ๆๆ๏ผๅฅน้ขไปๆ่ฟใ ๆๆ๏ผๅฅนๆๆฏไป็ๆชๅฉๅฆปใ ็็ทๆท่ฃ๏ผ่่บ้ทๅ ฅไธ็้ปๆใ ๅ ๅฝฑๆถๅคฑ็้ฃไธๅป๏ผๅๆญฒๆญฒๅง็ตๆฒๆ็ญไพๅ ้ฒๅบญ็ๅ้ ญใ ๆฑ็็ๆฌ่ฝ่ฎๅฅนๆญปๆญปๅฌไฝๅ็ฃๆณ็จ่ ปๅๅฐ่ ฟๆฝๅบไพ๏ผ่ณ้ๅฟฝ็ถ่ฝๅฐไธ่ฒๆจ้ ญ่ขซๆ้ฃ็ๅๅ่ฒใ ๅฅน็ๅทฆ่ ฟ็ฌ้็ฒๅพ่ช็ฑ๏ผไธไธๅปๅฐฑ่ขซไธ้ปๆๅ็ๅคงๆๆฑไฝๆฝ้ขไบๅไพ็ไฝ็ฝฎใ โ็ ฐ!โ ๆฐดๆถๅ็็ ธ่ฝๅจๅฐไธ๏ผ็ป็็ข็ๅๆฟบ่้ฃใ ๅฅนไธๆ่ญๆฌ่ตทๆ่ๆณๆไฝ่๏ผๅป็ผ็พๆไบบๆๅจไบไป็ๅ้ขใ ็ๅ ๅพๅฟซๆขๅพฉ๏ผ่่บไธไธ็ๆ ็ใ ๅฅน็ผๅๅปๆฒไบไบบใ ๅฅนๆ ไบ็็ฐ้กงๅๅจ๏ผๅๅฐ็ฎๅ ่ฝๅจไบๅ ้ฒๅบญ็่บซไธใ ๅๅๅ็ๅข่ฝ็็ฌ้๏ผไปๆญฃๅด่บซ่ญท่ๆท่ฃก็ๅฅณไบบใ ๆญคๅปๅงฟๅขๆฒ่ฎ๏ผๅฅณไบบ็ๆ้็ฐๅจไป็่ ฐไธใ ๅๆญฒๆญฒๅฟไธญ่ฆ็ฌใ ๅฅน็ซๆ้ฃ้บผไธ็ฌ้ไปฅ็บๆฏๅ ้ฒๅบญๅป่ๅพฉ่ฟไพๆๅฅนไบใ โ้ๅ ทๅธซ๏ผ้ๆ้บผๅไบ๏ผ้็่ฆๆฏ็ ธๅฐไบบ๏ผๆๅบไบบๅฝ็๏ผโ ๅฐๆผๆฐฃ็ๆด่ทณๅฆ้ท๏ผ้ๅ ทๅธซๆฅๆฅ่งฃ้ๆจๅธ่่ฒฌไปปใ ๅง้ฌงไนไธญ๏ผๅ ้ฒๅบญ็ตๆผๅฐ็ฎๅ ่ฝๅไบๅฅน๏ผ็ๅฟ็บ่๏ผๅทๅณป็้็ธๅๅจๅฅนๅๅท็ๅทฆ่ ฟไธ๏ผ่ท้ขๅคช้ ๏ผ็ฅๆ ็ไธ็ๅใ ็็ธฎๅจไปๆท่ฃก็็งฆ่ฒๅฟฝๅฐ้ฉๅผๅบ่ฒ๏ผโๆญฒๆญฒ๏ผไฝ โฆโฆไฝ ่ฆๆฎบไบๆๅ๏ผโ ๅฅน้ไธ่ฒๅๅฐๆดๅ็ฆฎๅ ็่ฒ้ณๅ จ้จๅฃไบไธๅปใ ๅ ้ฒๅบญ็่่ฒ้ฐๆฒๅฆๆฐดใ โๅฐๅบๆ้บผๅไบ๏ผโ ็งฆ่ฒ็็ผๆทๅนพไนๅฅช็ถ่ๅบใ โๆญฒๆญฒๅ้็็ท๏ผๆ็ๅฐไบ๏ผๅฏๆ็ถๆๆฒๅคๆณใ็ป่บไนๅๅฅน่ทๆๅต้๏ผ่ชชๆไธ้ ่ทๅฅน็ซถ็ญ็ๅๅ็ๅ้ก๏ผๅฏๆๅชๅไบ้ฃ้บผไน ๏ผๆๆณ่ฉฆ่ฉฆโฆโฆโ ๅฅนๆท็ผๅฉๅจ็็ๅๅ ้ฒๅบญ๏ผโๆๅชๆฏๆณ่ฟฝๆฑๆ็ๅคขๆณ๏ผๆๆฒๆณๅฐๅฅนๆ็จ้็จฎๆนๅผใโ ใๆฒๆ ่ถ่ฎใๆฏๅญธๆ ก่ฉฑๅๅๆจๅบ็็ๅ๏ผ้ๅฅณไธปๆผๅบ๏ผๆฏๅญธๆ กๅพ็ๅๅ่ผธ้ไบบๆ็ๆฒ้็ฃใ ๅฏๅ้กๅชๆไธๅ๏ผๆๆไบบ้ฝ็ฅ้๏ผๆๅจๅๆญฒๆญฒๅ็งฆ่ฒไน้้ธๅบๆดๅช่ ใ ไผด่็พคไธญๆไบบ็ผ่ฒใ โ่ฆๆฏ่่บๆฒๆๅก็่ฉฑ๏ผๆ็ ง็ซไฝ๏ผ้ฃๅๅ็็็ๆ็ ธๅจ็งฆ่ฒ็้ ญไธใโ โๅคฉๅถ๏ผ่ฆๆฏ่ทณ่่็ๆๅ่ขซ็ ธไธญ๏ผ่ฏๅฎๆฏ็ ธๅฐ่ ฆ่ข๏ผ้ฃไบบ้่ฝๆดปๅ๏ผ็บไบไธๅๅ้ก๏ผๅ็ไนๅคช็ ไบๅง๏ผโ โๅช่ฃกๆฏ็บไบไธๅๅ้ก๏ผๅ ็ธฝๅๆญก็งฆ่ฒ๏ผๅๆญฒๆญฒไป่่ชๅทฑๆฏๅ ็ธฝๅฎถ่ฃก็ตฆๅฎ็ๆชๅฉๅฆป๏ผ็งไธ่ฃกไธ็ดๅจๆฌบ่ฒ ๆๅฃ็งฆ่ฒ๏ผๆ็ๅ๏ผๅฐฑ็ฎๆฒๆๅ้ก๏ผๅฅนไนๆณๅผๆญป็งฆ่ฒใโ ็งฆ่ฒ็ผไธญ้้ๅ่ฒ๏ผๅป้ฑ่็ๆฅตๅฅฝใ ๅฅนๆๅผฑ็ๆฏไบๆฏๅ ้ฒๅบญ็่ขๅญใ โ้ฒๅบญๅฅ๏ผๅนธๅฅฝไฝ ๆไบๆ๏ผ้ไปถไบโฆโฆๅฐฑ็ฎไบๅงใโ ๅฅน็ๅ่ฏๅคงๅบฆ่ฎๅจๅ็่ญฐ่ซ่ฒๆดๅ ๆฒธๆฒธๆๆ๏ผ็่ณๆไบบๆคๆๆ่ญฐ็ดๆฅๅ ฑ่ญฆ๏ผๅดๆฒๆฎบไบบๅ ๆใ ๅๆญฒๆญฒๆญปๆญปๆฅ่ๅฐๆ๏ผๅฐ่่ผ็ฝๅๅผทใ โ้ฃๅฐฑๅ ฑ่ญฆ๏ผๆๆฒๆๅ็ไบๆ ๏ผๆไธ่ช๏ผโ โ่ก้ฌง๏ผโๅ ้ฒๅบญ่่ฒ้ต้๏ผโไฝ ้ๅซไธๅค ไธไบบๅ๏ผโ ไธๅฅ่ฉฑ๏ผๅๅฏฆไบไธๅใ ๅๆญฒๆญฒๅช่ฆบๅพๅฟๅฃ่ขซ็กฌ็็ๆ่ฃไบไธ้ๅไธ้่กๆทๆท็ๅฃๅญใ ไธๆๅฅน๏ผไธไฟกๅฅนใ ๅฅน็ฌฌไธๆฌก็ผ็พ๏ผๅฅน็ฑ็็ๆผ็กๅ จๅๅปๆ็ไธๅไบบ๏ผ้ฃไธ่ง้ฝๆฏๆญช็ใ โๆๆฒๆๅฎณ้ๅฅน๏ผโ ็ฌฌ2็ซ ้ไปถไบ๏ผๅฐๆญค็บๆญข ๅฅนๆฟ่ๅ็ฃ๏ผๅทๆ็ๅ ๆ็ณ่จดใ ็ทไบบๅปๆ นๆฌๆฒ็๏ผๅทๅฒ็็ธๅ ็ๅๅฐๆผใ โ้ไปถไบ๏ผๅฐๆญค็บๆญขใโ ่ชชๅฎไฝ้ ญ็ๅ็งฆ่ฒ๏ผโๆ่ ้็ผๅ๏ผๆ้ไฝ ๅป้ซ้ขใโ ๅฅณไบบๅฌ็พ็็ด ไบ่๏ผ่ขซไปๆฌ่ๅจ็พไบบ็็็ฎไธ็็้ข้ใ ๅๆญฒๆญฒ็้่ ฟๅนพไน็ซไธไฝ๏ผๅพน้ชจ็ๅฏๅทๅฐๅฅนๅๅฌใ ้ฃๅๅพๅฐ้ชๅฅนไธ่ตท้ทๅคง็ๅ ้ฒๅบญ๏ผๅไธๆฌกๆฏซไธ็ถ่ฑซ็ๅฐๅฅนไธๅไบบๆ้ฒไบ้ขจๆดไธญๅฟใ ๆๆ่ขซ้ๆฌกๆๅค้ฃ็ดฏ็ไบบ๏ผ้ฝๆจไธๅพๅไธๅฃๅพๆฒซๆๅญๅจๅฅน่ไธใ ๅฐๆผ็ถๅณๅฐฑๅฐๅฅน้้คๅบไบๆ กๅๅ๏ผ้่ชชๆฏ็ๅจๅ ้ฒๅบญๆฒๆ่ฟฝ็ฉถ็้ขๅญไธใ ๅฅนๅพๅๅ็ๆๆฅไนๆ๏ผๆไบ็พไบบๅฒ่ซท็ๅฐไธใ ็ฑ้ฌง็ๅคง็ฆฎๅ ๅพๅฟซ็ฉบ็กไธไบบใ ๅฅน่ฑ้ฃ็้ๅๅฝทๅฝฟ็ไบ้็้่ ฟ๏ผไธๆญฅไธ็ธ็ๅพๅค่ตฐใ ่ ฟไธ็ๅทๅฃ้ฎฎ่กๅทฒ็ถๅๅบ๏ผๆไบๆจๅฑ๏ผ็ผ็้ฝๅฟใ ็ฆฎๅ ๅค้ปๆผๆผ็็ณ้่ขซ้ก็ถไบฎ่ตท็่ป็็ ง็ๅฎๅฆ็ฝๆใ ๅพๆ่ป้ๆ้๏ผ็ทไบบๆบๆฌ็่บซๅฝข้่ๅ ่ไพ๏ผๆทฑ้ๅท้็ไบๅฎ๏ผๅจๅ ๅฝฑไนๅค้ๆผธๆธ ๆฐใ ๅๆญฒๆญฒๆฃๅจ็ถๅ ดใ โๅฐโฆโฆๅฐๅ๏ผโ ็ขบๅไพ่ชช๏ผๆฏๅ ้ฒๅบญ็ๅฐๅใ ๅชๆฏๅ ฉๅฎถ่จไบๅจๅจ่ฆช๏ผๅพๅฐๅฐๅคง๏ผๅ ้ฒๅบญ็ๆๆ่ฆชไบบ๏ผ้คไบ็ธ็ธๅชฝๅชฝ๏ผๅฅน้ฝๆฏๆ็ งๅ ้ฒๅบญ็็จฑๅผๅจๅซไบบใ โๅฏใโ ็ทไบบไฝๆฒ็ๅ้ณ๏ผๅฆ่ทณๅๅจๅคงๆ็ดไธ็้ณ็ฌฆ๏ผๆ ่ณๆงๆ๏ผ้ฃ้ๆไบๅขจ่ฌ็็ธๅญ่ฝๅจๅฅน็ๅทๅฃ่้ ไบ้ ใ โๆฑไฝ ไธ่ป๏ผโ ๅพฎๅพฎไธๆ็ๅฐพ้ณ๏ผๆฏๅฏกๆทก็่ฉขๅใ ๅฏ่ฝๅจๅๆญฒๆญฒ็่ณๆต่ฃก๏ผๅปๅๅคไบไบๆช็ฐ็ๅณ้ใ ๅฅนๅๅพ็ด ไบ่๏ผๅฐๆๆ ไบ็ๆบไบๆบใ โไธโฆโฆไธ็จ๏ผโ ้็ถๆฏ้ท่ผฉ๏ผๅฏๅ ๅฎดๅกตๅชๆฏๅฅนๅคงไบๅๆญฒ๏ผ่ไธไฟ้ค็ๆฅตๅฅฝใ ็ก่ซๆฏ่บซๆ้ๆฏๆจฃ่ฒ๏ผๆฏๅ ้ฒๅบญ้ฝ่ฆๅบ่ฒๅพๅคใ ็พไบบๅณ่จไปๆๆฏ็ๆญฃ็ไบฌๅๅคงไฝฌใ ๅๅ ไธๅจ่บซๅจๅด็ๆฐฃๅ ด๏ผๅธถ่็ไบบๅฟ่ฟ็ๅทๆผ ๏ผไผผไน้ไธไธๆฒๆ่ชฐ่ฝๅ ฅไป็็ผใ ๅฅนๅฏไปฅๅฐๅ ๅฎถๅ ถไป้ท่ผฉๆๅฌ๏ผๅปๅฏ็จไธๆขๅฐไปใ ็ทไบบ็็ฎๅ ๆฒๆฒ็่ฝๅจๅฅน็้ ญ้ ๏ผๅฟฝๅฐๆฌ่ตทไบไธ้ปๆ่๏ผ็ฒพ็ทป็้ฝ็ณ่ข้ฆ่ฅฏ่ๆๆๆฝคๆพคๅฆ็ใ โๆถไฝ ๏ผโ ๅๆญฒๆญฒๅ่ฆๆ็ต๏ผๅป็ฅ่ฆ็ทไบบๆๆ้ ่ฟๆๅฟ็ไธๅดๆไธ้ๅถๆฐ็ๅ็ใ ๅทๅฃๆปฒๅบ็่ก้ฝๆฒๆๅฎๅ จๅนนๆใ ๅฅนๅฟฝๅฐๆ่ญๅฐไป้บผ๏ผๆฅๅฟไผธๆๆกไฝๅฐๆดๅๆๅฟ็ฟป่ฝ้ไพใ ๆธ้ๅ็้ฏ็ถๆฉซ้ณ๏ผ้ฝๆฏๆฐๅทใ ็ๅ ไบฎ่ตทไพ็ๆๅ๏ผๅฅน็้ๅฐไฝๅฅน็ๆจๆฟ๏ผๆฏ่ขซไบบ็กฌ็็ๅพๅๅฃ่ๆฐ้็ใ ๅฅน้ผปๅญๆไบ็ผ้ ธ๏ผๆก่็ทไบบๆ่ ็ๆๆไธ็ฑ็จไบๅ๏ผๆ้ชจ้ฝๆไบ็ผ็ฝใ โ่ฆ็ๅคไน ๏ผโ็ทไบบไฝๆฒ็่ฒ้ณไพ่ๆทกๆทก็ใ ๅๆญฒๆญฒๅพๆ ็ทไธญๆฝๅ็ๆบ๏ผๆๆ่ญๅฐ่ชๅทฑ็่ๅ็ฏไบ็ฆๅฟใ ๅฅนๆ ๅฟ้ฌ้๏ผไธๅผต่ผ็ฝ็ๅฐ่ๅนพไน็ด ้ใ โๅฐโฆโฆๅฐไธ่ตท๏ผๆ็ตฆไฝ ๆฆไนพๆทจใโ ๅ ๅฎดๅกตๆๅพๅด้็ๆฝ็๏ผไธฆไธๆฏ้ซ็พๅจๆฅๅธธ็็จๅไธ๏ผ่ๆฏ่งธ็ขฐใ ไป่จๅญๅฅไบบ็ขฐไป๏ผๆๅคง็ๅฎนๅฟๅฐฑๆฏ้่่กฃๆใ ่จไบ่ตท๏ผๅฐฑ้ฃ่็บๅญไป้ฝไธ่ฎๆฑ๏ผๅญไบบไฟๅง่ชฐ่ฆ็ขฐไบไป็่บซ้ซ๏ผไปไธๅฎๆๆดๅพไน ใ ้ๆฏๅ ๅฎถ็็ฆๅฟใ ๅๆญฒๆญฒๆ ไบ็ๅปๆพๆถๆฏๆบผๅทพ๏ผๅป็ผ็พ่ชๅทฑๆ นๆฌๆฒๅธถใ โๆๅป่ฒทๆฐดใโ ็ทไบบๅฐๆ้ๆฐ็ฟป่ฝ๏ผๆ่ๅไธ้ฑๅปไบๅท็ใ โไธๅฟ ๏ผๆถไฝ ไธ่ป๏ผไฝ ็ๅทๅฃ้่ฆ่็ใโ ๅๆญฒๆญฒๅชๆขๅ็ขฐ๏ผ่ช ๆถ่ช ๆ็่ชๅทฑๆชๅฐไบ่ป้ใ ็ญ้ฝๅฐๅพๆๅไธไปฅๅพๆๅฟฝ็ถๆ่ญๅฐ๏ผๅฅนๅฎๅ จๅฏไปฅๅปๆ ก้ซๅฎค่็๏ผๆ นๆฌไธ็จ้บป็ ฉๅฅไบบใ ๅฏๅฅนๆฒไพๅ้ๅฃ๏ผ็ทไบบๅทฒ็ถไธ่ปใ ๆฌไพๅฏฌๆ็ๅพๆ็ฉบ้๏ผๅ ็บ้ฃ้้ท่ ฟ๏ผ่่ฎๅพ้ผไปๆๆ ใ ็ทไบบ่บซไธๅณไพๆทกๆทก็ๆชๆจ้ฆๅณ๏ผๆทฌ่ๅทๆ๏ผๅปๅๆ่ฆบๅพๆ๏ผๆชๆช็ใ ๅฅนๆชไบๆชๅฐๅฑ่กๅ้้ขๅพ้ ไธไบ๏ผไฝ่้ ญๆชไบๆช่ฃ้ใ โๅค่ฌๅฐๅๆๆใโ ็ทไบบ็็ฎๅ ่ฝๅจๅ ฉๅไบบไน้็ฉบ่ฉ่ฉ็่ท้ขไธ๏ผๆฒ้ป่ฏไน ๅโๅฏโไบไธ่ฒใ ่ปๅญ้ๆฐๅๅ๏ผๆๆฟ่ฝไธๅพ๏ผ็ฉบๆฐฃๅฐทๅฐฌ็ๅนพไนๅๆปฏๅจไธ่ตทใ ๅๆญฒๆญฒ็ฝๆทจ็้ก้ ญ้ฝๅๅบไบ็ดฐ็ดฐๅฏๅฏ็ๆฑ็ ๏ผ้ผปๅฐๆด็ใ โไฝ ๅพๆๆ๏ผโ ็ทไบบๅฟฝ็ถ้ๅฃ๏ผๅฐพ้ณไพ่ๅพฎๅพฎไธๆ๏ผๅธถ่ไธๆ่ชๅจ็ๅทใ โๆฒๆ๏ผโ ๅๆญฒๆญฒ็ๅฐ็ซไบ่ตทไพ๏ผไธๆ้ๅฟไบไบบๅจ่ปไธ๏ผ่ ฆ่ขๅ็ถไธ่ฒ้ ๅจไบ่ป้ ๏ผๆๅพๅกๅกไฝ้ฟใ ๅฅนๅฐทๅฐฌๆชไบไธ้ ญ้ซฎใ โโฆโฆๆๅชๆฏๆฒๆณ้ๅฐๅๆ้บผๆไพใโ ็ฌฌ3็ซ ๅฐๅ๏ผๆๆ ๅ ๅฎถ็ขๆฅญ็พๅค๏ผ่็บๅญๆ็้็ๅฐฑๆฏๅ ๅฎดๅกตใ ๅฏไปไธฆไธ้กๆๆฅๅๅ ๆฐ็ไผๆฅญ๏ผๅคงๆฆๆฏๅ ็บๅพๅฐ็ๆ ฃไบๅฎถๆ็ญ้ฌฅ้็็พ่ๆ่ฉใ ๅ ๆฌไป่ชๅทฑ๏ผไนๆทฑๅๅ ถๅฎณ้ใ ไปไพฟ้ ่่ชๅทฑ็่ฝๅ๏ผๅจๆตทๅ งๅคๅต่พฆไบ้พๅคง็่ณ็ข้ใ ๅๅ ซๆญฒๆๅนด็ฆฎไนๅพ๏ผๅ ๅฎถๅๅๅฎถๅๅฎไบๅฉๆใ ๅฅนๅฐฑๅพๅฐ่ฆๅฐไป๏ผ่็บๅญๆฏๆฏๆๅ๏ผ้ฝๆฏ่ชชๅพๅฟใ ไธๅๅฐๅฐ็ๆ ก็ด่่บๅ๏ผๅฐฑ็ฎๆฏๆ ก่ฃ้่ฆ่ฆช่ชๅป่ซ๏ผไนไธไธๅฎ่ซ็ๅใ โ้ๅพ้่ฆๅ๏ผโ ็ทไบบ็ธ่ฒๆฒๆฒ็็่ๅฅน๏ผไผผไน็็ๆฏๅจ่ช็่ฉขๅๅฅนๆฏๅฆๆณ็ฅ้็ญๆกใ ๅ ถๅฏฆๅๆญฒๆญฒๅชๆฏๆณ็ทฉ่งฃไธไธ่ชๅทฑ้ๆผๅป็ผบ็่ๅๆๆ่ชชๅบไธๅ้็ฎๅพไธๅ็็ๅ้กใ ๅฅนๅฏๆฒๆ้ฃๅๆฌไบๅปๅนฒๆถๅ ๅฎดๅกต็่ก็จใ ่ขซไปไธๅ๏ผๅๅพ็ซๅป่ชๆ ซใ โไธ้่ฆใโ ็ทไบบๆฟๅฏๅพฎ็ฟน็็ซๆฏๅไธ๏ผ่ฆ่ไฝ็ณๅญ็ๆ ็ท๏ผ่ฝ้่ๅๆฒ้ๅฃใ ่ปๅญๅๅจๆ่ฟ็ไธๅฎถ็ง็ซ้ซ้ขใ ่็้้ป็ฎๅคๅทๅปๅซไพไบๅค็ง็ไธปไปป้ซๅธซๅ้ ็ด็้ชจ็งๅคงๅคซใ ๅ ฉๅไบบๆ่จบๅพ็ตฆๅบๆ็ต็ตๆ๏ผๅฐฑๆฏๆฆ็ ดไบ้ป็ฎ๏ผไธๆๅฝฑ้ฟ่ทณ่ใ ่ขซ็ถๆ็็จ็่ฒไธๆจฃๅฐๅพ ็ๅๆญฒๆญฒ๏ผ่็็่ถไพ่ถ็ด ใ ็ญ้ซ็่ตฐไบๅพ๏ผ่ท่ญทๅฃซ่ฆไพไบๆฃ็ฑค็ข้ ๅ็ดๅธ๏ผไธ้ๆดไธๆฌกๆงๆๅฅไธ้้๏ผโๅฐๅ๏ผไฝ ๆๆๆไผธๅบไพๅฐฑๅฏไปฅ๏ผๆไฟ่ญไธ็ขฐๅฐไฝ ใโ ๅๅ่ญทๅฃซ่ฆ็ตฆไป่็๏ผไปๆฒ่ฎใ ้ๅทๆฏๅ ็บๆๅฅน็ไธ็๏ผๅๆญฒๆญฒๆฒ่พฆๆณ่ชชๆ่ชๅทฑ็ถๅๆฒ็่ฆใ ๅไปฅ็บ่ฆๅคๅธๅนพๆฌก๏ผๆฒๆณๅฐ็ทไบบ็ซ็็ไนไน็ๅฐๆไผธๅฐไบๅฅน้ขๅใ ๅฅน่็็ๅพๅฐๅฟ๏ผๅ ็ดๅธ็ๆๅไนๆฒๆ็ขฐๅฐใ ๅฎ็พ๏ผ ๅฅนๅผๅบไธๅฃๆฐฃ๏ผๆฌ้ ญ่ก่็ทไบบ็ฌไบ็ฌ๏ผ็็จ็็ธๅญๆพๆธ ๆไบฎ๏ผๆฒไบๅจๅคง็ฆฎๅ ่ขซไบบ้บๆฃ็็ ด็ข็ตๆใ โ่ตฐๅง๏ผโ ๅ ๅฎดๅกต็งป้็ฎๅ ๏ผ็ๅ ๅบไบ่จบๅฎคใ ๅๆญฒๆญฒๆฒๆ็ฎๅ้บป็ ฉๅ ๅฎดๅกต๏ผๅๅจ่ทฏ้ๆบไบๆบๆใ โๅฐๅๅ่ฆใโ ็ทไบบ่ฝ้ ญ็ๅๅฅน๏ผ็ๅฟๅพฎไธๅฏๆฅ็็บไบ็บใ โไธๅๅญธๆ ก๏ผโ ๅๆญฒๆญฒๅ่ฆๅ็ญ๏ผๅ ่ฃก็ๆๆฉๅฟฝ็ถ้ฟไบใ ๅฅน็ไบไธ็ผ๏ผๆฏๅ้็่็ขผไพฟ็ดๆฅๆไบใ ็ทไบบ็็ฎๅ ๆ้ๅฅนๆกๅจๆๅฟ็ๆๆฉ๏ผโ่ฆๅปๅช๏ผๆ้ไฝ ใโ ๆๆฉๅๆฌก้ฟ่ตท๏ผ้ไธๆฌกไธๆฏ้ป่ฉฑ่ๆฏ็ญไฟกใ ๅๆญฒๆญฒ็ไบไธ็ผ๏ผ่่ฒ้ ๆ่ฎไบ่ฎ๏ผ็ซๅปๆฌ้ ญ้๏ผโๅฐๅ๏ผๆ้ๆไบ๏ผไปๅคฉ่ฌ่ฌไฝ ใโ ๆฐๅฅฝๆๅบ็ง่ปไพ้ซ้ข้ไบบ๏ผ่ปๅญ็ฉบไบ๏ผๅๆญฒๆญฒ็ซๅปๅไบไธๅป๏ผ้ไธ่ป้ๅพ้่ก่ๅ ๅฎดๅกต้ๅฟ็ๆฎไบๆฎๆใ ๅฅนไธฆๆฒๆ็ๅฐ๏ผ็ทไบบๅๅจ่บซๅด็ๆๆๆญฃ็ทฉ็ทฉๆก็ทใ ็ฝ่ฒ็็ดๅธ่ขซๆปฒๅบ็่ก็ ๆไบๆๆ้ป้ป็็ด ใ ่ปๅญ้ง้ข้ซ้ขๅพ๏ผๅๆญฒๆญฒๅ ฑไบๅๅฐๅใ ้ๅ ท็ตๆไบบ็ๆ๏ผ่ชช่ฆช็ผ็ๅฐๆฏ็งฆ่ฒๅจ็็ทไธๅไบๆ่ ณใ ่ไธ๏ผ้่ฒท้ไบๆญๅปบ่่บ็ๅทฅไบบ๏ผๆค่ตฐไบๅนพๅๆฏๆๆฟใ ็ๆ็ไบบ๏ผ่ฆ็ถ้ขไบคๆ๏ผ็ตฆ้ขๆฟ่ฆ้ ปใ ๅ ้ฒๅบญ็ๆไฝๆ็บๅฏไบๅๆญฒๆญฒ็ๅฟ๏ผๅฏ้ไธไปฃ่กจ๏ผๅฅน่ฆ่ไธ้ๅฃ้ป้ใ ้ ๅงๅนฝๆ็ๅ ้ๅ งๅ่ๅ ญๅๆต่ฃกๆตๆฐฃ็ไบบ๏ผๅ ถไธญไธๅ็็ขบๆฏ้ๅ ท็ต็ใ ๅๆญฒๆญฒ้้่ฆๅฑฑ๏ผโๆฑ่ฅฟๅจๅช๏ผๆ็้ไนๅพ๏ผไธ่ฌๅก็ซๅป่ฝ็ตฆไฝ ใโ ๅๅฎถไธๆฏๅ ๅฎถ่ฒกๅคงๆฐฃ็ฒ๏ผๅปไนไธ็ผบ้ขใ ้้ป้ถ่ฑๅฅน้ๆฏๆ็ใ โ้ไบ็งฆ่ฒๅ็ๅฏฆๅจๆฏๅค ็ต๏ผๆ้ฝ็ไธไธๅปไบใโ้ฃไบบๆฟๅบไธๅๅนณๆฟ้้ไพ๏ผโๅฑๅพๅฎๅ่ฆ็ฉ๏ผไธ็ฎกไฝ ่ฝไธ่ฝๆณๅ็งฆ่ฒ๏ผๅบไบ้้้๏ผๅฑๅๅ่ชๅฎๅฃๅฆ็ถ๏ผไฝ ๅฏไธ่ฝๆๆๆผๅบๅปใโ ๅๆญฒๆญฒ้ป้ป้ ญ๏ผๆฅไบๅฐๆน้้ไพ็ๆฏๅญ๏ผ็ขฐไบ็ขฐไธ้ฃฒ่็กใ ๅนณๆฟ่งฃ้๏ผ้ ้ขไธ็ๆไปถๅคพ่ฃก่บบ่ไธๅๅ งๅญๆบๅคง็่ฆ้ ปใ ๅฅน็ซๅป้ป้๏ผๅๆๆฟๅบๆๆฉๆบๅ็ๅฐ้้ตไฝ็ฝฎ็ๆๅ็ดๆฅ้ไธไพใ ๆทซ็ฉข็ซ้ข้ก็ถ่กๆ่ไพ๏ผๅๅพๅฅน็ดๆฅๅฐๅนณๆฟๆไบๅบๅปใ ๅ ้ๅ ง็ๅนพไบบ็็ฌๅบ่ฒใ ๅๆญฒๆญฒ่ฝ่บซๅฐฑๅพ้ๅฃ่ก๏ผ้ ญ้ซฎๅป่ขซไธไบบๆฝไฝใ โๅฐๅฆนๅฆน๏ผไปๆไฝ ่ตฐไธไบโฆโฆๅ๏ผโ ไธๅๅๅฒ็้่ฉๆ๏ผ็ทไบบๆฒ้ฒๅ็ดๆฅ่ขซ็ ธ้ฃๅบๅปใ ่ถ่ๆๆไบบๅคฑ็ฅ๏ผๅๆญฒๆญฒๆ่ ฟๅพๅค่ก๏ผ้ๆฒ่กๅฐ้ๅฃ๏ผๅฟฝ่ฆบไธ่ก็ฅ็ฑ็็่ฅฒไพ๏ผ้่ ฟๅนพไนๆฏ็ฌ้่ขซๆฝ่ตฐไบๅ้ใ ่ขซ็ ธๅจๆกๅญไธๅฐๆททๆททๆ่่ ฆ่ข็ฝตไบๅฅ้ซ่ฉฑใ โๆไธๆๅ ฉไธๅญ๏ผๅฏๆไบ๏ผ่ๅญ็่ฅๆฏไธๅ็้๏ผไธ็จๅๅ้ไฝ ๅฐฑๆๅพนๅบๆฑ้ฅ๏ผโ ๅๆญฒๆญฒ่ฉฆๅ็ซ่ตทไพ๏ผๆๆไบๅนพๆฌก้ฝๆฒ่ฝๆๅ๏ผ็ผๅๆๅ่็็ๅคง็ฌ็ไบบๅฝฑ๏ผๅฅน่ฝ่ฆๆไบบๆฏ้ไบ่ ฐๅธถใ ๅพๆ็ตๆ็็่ฅฒไพ๏ผๅฅน็กๅฉ็ๅพๅพ็ธฎ๏ผไธ้ ่็้ๅปๅจ้ๆ่ขซไบบไธ่ ณ่ธน้ใ ็ทไบบๆบๆๅฆๆพ็่บซๅฝฑ้่ๅ ็พๆญฅ่ไพ๏ผไธๆๅฐๅฅนๆฑไฝใ ๅฅน็ๅฐไบไธๅผตๅท้ๅฆไป็่๏ผๅธญๆฒ่ๆฃฎ็ถ็ๆฎบๆฐฃ๏ผๅฝทๅฝฟๅข้ญ็็ฅใ โๅฐๅโฆโฆๆๆ๏ผโ ็ฌฌ4็ซ ไธๅฐ๏ผๅซๆ็ๅๅญ ็ทไบบๅฐๅฅนๆๆฉซๆฑ่ตท๏ผ็ข็ข่ญทๅจๆท่ฃก๏ผ็ธๅ ๆ้ๅ ้่ฃก็ๆๆไบบใ โ่ชฐ็ตฆไฝ ๅ็่ฝๅญ็ขฐๅฅน๏ผโ โไฝ ่ชฐๅโฆโฆโ ๆททๆทท็ๅซๅ้ๆฒๅๅฎ๏ผๆ้ไพ็ๆๆๅฐฑ่ขซ็กฌ็็ๆๆท๏ผ้ฃๅธถ่ๆ่ ๅฝๆฒๆ่ฉญ็ฐ็ๅงฟๅขใ ๅจๆทๅฒ็ๆ ๅซ่ฒไธญ๏ผ็ทไบบ็ฅ็จ่่ฆใ โ็จๆ็่ฆ็ๆนๅผ๏ผ็ตฆไปๅ็ไธๅฃๆฐฃ๏ผโ ่บซๅพ็ไฟ้ขๅพ่ไธ้ฃ็ผๆถผ๏ผ็ๆฏๆ้็พไบบ่ชๆฑๅค็ฆๅงใ ็งไบบ่จ่ฃฝ็ๅๆฏ่ๆฏ็ๅพๆๅบงๆค ไธ๏ผๅๆญฒๆญฒ็ผ็ฅ่ฟท้ขๅฐๅๅจ็ทไบบ็้่ ฟไธใ ไปฐ่็ท็ด ็ๅฐ่่กไบๅฐๆธ่็ทไบบ็่ๅญ๏ผ็ทไบบ็ๅคงๆ้ฉ็ถๆถ็ท๏ผๆฃ่ๅฅน็ๅฐ่ ฐ็จๅ็ๅพไธๅฃไบๅฃใ โๅฏ๏ผโ ่บซไธๅณไพไผผๆ่ฅ็ก็้ ฅ้บปๅบๆฟ๏ผๅปๅฆ้้ดๆ็ข๏ผๅๆญฒๆญฒ้ฃ่็ๆณ่ฆๅฐๆฑๆดๅค๏ผไธๅๆญๅ่่ ฐ่บซใ โๅฅไบๅ๏ผโ ็ทไบบ็่ฒ้ณๅ็ๅไบบ๏ผๆๅฟ็ๅๅบฆๅ ๅคง๏ผๅๆญฒๆญฒ็่บซ้ซๅไนๅๅฝไธๅพๅๆฏซใ ๆฝฎ็ด ็็ผ่ง่ขซ้ผๅบไบๆถ็ฉ็ๆท่ฑ๏ผๅๆญฒๆญฒๅธถ่ๅญ่ ๆฅไฝไบ็ทไบบ็้ ็ตใ โ้ฃๅโฆโฆโ โๆญฒๆญฒโฆโฆไธ่ก๏ผโ ้ๅๅๅญ๏ผๅนพไนๅพๆฏๅพๅ ๅฎดๅกต็็็ธซ่ฃกๆ ๅบไพ็๏ผ้ก้ ญ้็ญ้ฑๅฟ็็ช็ช็ด่ทณใ โๅฐๅ๏ผโ ่ป่ป็ณฏ็ณฏ็ๅๅ๏ผ็ฒๆฝค็ๅ่ฝๅจไบ็ทไบบ็น็ท็ไธ้ ๆปๅไบๅ้ใ ๅฐๅฅณ็ๆธ ้ฆๆฝคๆฝค็้ฝไบ้ฒๅปใ ่ฝ๏ผ ็ๆบๆๅพไธๆ นๅผฆๅพนๅบๅดฉๆทใ ็ทไบบ็ๅคงๆๆฃๅจๅๆญฒๆญฒ็ๅฐ่ ฆ่ขไธ๏ผๅ ็ ่ๅ้ธ้็ๅฃๅฟไบๅๅปใ ๆฒไบๅคงๆ็็ฆ้ฎ๏ผ็บ่ ฐๅพไบ่ช็ฑๅ้ๅง่นญๅ๏ผๅพ่ไบบๅฟๆธดๆๆดๅคใ โๆๆฏ่ชฐ๏ผโ ็ทไบบ็่ฒ้ณไฝๅๆฅๅใ โๅฐๅโฆโฆๅฐๅ๏ผโ ๅธถ่่็นญ็ๆๆใๆ่ๅคง่ ฟ๏ผๅๆญฒๆญฒๅพ่ไป็่ๅญ๏ผ้กซๆ ่ๅนพไนๅฐๅซๅบไพใ โไธๅฐ๏ผโ ็ทไบบๅ่ฒ่ชๅ๏ผโๅซๆ็ๅๅญใโ โๅ โฆโฆๅ ๅฎดๅกตโฆโฆๅ๏ผโ ่ป่บซไธๅๅฐๆๅ่... ... ๆฉๆจ็ๆ้ฝๅบ้่ป็ช็ งๅจ่ไธ๏ผๅๆญฒๆญฒ่ฟท่ฟท็ณ็ณ็้็ผ็๏ผ่งธๆๆฏไธ็ๆบซ็ฑ็กฌๆบ็่่ใ ๆจๅค็่จๆถ็็่ฅฒไพ๏ผๅฅนโฆโฆๅผทไบๅ ๅฎดๅกต๏ผ่ชๅทฑๆชๅฉๅคซ็ๅฐๅ๏ผ ๅฅนๆ นๆฌไธๆขๅป็็ทไบบ็่๏ผ่ป่ๅ ฉๆข็บ็ดฐ็่ ฟๅฐ่กฃๆๆด็ๅฅฝใ ้ฌผ้ฌผ็ฅ็ฅๅฐๆ้ไบ่ป้๏ผไธๆๅป่ขซ้ไพ็็ทไบบไธๆๆๅ ฅๆท่ฃก... ...... ๆฅไธไพๆ็ผ็ไป้บผ๏ผ ้่ฃกๆพ็็ซ ็ฏๆ้๏ผ้ป้ธไธๆนๆ้ๅฎ่ฃApp๏ผ็นผ็บ้ฑ่ฎๆดๅค็ฒพๅฝฉ็ซ ็ฏ ๏ผๆ้ๆ็จ็จๅผๆๆ่ชๅ่ทณๅฐ่ฉฒๆธ๏ผ &6& | Lucky Reading | 334 | https://www.facebook.com/61563903687855/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679616 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/10/25, 11:11 PM | 1738567630 | 1749615066 | 2451 | fb.me | Learn more | IMAGE | 14 Days for JUST $14 ๐ฅ | http://fb.me/ | 2.7171774269342E+14 | Loveland Trufit | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/469281860_3022317591252959_4722783289056964079_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=74UEyrvCDGkQ7kNvgH7r6n9&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYDGlBcq8dJ1OM4yuCVZHv2SX5wKWDPAK1SVBCf99r6eJA&oe=67A653D1 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ATTENTION Loveland Fitness Seekers! ๐โโ๏ธ๐ฅ If you're ready to get serious results in 2025 and join a supportive community, hereโs your chance to try Loveland TruFit risk-free! For a limited time, weโre offering 14 Days for Just $14 at our boutique fitness studio - where we combine martial arts, strength training, HIIT, and functional fitness for a truly dynamic workout. ๐ฅ โ Youโll get personalized coaching tailored to your goals - whether you're just starting or already crushing your fitness routine. ๐ช โ Our high-energy classes will challenge your body, boost your metabolism, and leave you feeling stronger every day. ๐ โ And best of all, youโll be joining a community thatโs with you every step of the way - motivating, supporting, and celebrating your success. ๐ This is a no-strings-attached offer - 14 days for $14 to experience it all for yourself. ๐ฏ Donโt wait - this offer wonโt last long! โณ ๐ Click โLearn Moreโ and Claim Your 14 Days for $14 Now! ๐ | Loveland Trufit | 63 | https://www.facebook.com/61557807733367/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679731 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/11/25, 5:24 AM | 1738567644 | 1749637486 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get quote | IMAGE | Junk Removal: Starting at $69 | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474179124_630627912805400_2230172553687744345_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0F7cKVZt7vsQ7kNvgGXfwjW&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYDdcdGYbpx-AsuGXaa24wgbjc-5Uh6eaTt1sxt1N3KxDg&oe=67A65BEC | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hey, I'm Chris, founder of Gone With The Bin Junk Removal. For years, my team has been clearing out clutter & making spaces cleaner & more livable. ๐ We're deeply invested in the community & committed to responsible disposal & recycling. That's why we're offering junk removal for as low as $69! Proudly serving Glenn Heights, Dallas, Arlington, Irving, Grand Prairie & the surrounding areas! Schedule your free estimate. Let's talk about clearing out your clutter! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679640 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/26/25, 11:51 PM | 1738567632 | 1748321503 | 2451 | discover.mollurahairtransplant.com | Learn More | DCO | Free Consultation | {{product.description}} | https://discover.mollurahairtransplant.com/hair-transplant-sm | 1.017344995789E+14 | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475034505_1328832108144648_4128772286059849435_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-mFoh0k2p5wQ7kNvgFFj1u7&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYCQK0SDPjvjziA-jYPuyRs7g3DOsocz0HxbiIT40T_WBQ&oe=67A6585F | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Turn Back Time on Hair Loss! โฐ Reclaim your confidence with a FUE Hair Transplant at Mollura Hair Restoration. Dr. Anthony Mollura has performed more than 7,000 hair restoration procedures over the last 25 years. Book your FREE Hair Consultation Today! | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | 54 | https://www.facebook.com/molluramedical/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679607 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/26/25, 11:57 PM | 1738567630 | 1748321879 | 2451 | greenchef.com | Get Offer | DCO | 50% Off + 20% for 2 Months | Don't miss out! | https://www.greenchef.com/plans/?c=FB-295Y&mealsize=2-3&dm=meals&utm_source=meta&utm_medium=cpm&utm_campaign=Paid_Social_Meta_cg_NC_ML_9___50-20x8_sk-nofs___GC-BAU-50Off+20Off-No-Free-Shipping__&utm_content=act_paidsocial_paidsocial&vs_campaign_id=6bd3225a-96b2-48b6-b0ba-f220e7943eb4&discount_comm_id=122687d8-29cb-4b92-87c8-b5e9a6f57b65 | 1.513522665533E+15 | Green Chef | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475196007_1316295772903745_7912145011543063972_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Giz1Yep8VBsQ7kNvgElvfiw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYDM7vhMHL0k7_rHSQeyZ6i3Gkp9Rl-bH2QROrJXKxDCCg&oe=67A62CB6 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Why Green Chef?๐ ๐ค Get 50% Off Your First Box ๐ +20% for 2 Months ๐ฅฆ Veggie, Keto and GF plans ๐ฅ Quick & Easy meals | Green Chef | 374792 | https://www.facebook.com/GreenChefPage/ | 0 | GET_OFFER | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679684 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/27/25, 12:08 AM | 1738567636 | 1748322518 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=304554039400649&exdata=C53DCDAE4F2816FF731C066A43066A815501E01933149BE8 | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475771195_1175551567495933_4436310679505620492_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8k_z55gHMo8Q7kNvgELmPs-&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYAX5uwXvhJV5USiUaoDFhwKX0ywQD2wtN58louhrOuz4Q&oe=67A631CF | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | After being released, her malicious stepsister threatened her with their mother's life and tried to send her to an older man. On her way to "sacrifice" herself, she unexpectedly met a mafia kingpin. She took the initiative to seduce him for a partnership. From then on, she turned the tablesโtearing apart the fake angel, slapping her stepmother, and refusing to be bullied again! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &10& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679774 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/11/25, 1:27 PM | 1738567646 | 1749666471 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | VIDEO | Save up to $5000 on Your New Pool! | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474324951_2339718923035763_8595640878315212395_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CSdzTI6ikxEQ7kNvgHVwsUS&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYCltYdFDwe2yqH0Vi4bEY9PNyYjXPIOfAvYVZtJPYWWjg&oe=67A63FCE | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Hi, I'm Dan, owner of PJS Pool Installation. The cost of materials & supplies has come downโผ We will pass $5000 in savings to you! ๐ Everybody wins! Everybody swims! ๐ As a proud local business, we're passionate about creating Aquatic Masterpieces for our neighbors! Serving St. Petersburg, Largo, West and East Lealman, Ruskin, Apollo Beach & surrounding areas! Fill out the form to book your free on-site estimate & allow us to earn your business! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679571 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/27/25, 8:46 AM | 1738567627 | 1748353585 | 2451 | pro.viture.com | Learn more | IMAGE | Use Code VITURE10 For 10% OFF | Making the parallel possible... | https://pro.viture.com/ | 1.0015258586119E+14 | VITURE | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473312118_950716707025770_589715423893302673_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tohCOD5rj0wQ7kNvgFsgM_y&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYD4ctFcXP133jBIRi9aEYY5FTT83QuIjDB_5mn5eEi1-g&oe=67A63263 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Experience the future of entertainment with VITURE Pro XR Glasses! ๐ถ๏ธ Featuring a 135โ UltraClarityโข display with 120Hz refresh rates, these glasses transform your gaming, streaming, and productivity into a fully immersive experience on virtually any device. ๐ฎ ๐บ ๐ And built with premium materials and enhanced privacy features, VITURE Pro XR Glasses are designed for comfort, durability, and uninterrupted focus anywhere you go! ๐ Get yours now with our 30-day risk-free return policy โ use code "VITURE10" for 10% off, enjoy free express shipping, and even split your total into four easy payments! | VITURE | 11423 | https://www.facebook.com/getviture/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679570 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/27/25, 8:46 AM | 1738567627 | 1748353586 | 2451 | pro.viture.com | Learn more | IMAGE | Use Code VITURE10 For 10% OFF | Making the parallel possible... | https://pro.viture.com/ | 1.0015258586119E+14 | VITURE | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473225963_624882773449561_3230458027405907767_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CsKLr1n30JEQ7kNvgFT106O&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYCg0EqOO2-w4XfSkBRNrrV1JibZitQFAFcoLqrLL_ercA&oe=67A62678 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Experience the future of entertainment with VITURE Pro XR Glasses! ๐ถ๏ธ Featuring a 135โ UltraClarityโข display with 120Hz refresh rates, these glasses transform your gaming, streaming, and productivity into a fully immersive experience on virtually any device. ๐ฎ ๐บ ๐ And built with premium materials and enhanced privacy features, VITURE Pro XR Glasses are designed for comfort, durability, and uninterrupted focus anywhere you go! ๐ Get yours now with our 30-day risk-free return policy โ use code "VITURE10" for 10% off, enjoy free express shipping, and even split your total into four easy payments! | VITURE | 11423 | https://www.facebook.com/getviture/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679572 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/27/25, 9:04 AM | 1738567627 | 1748354690 | 2451 | pro.viture.com | Learn more | IMAGE | Use Code VITURE10 For 10% OFF | Making the parallel possible... | https://pro.viture.com/ | 1.0015258586119E+14 | VITURE | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473163750_945386807739501_7276383135580156297_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iCsyEnT68foQ7kNvgHwlR40&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYAKSovX7nzuukjWwMLrTmu0gYDUxJ4uWatAt0e5wqhvXg&oe=67A62D57 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Experience the future of entertainment with VITURE Pro XR Glasses! ๐ถ๏ธ Featuring a 135โ UltraClarityโข display with 120Hz refresh rates, these glasses transform your gaming, streaming, and productivity into a fully immersive experience on virtually any device. ๐ฎ ๐บ ๐ And built with premium materials and enhanced privacy features, VITURE Pro XR Glasses are designed for comfort, durability, and uninterrupted focus anywhere you go! ๐ Get yours now with our 30-day risk-free return policy โ use code "VITURE10" for 10% off, enjoy free express shipping, and even split your total into four easy payments! | VITURE | 11423 | https://www.facebook.com/getviture/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679749 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/11/25, 6:37 PM | 1738567645 | 1749685023 | 2451 | Get quote | VIDEO | Concrete Driveways: Starting at $1499 | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474497062_1318217643341371_7958338565863362035_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=duiFb4d-03MQ7kNvgFecOQn&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYDMjPgISDkF7_OQ0PHnk7neg_BKVnR5szZ8mjGdQYhJyQ&oe=67A655FB | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hey there, I'm John, owner of J&D Concrete Driveways! The cost of concrete is currently low. We donโt know how long this will last but we will pass massive savings on to you! Get your new Concrete Driveway installed for as low as $1499. Just fill out the form to get a Quote! ๐ก Proudly local, we're passionate about enhancing the beauty & value of our community's homes. Serving Fort Worth, Dallas, Arlington, Irving, Grand Prairie & surrounding areas! Get Your Free Quote! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679635 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/11/25, 9:17 PM | 1738567631 | 1749694679 | 2451 | discover.mollurahairtransplant.com | Learn More | DCO | Free Consultation | {{product.description}} | https://discover.mollurahairtransplant.com/hair-transplant-sm | 1.017344995789E+14 | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474742213_1283854512693177_6207329649037280923_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i-N_Hq0gloEQ7kNvgEVfacC&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYB8IL4gWjHUnF_hg30EBRKUizOgilD520jeMLCvaJPS1g&oe=67A65518 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Turn Back Time on Hair Loss! โฐ Reclaim your confidence with a FUE Hair Transplant at Mollura Hair Restoration. Dr. Anthony Mollura has performed more than 7,000 hair restoration procedures over the last 25 years. Book your FREE Hair Consultation Today! | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | 54 | https://www.facebook.com/molluramedical/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679727 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567643 | 1745816685 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get quote | IMAGE | Tree Removal: Starting at $249 | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474649006_458056320708822_1802903963235205863_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=askOkCjoBJcQ7kNvgG-XIIY&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYDsxV0udDvTqFKByGjCqlAb1lc68HawhBN5FDNt4h-2oQ&oe=67A62D67 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi, I'm Wayne, owner of Webbโs Tree Removal. ๐จ Dead, Dying or Oversized Trees can be extremely dangerous due to the high risk of branches - or the tree itself - falling. Sometimes trees obstruct views or prevent construction. ๐ช My team of technicians is here to assess your property, then safely remove unwanted trees. ๐ We're locally owned & dedicated to our community which is why we're offering tree removal for as low as $249. ๐ Proudly serving Tallahassee, Crawfordville, Midway, Woodville, Panacea & surrounding areas. Book your free quote! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679758 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 2:47 AM | 1738567645 | 1749109664 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | VIDEO | Paint Transformations starting at $249 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474522539_963991495124556_7726946107017407624_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OMZrEbqO3h4Q7kNvgFAsKaq&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYCN91yUBkrhL0gHxtmhaIVASZI0bJiqViTYdKkJAkqJFQ&oe=67A65568 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi, I'm Marc, founder of locally owned, Integrity Painting. โ Everyone always asks me, "How much would it cost to paint my home?" WellโฆEach project is unique! ๐ After you answer a few simple questions about your property, we'll provide a FREE, INSTANT quote. ๐ Click 'GET QUOTE' below! ๐ We're locally owned & dedicated to our community, which is why we're offering paint transformations starting at $249! Proudly serving Hamburg, Clifton, Wayne, Parsippany, Montclair & Surrounding Areas! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679630 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/9/25, 5:17 AM | 1738567631 | 1749464262 | 2451 | discover.mollurahairtransplant.com | Learn More | DCO | Free Consultation | {{product.description}} | https://discover.mollurahairtransplant.com/hair-transplant-sm | 1.017344995789E+14 | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474796311_2672418072946492_2300593462350207438_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TYRp0PZ7AegQ7kNvgEZIjpQ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYAzKOt2moTgGZw6VCuKSC6EJKc3b0N2eZ5v9jqm8uFNPA&oe=67A6463E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Turn Back Time on Hair Loss! โฐ Reclaim your confidence with a FUE Hair Transplant at Mollura Hair Restoration. Dr. Anthony Mollura has performed more than 7,000 hair restoration procedures over the last 25 years. Book your FREE Hair Consultation Today! | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | 54 | https://www.facebook.com/molluramedical/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679637 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/11/25, 2:11 PM | 1738567631 | 1749669070 | 2451 | discover.mollurahairtransplant.com | Learn More | DCO | Free Consultation | {{product.description}} | https://discover.mollurahairtransplant.com/hair-transplant-sm | 1.017344995789E+14 | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474624903_1134723398394185_2288306342626537102_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GxedjybO064Q7kNvgHhFmYO&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYC5K8Nzd3KZyAT5DgaGy89sJF6CEbfiGLRL-kX2FA--Vg&oe=67A6546D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Turn Back Time on Hair Loss! โฐ Reclaim your confidence with a FUE Hair Transplant at Mollura Hair Restoration. Dr. Anthony Mollura has performed more than 7,000 hair restoration procedures over the last 25 years. Book your FREE Hair Consultation Today! | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | 54 | https://www.facebook.com/molluramedical/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679658 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567632 | 1745816685 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Instant Quote! Fill Out Form | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475027862_976610124391623_2314166892718261609_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Do8Q1R3gKPoQ7kNvgEgCA84&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYBjkCKoeDOEUSBxYL85HeUa_9AdCtIktg2YNQ4lxIS_yA&oe=67A6374B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679764 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 2:50 AM | 1738567646 | 1749109820 | 2451 | Get quote | VIDEO | Handyman Services: Starting at $39 | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474445291_1147758580188198_7618931577613422904_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BG8ao4P2q_YQ7kNvgFDp76p&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYCxHH5zTep7jVzWNaFq9egLsNJMwYXkil7ewqX8s71DLQ&oe=67A64FEC | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Hi, I'm Libien, founder of LB Handyman. ๐ Describe the handy work you need, we'll get it done: โ General Repairs โ Electrical & Plumbing โ Carpentry โ Painting & Finishing & so much more! ๐ก Proudly local, we're passionate about providing home improvement to our community. That's why we're offering our services for as low as $39. Just fill out the form to get your free instant quote. Serving Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Brandon, Largo & Surrounding Areas! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679655 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 3:01 AM | 1738567632 | 1749110501 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Instant Quote! Fill Out Form | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475027862_976610124391623_2314166892718261609_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Do8Q1R3gKPoQ7kNvgEgCA84&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYBjkCKoeDOEUSBxYL85HeUa_9AdCtIktg2YNQ4lxIS_yA&oe=67A6374B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679656 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 3:03 AM | 1738567632 | 1749110612 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Instant Quote! Fill Out Form | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475027862_976610124391623_2314166892718261609_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Do8Q1R3gKPoQ7kNvgEgCA84&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYBjkCKoeDOEUSBxYL85HeUa_9AdCtIktg2YNQ4lxIS_yA&oe=67A6374B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679798 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/12/25, 12:13 PM | 1738567647 | 1749748387 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | VIDEO | Plumbing Repairs: Starting at $59 | Locally Owned | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474012149_8823679744411504_4519901356374835232_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cx-87Gde2oAQ7kNvgH6hsXF&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYBU9cVTZZ3IolmWb_a68XyOYZmESa3zNYdmXiJ64ALPkw&oe=67A64374 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi there, I'm James, owner of JW Plumbing! Do you really want to mess with your plumbing? No! leave it to the professionals. ๐จโ๐ง ๐ฏ Contact us ASAP if you have the following: โ ๏ธ Water Stains/Damage ๐คฎ Foul Odors Near Drains ๐จUnusual Noises in Pipes ๐ช Slow Draining or Clogs ๐ As a local business with over 15 years in the community, we're dedicated to ensuring everything flows smoothly for our neighbors. That's why we're offering plumbing services starting as low as $59! ๐ฐ๐ค Contact us to get your free quote! ๐ Proudly Serving Capitol Heights, Washington, Arlington, Alexandria, Columbia & nearby areas. | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679675 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/12/25, 2:18 PM | 1738567635 | 1749755919 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | VIDEO | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=304554039400649&exdata=C53DCDAE4F2816FFB2BCD0C611C03F8A86C56A7ECABAF9D3 | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475421680_1828656104613326_7496854311822237209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8W7cCjElQSwQ7kNvgEwqPs6&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYBO7D8S0QCHkPKFy0vEQYeO2XizMosJEVhuTCZjOD5eLw&oe=67A636A0 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | After being released, her malicious stepsister threatened her with their mother's life and tried to send her to an older man. On her way to "sacrifice" herself, she unexpectedly met a mafia kingpin. She took the initiative to seduce him for a partnership. From then on, she turned the tablesโtearing apart the fake angel, slapping her stepmother, and refusing to be bullied again! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &10& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679757 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/13/25, 3:52 AM | 1738567645 | 1749804767 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Free Quote | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474551555_590073903803987_5134215720153981384_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mh8VoirrhZAQ7kNvgEajI4E&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYDlLsq_o7KxT1zz8VGc0-puZ8a1OrrCiGdxeajgHSC3Zw&oe=67A642FD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679815 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/12/25, 6:19 PM | 1738567648 | 1749770361 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | IMAGE | Tree Removal: Starting at $249 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473057411_935358735356475_8757493997997482358_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IrT517jTpfIQ7kNvgGt4b6I&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYBxy9W6pyHiwy_hDEPIa7MsEXZQM9J-bB_KQ9_ZadDGlQ&oe=67A63BF5 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi, I'm John, owner of Augusta Tree Removal. ๐จ Dead, Dying or Oversized Trees can be extremely dangerous due to the high risk of branches - or the tree itself - falling. Sometimes trees obstruct views or prevent construction. ๐ช My team of technicians is here to assess your property, then safely remove unwanted trees. ๐ We're locally owned & dedicated to our community which is why we're offering tree removal for as low as $249. ๐ Proudly serving Augusta, Martinez, Aiken, Evans, Grovetown & surrounding areas. Book your free quote! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679807 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 8:07 PM | 1738567648 | 1749172052 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Quote: Starting at $59 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473675886_916191013967879_3365421714850973688_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JPniZc2Fr_QQ7kNvgE3DnDm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYC58VLlMRarMbDt5ONT3JxJBvr0f80Vg4vk_A8oom22YA&oe=67A63719 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679808 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/6/25, 12:30 AM | 1738567648 | 1749187822 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Quote | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473617151_1264079664896535_1807406533138613479_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yqaYUhdTpUgQ7kNvgFtjv_q&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYABGhiom3EiEASl5SxMS0m7s77WtN1Iao-QQOTElT3DNA&oe=67A63DB2 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679641 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/7/25, 1:41 AM | 1738567632 | 1749278504 | 2451 | discover.mollurahairtransplant.com | Learn More | DCO | Free Consultation | {{product.description}} | https://discover.mollurahairtransplant.com/hair-transplant-sm | 1.017344995789E+14 | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475034505_1328832108144648_4128772286059849435_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-mFoh0k2p5wQ7kNvgFFj1u7&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYCQK0SDPjvjziA-jYPuyRs7g3DOsocz0HxbiIT40T_WBQ&oe=67A6585F | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Turn Back Time on Hair Loss! โฐ Reclaim your confidence with a FUE Hair Transplant at Mollura Hair Restoration. Dr. Anthony Mollura has performed more than 7,000 hair restoration procedures over the last 25 years. Book your FREE Hair Consultation Today! | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | 54 | https://www.facebook.com/molluramedical/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679816 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 9:27 PM | 1738567648 | 1749176873 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Book Your Free Tree Removal Estimate | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473055479_1599447627361885_5046457763132931843_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ojyJgyAW5K4Q7kNvgG6b7qw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYBeRckuTjR3l1t_gBKQOW0S3fBQyo_Z-Fvicq0_jEQY1w&oe=67A62AB3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679817 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 11:40 PM | 1738567648 | 1749184825 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Book Your Free Tree Removal Estimate | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473055479_1599447627361885_5046457763132931843_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ojyJgyAW5K4Q7kNvgG6b7qw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYBeRckuTjR3l1t_gBKQOW0S3fBQyo_Z-Fvicq0_jEQY1w&oe=67A62AB3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679818 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/7/25, 3:43 PM | 1738567648 | 1749328981 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Book Your Free Tree Removal Estimate | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473055479_1599447627361885_5046457763132931843_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ojyJgyAW5K4Q7kNvgG6b7qw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYBeRckuTjR3l1t_gBKQOW0S3fBQyo_Z-Fvicq0_jEQY1w&oe=67A62AB3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679820 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/10/25, 3:55 AM | 1738567648 | 1749545717 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Book Your Free Tree Removal Estimate | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473055479_1599447627361885_5046457763132931843_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ojyJgyAW5K4Q7kNvgG6b7qw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYBeRckuTjR3l1t_gBKQOW0S3fBQyo_Z-Fvicq0_jEQY1w&oe=67A62AB3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679819 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/3/25, 12:05 PM | 1738567648 | 1748970334 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Book Your Free Tree Removal Estimate | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473055479_1599447627361885_5046457763132931843_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ojyJgyAW5K4Q7kNvgG6b7qw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYBeRckuTjR3l1t_gBKQOW0S3fBQyo_Z-Fvicq0_jEQY1w&oe=67A62AB3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679606 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/7/25, 3:55 AM | 1738567630 | 1749286541 | 2451 | greenchef.com | Get Offer | DCO | 50% Off + 20% for 2 Months | Don't miss out! | https://www.greenchef.com/plans/?c=FB-295Y&mealsize=2-3&dm=meals&utm_source=meta&utm_medium=cpm&utm_campaign=Paid_Social_Meta_cg_NC_ML_9___50-20x8_sk-nofs___GC-BAU-50Off+20Off-No-Free-Shipping__&utm_content=act_paidsocial_paidsocial&vs_campaign_id=6bd3225a-96b2-48b6-b0ba-f220e7943eb4&discount_comm_id=122687d8-29cb-4b92-87c8-b5e9a6f57b65 | 1.513522665533E+15 | Green Chef | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475196007_1316295772903745_7912145011543063972_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Giz1Yep8VBsQ7kNvgElvfiw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYDM7vhMHL0k7_rHSQeyZ6i3Gkp9Rl-bH2QROrJXKxDCCg&oe=67A62CB6 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Why Green Chef?๐ ๐ค Get 50% Off Your First Box ๐ +20% for 2 Months ๐ฅฆ Veggie, Keto and GF plans ๐ฅ Quick & Easy meals | Green Chef | 374792 | https://www.facebook.com/GreenChefPage/ | 0 | GET_OFFER | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679609 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/7/25, 4:27 PM | 1738567630 | 1749331656 | 2451 | greenchef.com | Get Offer | DCO | 50% Off + 20% for 2 Months | Don't miss out! | https://www.greenchef.com/plans/?c=FB-2GPY&mealsize=2-3&dm=meals&utm_source=meta&utm_medium=cpm&utm_campaign=Paid_Social_Meta_cg_NC_ML_9___50-20x8_sk-nofs___GC-BAU-50Off+20Off-No-Free-Shipping__&utm_content=act_paidsocial_paidsocial&vs_campaign_id=6bd3225a-96b2-48b6-b0ba-f220e7943eb4&discount_comm_id=122687d8-29cb-4b92-87c8-b5e9a6f57b65 | 1.513522665533E+15 | Green Chef | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475026147_1979102562601391_4351958425904711225_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ce_mPxqYnVsQ7kNvgHFos4G&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYAefYn-eAM6jAh3qziPG47ZMl1hMfI1X3h7NjDoH6W8XQ&oe=67A658E0 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Why Green Chef?๐ ๐ค Get 50% Off Your First Box ๐ +20% for 2 Months ๐ฅฆ Veggie, Keto and GF plans ๐ฅ Quick & Easy meals | Green Chef | 374792 | https://www.facebook.com/GreenChefPage/ | 0 | GET_OFFER | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679610 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/9/25, 12:42 AM | 1738567630 | 1749447762 | 2451 | greenchef.com | Get Offer | DCO | 50% Off + 20% for 2 Months | Don't miss out! | https://www.greenchef.com/plans/?c=FB-26JT&mealsize=2-3&dm=meals&utm_source=meta&utm_medium=cpm&utm_campaign=Paid_Social_Meta_cg_NC_ML_9___50-20x8_sk-nofs___GC-BAU-50Off+20Off-No-Free-Shipping__&utm_content=act_paidsocial_paidsocial&vs_campaign_id=6bd3225a-96b2-48b6-b0ba-f220e7943eb4&discount_comm_id=122687d8-29cb-4b92-87c8-b5e9a6f57b65 | 1.513522665533E+15 | Green Chef | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475650941_3991410037782865_167509731352829342_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UXgV0oNv6XQQ7kNvgGFVp8h&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYDrtAsAsbH-nw3qWByW0an3x9gPYO5hVaT0UdvbRnjKPQ&oe=67A63B7D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Why Green Chef?๐ ๐ค Get 50% Off Your First Box ๐ +20% for 2 Months ๐ฅฆ Veggie, Keto and GF plans ๐ฅ Quick & Easy meals | Green Chef | 374792 | https://www.facebook.com/GreenChefPage/ | 0 | GET_OFFER | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679612 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/26/25, 11:51 PM | 1738567630 | 1748321501 | 2451 | liontutors.com | Sign Up | DCO | LionTutors - Penn State Tutoring | Don't study hard, study smart! | https://liontutors.com/ | 37403466696 | LionTutors | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/458115374_1584409525762074_6863717670943726092_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hwOwHH3wvAoQ7kNvgGs8reZ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYA5AyL35g0dP77ZFO42phfezISEU8zNrWp7oZM2F920Ag&oe=67A624E8 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Hey Penn State students, get the grades you want this semester with LionTutors | LionTutors | 7087 | https://www.facebook.com/LionTutors/ | 0 | SIGN_UP | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679636 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/6/25, 8:29 AM | 1738567631 | 1749216592 | 2451 | discover.mollurahairtransplant.com | Learn More | DCO | Free Consultation | {{product.description}} | https://discover.mollurahairtransplant.com/hair-transplant-sm | 1.017344995789E+14 | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474624903_1134723398394185_2288306342626537102_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GxedjybO064Q7kNvgHhFmYO&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYC5K8Nzd3KZyAT5DgaGy89sJF6CEbfiGLRL-kX2FA--Vg&oe=67A6546D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Turn Back Time on Hair Loss! โฐ Reclaim your confidence with a FUE Hair Transplant at Mollura Hair Restoration. Dr. Anthony Mollura has performed more than 7,000 hair restoration procedures over the last 25 years. Book your FREE Hair Consultation Today! | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | 54 | https://www.facebook.com/molluramedical/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679642 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/9/25, 3:25 AM | 1738567632 | 1749457505 | 2451 | cdnjkfiw.com | Learn more | IMAGE | ๐Mga Anak ng Bilyonaryo๐ | https://www.cdnjkfiw.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=17755&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 3.8701676448549E+14 | Philip Spicy Reading | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475412345_1526893691342748_5336513481541136256_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mb4fKZUG1vIQ7kNvgEpARd2&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYDj4TftrqkY-uPoIrEk1YaDL5YsYr5bj2W389znoZId_Q&oe=67A651DF | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Madiing tinali ni Lorelei ang sintas ng luma niyang sapatos. Kalahating oras na lang ay magsisimula na ang klase niya ngunit hinihintay niya pa ang perang ibibigay ng kanyang Tita Agnes. Pang-huling taon na niya sa kolehiyo sa kursong business management. Gusto niya ay siya na ang mag-manage sa maliit na restaurant na iniwan ng yumao niyang ina na hawak ng Tita niya. Nagsalubong ang mga kilay niya at napasandal sa lumang sofa matapos marinig ang halinghing ng Tita niya mula sa kwarto. Sigurado siyang naroon na naman ang kinakasama nitong lalaki na si Richard. "Idiin mo, Richard!" dinig pa niyang sigaw ng Tita niya. Naiiling siyang pumikit. Maya-maya pa matatapos ang mga ito kaya naman tumayo na siya at kumatok sa pinto ng kwarto. "Tita, aalis na po ako." "Oh! Ode umalis kaโRichard!" muling hiyaw pa nito. "Iyong pera ko po," paalala niya pa rito ngunit daing at halinghing ang sagot nito. Paulit-ulit niyang kinatok ang pinto. Ang huling bigay nito ay limangdaan na pinagkasya niya ng isang linggo. Ayaw naman niyang basagin ang alkansyang baboy niya na mamiso lang ang laman. Nabitin sa ere ang pagkatok niya noong bumukas ang pinto. Niluwa no'n si Richard na pawisin, tanging basketball short ang suot, may hawak din itong libo-libong pera sa kamay. Namumutok ang mga braso nito at halos masakop ang pinto sa laki ng katawan. Mukha pa itong aburido noong tumingin sa kanya kaya napaatras siya. "Istorbo," parinig pa nito bago siya lagpasan. Napamaang siya at agad na pumasok sa kwarto. Huli niya pang nagsusuot pa lang ng t-shirt ang Tita niya. "Pera lang ang habol sa'yo ni Richard, Tita. Hiwalayan mo na iyon. Ang laki ng katawan no'n at kaya no'n ang magtrabahoโ" "Huwag kang makialam sa desisyon ko at hindi naman kita anak. Ikaw ang lumayas kung gusto mo. Bukas makalawa ay dito na titira si Richard. Mas maganda siguro kung humanap ka na ng ibang matitirahan at baka maging kaagaw pa kita sa kanya. Malaki ka na, kaya mo na ang sarili mo," pinal nitong sambit bago nagsuot ng underwear. Nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata niya, "Ginagatasan ka lang ng pera ni Richard, Titaโ" "Oh ayan, dalawang libo para matikom iyang bibig mo. Huling baon mo na iyan. Gagamitin ni Richard ang pera at magtatayo siya ng talyer." Mas lalo siyang nanlumo, "Hindi po pwede iyon. Pera ni Mama ang mga iyan. Kita sa restaurant niya, Tita. Huwag naman po kayong magpabilog kay Richard!" hindi niya mapigilang ilakas ang boses niya. Napalunok pa siya at natakot noong tumayo ito at lumapit sa kanya. Matalim na ang tingin nito. "Aba! Ano'ng pera ng Mama mo? Ilagay mo sa kokote mong matagal ng patay ang Mama mo at akin na ang restaurant na iyon. Pinag-aral at pinakain na kita. Nasa tamang edad ka na at kaya mo ng magtrabaho." Ilang beses pa nitong tinulak-tulak ang noo niya. "Hala sige, layas!" galit pa nitong sigaw bago siya itulak palabas ng pinto. Pinigil niya ang mga luha. Bandang huli ay hindi niya nakuha ang dalawang libong bigay nito. Nanghiram pa tuloy siya ng pera kay Nica. "Paano ang OJT mo? Titigil ka kailan huling taon na, Lei?" Nasapo niya ang noo at napasubsob sa mesa. Simula noong maging boyfriend ng Tita niya si Richard ay naging ganoon na ang Tita niya. "Ewan ko. Hindi ko na alam, Nica." Bumikig ang lalamunan niya sa badyang pag-iyak. Ni hindi niya pinansin ang grupong lumapit sa kanila. "Si Alicia," bulong pa sa kanya ni Nica. Si Alicia ang pinakasikat sa university nila. Mayaman, makinis, at madaming kakilala. Napasilip pa siya rito. Malaki ang ngiti nito, litaw ang naka-braces na ngipin. Ni hindi gumagalaw ang kulot na buhok na kulay blonde. Napaayos siya ng upo noong maglapag ito ng papel. "We're recruiting members for our sorority. You might want to join. Tonight is the initiation," magiliw nitong saad. Nangunot ang noo niya. Alam niyang hindi magandang sumali sa sorority ngunit noong mabasa niya ang mga benefits sa papel ay napalunok siya. "Free education and free allowance. Mayayaman lahat ng kasali at mga iilang negosyante. Nagpaparami lang kami ng miyembro. No fees, all free. Don't worry about the initiation, hindi naman iyon masakit. I would love to see both of you tonight." Kumindat pa ito bago umalis kasama ang dalawa pang alagad nito. "Maganda ang benefits nila, Lei. Solve ang problema mo kapag sumali tayo." Dumukwang ito at nilapit ang tainga sa kanya, "Tsaka alam mo ba, balita ko may kasapi silang Fraternity na puro gwapo," dagdag na bulong nito bago humagikhik. Wala siyang pakialam sa mga gwapo. Ang kagustuhan niyang makatapos ng kolehiyo ang nagtulak sa kanyang sumali. Makailang beses niya pang sinuklay ang malambot, tuwid, at maitim na hanggang balikat niyang buhok. Ginamit niya rin ang lipbalm upang malambot tingnan ang mga labi niya. Kaunting polbo lang ay sinuot na niya ang puting lumang bestida niyang abot hanggang tuhod at sandalyas na naging dirty white na. Kabado pa siya noong makarating sa hideout ng mga ito. Nasa pila na rin si Nica na agad kumaway sa kanya. Mabilis siyang lumapit. "Piliin raw natin iyong sarap sabi ni Alicia. Lahat kasi ng pumili ng hirap ay dinadala sa kabila at nakakatanggap ng hampas at palo," bulong nito. "Huh? Akala ko ba hindi masakit ang initiation nila?" "Hindi nga kapag sarap ang pinili mo. Basta, doon tayo sa turo ni Alicia. Ayokong magkapeklat, Lei." Napalunok siya at hindi mawari ang kaba sa dibdib niya. Makailang beses niya pang pinisil ang mga kamay. "Nica Fernandez!" sigaw ng lalaking tingin niya ay bouncer. Nagtaas ng kamay ang kaibigan niya bago humarap sa kanya. "Tandaan mo ang pipiliin mo, Lei. Iyon ang pipiliin ko. Magkita na lang tayo ulit bukas. Para sa pangarap, Lei!" pagpapasigla pa nito ngunit hindi niya masuklian ng ngiti. Siya na ang kasunod pagkatapos nito ngunit hindi na siya mapakali. May tatlo pang babae sa likod niya at dinig niyang pipiliin din ng mga ito ang pinapapili sa kanya ni Nica. "Lorelei Carpio!" Napaigtad siya sa malakas na sigaw ng bouncer. Muntik pa siyang madapa sa pagkataranta para lang makalapit. Tumuwid siya ng tayo. Pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin. Nangunot ang noo nito ngunit hindi nagkomento. Baka iniisip nitong bata siya sa height niyang 5'5 at balingkinitang katawan. "Sarap o hirap, Miss?" hindi nakangiting tanong nito. Napalunok siya at naumid yata ang dila pero kailangan niyang sumagot. Malaking benepisyo ang makukuha niya kapag natanggap siya sa sorority ni Alicia. "S-arap po," pikit-matang sagot niya. Inangat nito ang palad at agad na lumapit ang isa pang bouncer. "Nandiyan na ba si Phoenix?" tanong nito sa tinawag. "Kadarating lang pero nasa kwarto na." "Good. Ibigay mo 'yan sa kanya at ipaalala mong birhen 'yan," utos pa nito sa lalaki. Nangunot ang noo niya ngunit napapikit noong basta na lang siya lagyan ng blindfold sa mga mata. "B-akit po may blindfold?" kabadong tanong niya. "Hindi mo pwedeng makita ang makakasama mo. Bawal mong silipin o tanungin ang pangalan niya. Kapag ginawa mo iyon, madi-disqualify ka at hindi ka tatanggapin sa grupo," paalala pa ng bouncer na lumapit. Tinatak niya sa isip ang mga sinabi nito. Napasunod siya noong hilahin siya nito sa kung saan. Narinig niya rin ang tunog ng doorknob. Marahan pa siya nitong tinulak sa loob. Sumalubong sa kanya ang mabangong amoy ng lemon. Hindi niya mawari kung air freshener iyon o pabango. "New recruit?" tanong ng mababa at tila namamaos na boses. Nanindig pa ang mga balahibo niya sa bahagyang lamig sa boses nito. "Birhen 'yan. Ingatan mo." Nahigit niya ang hininga at kinabahan noong bitiwan na siya ng lalaki. Ramdam niya bigla ang tensyon sa paligid, maging ang mariing titig sa kanya. "I'm not gonna educate you. I hope you know why you are here and why you came here... willingly," seryosong sambit pa nito gamit ang namamaos nitong boses. Mabilis siyang tumango. Ang sabi sa kanya ay mabilis lang ang initiation kaya baka tanong nga lang iyon. "Uhm, I w-ant to finish my studies; that's why I came here," kabadong sagot niya ngunit malutong pagmumura ang narinig niya mula dito. Kasunod ay ang pagbukas ng pinto, "Inosente itong ni-recruit niyo! Get her outta here!" biglang sigaw nito sa labas. "You can't back out, Phoenix. Alam mo ang mangyayari sa kanya kapag pinaalis mo siya ngayon," madiing sagot ng kung sino. Marahas na buntong hininga ang narinig niya at malakas ding sinara ang pinto. Nagtaasan muli ang mga balahibo niya sa gulat noong humawak ang may kagaspangan nitong palad sa braso niya. "I hope you won't regret coming here," mabigat nitong bulong. Nanlamig siya noong umikot ang malaking braso nito sa bewang niya. Sa tantiya niya ay malaki din ang katawan nito lalo na noong lumapat ang balikat niya sa malapad nitong dibdib. Napaatras pa siya noong maramdaman ang daliri nitong binababa ang strap ng kanyang bestida. "A-nong gagawin mo?" Humakbang ito na kinaatras niya. Mahina siyang napasigaw sa pagbagsak niya sa kama. Gulat pa siya sa malaking katawan na biglang umibabaw sa kanya. Kumalabog ng husto ang puso nita. Sakop na sakop ng malaking katawan nito ang katawan niya. "S-andali!" Sinubukan niyang pigilan ang dibdib nito kahit hindi niya nakikita ngunit hinuli nito ang mga kamay niya at parehong pininid sa kama gamit ang isang palad nito. Bumigat ang paghinga niya lalo na noong sumiksik sa looban ng bestida niya ang malaking palad nito. "You should not have come here, Miss. Now you left me no choice but to take you," mabigat na bulong nito bago lumapat ang mga basang labi sa kanyang leeg. Lalo siyang nanlamig matapos matanto ang nangyayari. Hindi siya nakakilos. Ang naglalakabay nitong mainit na palad at ang malaking katawan nito sa itaas niya ay sapat na upang mangilid ang mga luha niya. "H-uwag po," nanginig pa ang boses niya. Marahas na bumuntong hininga ang lalaki, "You chose this. I tried my best to help you. The least thing I can do... is to be gentle," tila nahihirapang bulong nito. Napalunok siya kahit pa unti-unti nitong naalis ang mga saplot niya. Niyakap siya ng lamig ng aircon ngunit natakpan sa init ng malaking katawan nitong nasa itaas niya. Ang kabog ng dibdib niya ay walang kasing lakas sa pinaghalong kaba at kung ano man ang pinaparamdam nito sa kanya lalo noong dumausdos ito pababa... sa pagitan ng mga hita niya. Nanginig ang mga hita niya noong maramdaman ang mainit nitong paghinga't bibig nitong dumampi doon. Pinagpawisan siya nang malagkit kasabay ng kaba. Tanging impit na ungol at daing ang naibulalas niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang bibig nito doon. Napapabalikwas ang bewang niya ngunit hindi ito masipa. Para siyang na-estatwa noong magtagal ito doon hanggang sa mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa mga labi niya. Hinihingal pa siya sa paggapang nito muli sa itaas niya, pinaghiwalay ang mga hita niya, at pinwesto ang malaking katawan doon. Hindi siya nakaprotesta, naumid ang dila niya at hindi mahanap ang boses niya. Sunod na lang niyang namalayan ay ang pagtulo ng luha niya sa hapdi matapos mag-isa ang katawan nila. Namilipit siya sa sakit sa bawat galaw nito. Tila napunit na nito lahat ng nasa loob niya at kahit bagalan pa nito ay hiyaw ang kumakawala sa bibig niya. Pinirmi pa nito ang bewang niya. Nawalan na rin ng lakas ang mga kamay niya na kahit binitiwan nito ay hindi siya nakakilos para itulak ito. Namimigat ang paghinga niya at napapa-igik sa bawat madiing galaw nito sa loob niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang malaking katawan nitong gumagalaw sa kanyang itaas. Ni hindi niya alam kung paanong natapos ang pangyayaring iyon. Ang alam niya lang ay nakuha ng isang estrangherong lalaki ang puri niya. Paggising niya ay nananakit ang katawan niya. Takot pa siyang alisin ang blindfold ngunit kusa iyong nalaglag. Namulatan niya ang tahimik na kwarto, walang bakas na may nakasama siya ngunit ang dugo sa kobre kama ay patunay na wala na sa kanya ang iniingatan niya. Napasubsob siya sa kanyang tuhod at napahagulhol. Masyado siyang nagpadalos-dalos sa desisyon niya! Dapat ay inalam niya muna kung ano'ng klaseng sarap ang sinasabi ng mga ito! Kahit hirap maglakad ay pinilit niya ang sariling magbihis at umalis sa lugar na iyon. Wala na rin naman ang mga bouncer. Kahit si Nica ay hindi niya mahagilap. Sa sobrang pagod niya ay hindi na niya pinansin ang boyfriend ng Tita niya na nasa sala. Diretso siyang kwarto at binagsak ang katawan doon. Ang masama, nilagnat pa siya at napanaginipan ng ilang beses ang nangyari! Tatlong araw din siyang hindi nakapasok. Para siyang lutang na naglalakad noong pumasok na sa eskwela. Natulala pa siya sa nakangiti niyang kaibigan. "Bayad na ang tuition fee nating dalawa. Ang galing! May allowance pa, Lei!" Hagikhik nito bago pinakita ang cheque na may malaking halagang nakasulat. Napalunok siya. Ito na iyon. Ito na ang kapalit ng pagsali nila sa Sorority. Dapat bang kalimutan na lang niya ang nangyari sa kanila ng lalaki? "Ang balita ko ay mga Fraternity leader ang mga lalaking iyon, Lei. Hindi ko rin nakilala ang sa'kin," kwento pa ni Nica sa kanya. "H-indi ka ba umiyak? O nasaktan? Ako kasi pakiramdam ko nahati ang katawan ko," mahinang sambit niya. Namula ang mga pisngi nito, "Hindi ko una iyon kaya... sakto lang ang sakit." Napaawang ang mga labi niya sa kaibigan. Hindi pa mag-sink in sa kanya iyon. Wala naman siyang karapatan na husgahan ito kaya tumango na lang siya. "Wala bang meeting ang Sorority ngayon? Gusto kong magtanong kay Alicia. Baka pwede ko ng makita man lang iyong Phoenix na nakasama ko," imbis ay liko niya sa usapan. "Hindi tayo natanggap doon, Lei." "A-no? P-aanong hindi? Pero bayad na ang tuition fee base na rin sa benefits nila." Umiling ito, "Bayad iyon sa'tin, Lei. Hindi tayo kasapi ng grupo nila. Hindi tayo tinanggap." Para siyang nabingi sa narinig. Kumuyom ang kamao niya. Ang ibig sabihin ay inalay lang sila sa mga Fraternity leader na iyon. Gusto niyang magdamdam at ibalik ang perang natanggap ngunit hindi niya magawa lalo na noong mas maghigpit sa pera ang Tita Agnes niya. Naka-survive siya ng halos dalawang buwan sa allowance na bigay ng grupo. May natira pa ngunit hindi sasapat iyon kaya muli siyang kumakatok sa kwarto ng Tita niya. "Tita, hihingi po sana ako ng allowanceโ" Nabitin sa ere ang kamay niya at napatingala kay Richard noong buksan nito ang kwarto. Sumandal pa ito at humalukipkip. Napaatras siya noong bigla siya nitong pasadahan ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Nagtagal pa ang mga titig nito sa mga dibdib niya kaya nayakap niya ang sarili. "B-akit ka nandito? N-asaan si Tita Agnes?" Ngumisi ito at mas niluwangan ang pinto, "Dito na ako nakatira. May binili lang ang Tita mo. Kalahating oras pa iyon sa bayan. Baka gusto mong paligayahin muna kita." Napasinghap siya sa takot at umatras "Manyak!" galit niyang sigaw dito ngunit pilit nitong inabot ang siko niya at hinihila siya papasok sa kwarto. "Mabilis lang, Lei. Hindi malalaman ng Tita mo. Tayong dalawa langโ" "Bitiwan mo ko! Ayoko sa'yo!" Malakas niya itong sinampal. Nabitiwan siya nito at sinalo ang pisnging sinampal niya. "Punyeta ka, Lorelei! Bakit mo sinampal si Richard?!" biglang sigaw ng Tita niya mula sa likod kaya natulos siya sa kinatatayuan.p Nanginig siya sa kaba lalo na sa nanlilisik na tingin ng Tita niya. "T-ita, kasiโ" "Lumayas kang Punyeta ka! Palamunin ka na nga lang hindi ka pa marunong rumespeto!" Namilog ang mga mata niya noong bigla na lang siya nitong hilahin sa buhok at kaladkarin sa labas ng bahay. "T-ita, nagkakamali kayo! Sinubukan niya akong dalhin sa kwartoโ" "Wala akong pakialam! Napakalandi mo at pati boyfriend ko inaakit mo!" sigaw nito bago siya tinulak sa labas ng pinto. Muntik na siyang sumubsob sa lupa kun'di siya nakabalanse. Malakas pa nitong sinarado ang pinto ngunit bumalik para lang itapon sa pagmumukha niya ang iilang damit. "Lumayas ka at huwag kang babalik dito! Hindi ko kailangan ng malanding pamangkin!" sobrang lakas na sigaw nito na nakapagpalabas sa mga kapitbahay nila. Hiyang-hiya siya noong magbulungan ang mga iyon. Nayakap na lang niya ang mga damit at ang alkansyang baboy niyang tinapon nito sa kanyang paanan. Nagbagsakan ang mga luha niya. Gusto niyang ipaglaban na bahay iyon ng Mama niya ngunit alam niyang hindi na makikinig ang tiyahin niya. Tinago na lang niya ang mukha sa mga damit na hawak at mabilis na nagtawag ng tricycle. Nagpunta siya kila Nica at maging ito ay gigil na gigil sa tiyahin niya at kay Richard matapos niyang magkwento. "Ipabarangay mo, Lei. Wala siyang karapatan sa bahay na iyon. Sa'yo iyon! Pati ang negosyo ng Mama mo, sa'yo iyon! Pinagkaitan ka niya, lahat ng pera ng Mama mo siya ang nagwaldas. Hmp! Kumukulo ang dugo ko sa Tita Agnes mo!" Umakto pa itong manunugod ngunit pinigilan niya sa siko at umiling dito. "H-uwag na, Nica. Hindi ko na rin naman gugustuhing bumalik doon lalo na kung naroon si Richard." "Pero paano ka? Saan ka titira? Paano ang pag-aaral mo? Patapos na tayo, Lei. Bayad na rin ang tuition fee mo." Bumagsak ang tingin niya sa sahig at nanlabo ang mga mata. Hindi niya rin alam kung paano malalagpasan iyon pero pinilit niyang maghanap ng trabaho at apartment na maliit. Sakto lang sa kanya ngunit pagod na pagod nga lang siya bilang waitress ng eatery. Makailang beses tuloy siyang nakatulog sa klase at ang huli ay nahuli pa siya ng lalaking matandang professor niya. "Miss Carpio, alam mong bawal matulog sa klase ko." Napalunok siya at hindi mapigilan ang mga pumipikit na mga mata, "S-orry, Sir. Hindi na po mauulit." Umismid ito at lumayo ngunit noong makita siya na muling pumikit ay galit na siya nitong pinalabas. Nanghihina tuloy siyang napakapit sa pader ng hallway. Naghabol ng paghinga at pakiramdam niya ay umiikot ang paligid niya. Isang hakbang pa ay alam niyang sinakop na siya ng dilim. Noong magising ay nasa tabi na niya si Nica na mukhang kinabahan. Mabilis pa itong umalalay noong pilitin niyang umupo. "Ano'ng nangyari? Tsaka bakit ako nasa clinic, Nica?" Natameme ito ngunit nangilid ang luha sa gilid ng mga mata. Binugso tuloy siya ng kaba at napatitig dito. "B-akit, Nica?" Suminghot ito, "B-untis ka, Lei." Tila nawalan siya ng paghinga sa narinig mula dito. Napalunok siya at nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata. "Hindi gumamit ng proteksyon ang nakasama mo sa initiation, Lei. Binuntis ka niya," sobrang hinang sambit nito. Bumagsak ang luha niya at nanginginig ang kamay na dumapo sa impis niyang tiyan. "Patakaran ng Fraternity nila na gumamit ng proteksyon, pero dahil buntis ka... sigurado akong hindi siya gumamit no'n," patuloy pa nitong paliwanag ngunit naba-blangko na ang isip niya lalo't hindi na niya alam ang sunod na gagawin sa buhay niya. "P-aano ko siya mahahanap, Nica? Paano na ako? Hindi ko pa kaya." Tuloy - tuloy na naglandas ang mga luha niya habang inaalala ang pangalan ng lalaki. "Phoenix. Tama, Phoenix ang pangalan niya, Nica. Hanapin na'tin. Itanong na'tin kay Alicia," pagsusumamo niya sa kaibigan ngunit umiling ito. "Phoenix is just a code name, Lei. Sigurado akong hindi rin siya kilala ni Alicia lalo na kung isa siya sa mga leader," sagot nito na nagpabagsak sa mga balikat niya. "Tingin ko, sinadya niyang buntisin ka," muling sambit nito na nagpakuyom sa kamao niya. FIVE YEARS LATER Para siyang pinutulan ng pakpak dahil sa nangyaring iyon sa buhay niya. Wala siyang choice noon kun'di tumigil sa pag-aaral at magpokus sa trabaho para may pera pagkapanganak niya. Sinubukan naman niyang hanapin ang lalaki, pati nga si Alicia ay ginulo niya ngunit bigla na lang itong naglaho na parang bula. Pati ang kaibigan niyang si Nica ay bigla ring nawala at hindi alam kung saan napunta kaya natakot siyang maghaluglog pa ng impormasyon. Ang tanging nalaman niya ay leader ng Alpha Omega Fraternity ang lalaking nakakuha sa pagkabirhen niya. Limang taon na ang lumipas ngunit hindi niya talaga makakalimutan ang nangyaring iyon lalo't dalawang supling ang pabaon sa kanya ng lalaki. "Mama, wait ka namin mamaya. Promise mo bibili po tayo ng toys?" Kumurap-kurap pa sa kanya ang biluging mga mata ng anak niyang babaeng si Odessy. Marahan siyang lumuhod at inayos ang pagkaka-pigtail ng buhok nito. "Promise! Huwag kang lalayo kay Achi ah? Makinig kay teacher," habilin niya dito bago marahang hinila din palapit ang anak niyang lalaking si Achilles. "Mama, iyong book. Isa na lang bilhin mo po, share na lang kami ni Ody," marahang paalala sa kanya ni Achilles. Pilit siyang ngumiti sa mga ito. Parehong nasa daycare ang dalawa. Pinipilit niyang maibigay lahat ng pangangailangan nila pero sobrang hirap lalo't hindi siya tapos ng kolehiyo at hindi makahanap ng trabahong mataas ang pasahod. "Hindi pwede, Achi. Kailangan tig-isa kayo. Doon kayo sasagot. Ako ng bahala. Bantayan mo ang kapatid mo. Baka makipag-away." Ginulo niya pa ang buhok ito at marahang kinurot ang hindi kalakihang pisngi. "Pwede naman ako sa papel lang sasagot, Mama," pilit nito na inilingan niya. Ayaw niya ng ganoon. Hindi niya ipagkakait ang magandang edukasyon sa mga anak niya. Hindi hangga't nabubuhay siya. "Si Mama na bahala. Ubusin niyo baon niyo. Okii?" Malawak na ngumiti si Ody sa kanya at humawak sa braso ng kapatid. Si Achi man ay pilit na ngumiti. "Mama, ingat!" sabay pang sigaw ng dalawa bago maglakad papasok sa classroom. Pinigilan niya ang naninikip na dibdib matapos tumama sa liwanag ng araw ang mga mata ng mga ito at masilayan kung paanong naging kayumanggi ang mga itim na mga mata ng mga ito. Ilang beses na niyang hinanap sa mga lalaki ang ganoong klase ng mata. Maitim kapag walang araw ngunit kulay kayumanggi kapag nasinagan. Hindi ganoon ang mga mata niya kaya sigurado siyang namana ng dalawa iyon sa mga ama ng mga ito. Hindi rin siya naniniwalang sinadya siyang buntisin ng lalaking iyon dahil hanggang ngayon, walang nagpapakilala para akuin ang mga anak niya. Bumuga siya ng hangin at agad na nagtungo sa opisina ng abogadong amo niya. Ngunit masamang balita ang bumungad sa kanya. "I'm really sorry, Lei. Ipapasara na ang firm. Sa bahay na muna magtatrabaho ang asawa ko at ako na muna ang sekretarya niya. Pasensya ka na. Huling sahod mo na 'to." Nilapit pa ni Misis Alvarez ang sobre sa kanya. Napalunok siya at napatitig doon. Dalawang taon na siyang sekretarya ni Mr. Alvarez at hindi naman lingid sa kaalamam niyang pabagsak na ang firm nito. Nilunok na lang niya ang bikig sa lalamunan niya. Sigurado siyang mahihirapan na naman siyang maghanap ng trabaho. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Umikot na rin sa isip niya ang mga bayarin niya. Simula sa renta sa bahay, sa kuryente, allowance ng kambal, at mga bayarin sa eskwela. "W-ala po ba kayong kilala na... pwede kong lipatan, Misis Alvarez?" Bumuntong hininga ang Ginang, "Tatawagan ko ang kakilala ko, Hija. Itatanong ko kung may alam siyang naghahanap ng sekretarya pero hindi ako nangangako. Tatawagan na lang kita." Bagsak ang balikat na umalis siya doon. Halos hindi siya makalunok matapos bilangin ang iilang libong sahod niya para sa buwan na iyon. Tubig nga lang ang binili niya sa convenience store habang nagtitingin - tingin sa diyaryo. Kahit ano'ng trabaho papatusin na niya kaysa walang trabaho sa loob ng ilang buwan. "Tanggal na naman?! Pang ilan na 'yan ngayong buwan. Ano bang gusto niya? Single? Walang single na babae ang papatol sa gusto ni Mr. Montanier โFine, Eman. Ako na ang maghahanap ng bago niyang sekretarya. Kainis!" Nagpantig ang tainga niya sa narinig at mabilis na napaangat ng tingin sa Ginang na aburidong binaba ang hawak na cellphone. Mabilis siyang tumayo noong akma itong lalabas sa convenience store. Nagulat ito noong pigilan niya sa braso. "Bakit, Hija?" Kumunot ang noo nito sa kanya. Sa tantiya niya ay nasa edad forty-five na ito base na rin sa iilang litaw na puting buhok. "N-aghahanap po kayo ng sekretarya?" kabadong tanong niya. Literal na pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Sa kaba niya ay nabitiwan niya ang braso nito. "May asawa ka?" Mabilis siyang umiling, "Wala po!" Tumango ito at nilahad ang kamay kaya mabilis niyang nilagay doon ang resume niya. Mabilis nitong pinasadahan ang papel bago pinasok sa bag nito. "Tanggap ka na. Sumama ka sa'kin." Walang pagdadalawang isip siyang sumama sa Ginang. Imbis na sa kumpanya ay sa malaki at modernong bahay siya dinala. Sa isang exclusive subdivision iyon. Babasagin ang dingding at kumikinang ang mga mamahaling mwebles ng bahay. Kulay abo at puti ang bahay kaya sigurado siyang lalaki ang magiging amo niya. "Ako si Melia, Hija. Pinaka-sekretarya ni Sir Hector. Bukod sa'kin, may isa pa siyang sekretarya, si Eman. Pareho kaming sa kumpanya at kailangan pa ng isa pang sekretarya ni Sir Hector. On-call at kung pwede ay stay-in." Natigilan siya sa sinabi nito, "Stay-in po?" Hindi pwede sa kanya ang trabahong ganoon lalo na kung hindi pwedeng dalhin ang mga anak niya. "Bawal ba, Hija? Kaya tinanong kita kung may asawa ka. Madalas na magtrabaho sa bahay si Hector. Workholic at umaabot ng madaling araw. Kailangan na may magremind sa kanya sa schedule at dapat niyang pirmahan. Hindi naman madalas na stay-in pero paglalaanan na kita ng kwarto dito. Wala ka naman din sigurong anak di ba? Gusto niya ay single, walang extra baggage at kaya ang trabaho. Sana naman ikaw na ang huli at magtatagal dito sa bahay niya," patuloy na paliwanag nito. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Kung ganoon hindi niya pwedeng sabihin na may kambal siyang anak. "Maglipat ka na ng iilang gamit mo. Pwede kang bumalik bukas ng umaga para pag-usapan ang sahod mo. Nasa event pa si Sir Hector at madaling araw pa babalik. Lahat ng gamit dito pwede mong gamitin. Kung masipag ka, linisin mo na rin, may dagdag sahod naman. Isabay mo na rin ang kwarto niya." "Hindi po ba nakakatakot si Sir Hector?" Natigil ito sa tanong niya. Pagkaraan ay tinuro ang malaking portrait sa sala. Sinundan niya iyon ng tingin. Nagtaasaan ang mga balahibo niya sa klase ng tingin nito sa camera. Galit maging ang magkasalubong nitong makapal na kilay. Walang ngiti ang manipis na labi at mabalbas na panga. Halata ring matigas ang panga nito. At ang ilong, sobrang tangos! Maging ang buhok nitong nakasuklay palikod ay kumikinang sa larawan. Higit sa lahat, litaw ang matipunong dibdib nitong may makapal na balahibo. Sa larawan ay seryoso itong nag-aayos sa relong pambisig. "He's Hector Montanier and he's a perfectionist. So please, beware. Huwag kang gumawa ng bagay na ikakagalit niya kung ayaw mong mawalan agad ng trabaho, Hija," madiing paalala nito kaya napalunok siya. Kaya niya ba? Kaya niya bang pagsilbihan ang lalaking sa larawan pa lang ay mukhang papatay na? Paano pa sa personal? Baka hindi na siya makahinga kapag nakaharap ito. "Gusto ka niyang makausap." Gulat pa siya noong ilahad ni Miss Melia ang cellphone sa kanya. Nanginginig ang kamay niyang tinanggap iyon at nilagay sa tainga niya. Dinig niya ang mahinang musika sa background ngunit mas dinig niya ang mabibigat nitong paghinga. "Your name?" swabe at malamig ang boses nito kaya nahigit niya ang paghinga. "L-orelei Carpio po, Sir." Mahina ngunit marahas na paghinga ang narinig niya mula dito. "Lorelei, hmm," namamaos na sambit nito sa pangalan niya at hindi niya alam kung bakit naghatid iyon ng kakaibang init sa kaibuturan niya. Mabilis niyang binalik ang cellphone kay Miss Melia. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya at hindi kayang kausapin ang bagong boss niya. "B-abalik na lang po ako bukas," tarantang paalam niya. Kahit hindi pa ito um-oo ay lumabas na siya ng bahay na iyon. May mali sa pakiramdam niya. Bakit ganoon? Bakit pakiramdam niya buong boses nito ang humagod sa katawan niya? Iniisip niya pa kung narinig na ba niya iyon noon, pamilyar ngunit hindi niya maalala. "Lorelei, hmm." Muling umulit sa isipan niya ang pagtawag nito sa kanya. Naipagdikit niya ang mga hita lalo't tila namasa ang nasa pagitan ng mga iyon. Bumigat ang paghinga niya. Parang ayaw na niyang tanggapin ang trabaho lalo na kung araw - araw niyang makakasalamuha si Hector Montanier. Tulala tuloy siya noong sunduin ang kambal. Dinala niya pa sa malapit na bilihan ng laruan para na rin makalimutan niya ang pagtawag ni Sir Hector sa kanya. "Itong teddy bear na lang, Mama. Kapag barbie, ako lang ang maglalaro, kapag car naman, si Achi lang. Pero itong bear, pwede kaming share, Mama!" Masiglang tinaas pa ni Ody ang maliit na puting teddy bear. Nahabag siya sa mga ito. Hindi man lang niya maibili ng kahit tig-isang laruan. Hindi man lang niya mapakain sa sikat na fastfood ang mga anak. Mabilis siyang tumango ngunit umiwas ng tingin noong mapansin ang paninitig ni Achi sa kanya. Binayaran na lang niya ang teddy bear para makauwi na sila. Akala niya ay nakaligtas na siya sa mapanuring titig ng anak ngunit hindi. "Mama, iyong book. Kailangan na raw bilhin. Isa na lang, Mama. Kay Ody na lang. Kung hindi pwede, sa susunod na lang po ako mag-aral," kalmadong pagkausap ni Achi sa kanya. Parang pinilipit ang puso niya. Hindi niya hahayaan na mangyari iyon! Hindi deserve ng mga anak niya na maranasan ang nangyari sa kanya. "Hindi, Achi. Bibilhin natin bukas iyon. May bago na akong trabaho." Pinisil niya pa muli ang pisngi nito. Namula nga iyon lalo na't sobrang puti ng dalawa. Ang balak tuloy niyang pagtanggi na sa trabaho ay naudlot. Mas kailangan niya pala iyon. Bahala na kung ano'ng klaseng tao si Sir Hector, basta siya, trabaho lang ang gusto niya. Kinabukasan ay kinausap niya ang mga ito na gagabihin siya. Ayaw niyang iwanan pero hindi niya pwedeng isama. Kung malaki ang sahod niya ay kukuha siya ng bantay para sa mga ito. Kabado siyang bumalik sa malaking bahay. Sa harap pa lang ng pinto ay kumakalabog na ang dibdib niya. Kita na niya roon ang mamahaling sport car na wala kahapon. Nanginginig tuloy ang kamay niyang i-input ang code na pinadala pa sa mensahe ni Miss Melia upang mabuksan niya ang pinto. Pagbukas ay tumambad sa kanya ang pares ng mamahaling itim na sapatos. Pinulot niya iyon upang maitabi. Ngunit nabaling ang atensyon niya sa mahinang hilik sa sala. Kinakabahan siyang lumapit. Tumingkayad para lang masilip ang bagong boss niyang mahimbing ang tulog sa sofa. Halos hindi nga ito magkasya doon sa laki ng katawan. Ang isang binti nito ay nasa sahig habang ang isa ay nasa arm rest. Unan nito ang namumutok na braso at higit sa lahat ay bukas ang suot nitong puting longsleeve kaya't malaya niyang nasilayan ang makapal na balahibo sa matipuno nitong dibdib. Napalunok siya at imbis na lumiko ay umakyat ang tingin niya sa awang nitong mga labi. Namumula at nakasilip pa ang pantay-pantay na puting ngipin nito. Sa totoo lang, para itong modelo ng brief at toothpaste na lumabas sa magazine. Pati panga ay naninigas at sigurado siyang hindi basta-basta ang alaga nito sa ibaba. Ano bang pinag-iisip niya?! "Are you done checking me out, Miss?" namamaos pang bigkas nito bigla kaya napasinghap siya. Nabitin sa ere ang paghinga niya at namilog ang mga mata noong magkatitigan sila. Inaantok pa ang itim nitong mga mata at sobrang haba ng mga pilikmata kaya lalo siyang hindi nakapagsalita. "Close your mouth. Your lips look so delectable," inaantok nitong bigkas muli ngunit iba ang dating ng boses sa kanya kaya nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Ang boses nito ay parang kagagaling sa nakakapagod na ehersisyo sa kama. Magaspang na namamaos. "Close them... please. I might kiss you if you keep drooling on me. Do you want me... to take you here?" biglang tanong nito kaya namula lalo ang mga pisngi niya. Para siyang naeskandalo at hindi na makatingin dito ngunit nahuli niya ang pag-angat ng gilid ng labi nito. Hindi iyon ngiti kun'di maliit na ngisi. Lumitaw pa sa kanang gilid ng labi nito ang hindi kalalimang dimple. "Just kidding. Let's talk inside my office," bawi nito bago biglang bumangon. Mabilis siyang umiwas at napayuko noong basta na lang ito nag-alis ng butones ng longsleeve nito at swabe iyong hinubad. "Do I smell liquor?" mabigat na tanong nito kaya lang ay ayaw niyang lumingon dito kaya nanatili ang titig niya sa sahig. "I'm asking you. Amoy alak ba ako, Lorelei?" halos paos na naman ang boses nito kaya napapikit siya nang mariin. Iba talaga ang hagod ng boses nito sa katawan niya. Lahat ng balahibo niya ay nagtataasan at pati puson niya ay nakikiliti. Napalunok siya noong maramdaman ang paglapit nito. Pagmulat pa niya ay mabalahibong paa ang nakita niya sa harap ng mga paa niya. "N-o, Sir. H-indi po kayo amoy alak," kabadong sagot niya noong akma siya nitong hahawakan. Pag-angat ng tingin niya ay seryoso itong naninitig sa kanya. Salubong ang kilay. Hindi niya nga maitutok ang tingin sa mukha nito lalo't nakabalandra sa harap niya ang hubad nitong katawan. Bumigat ang paghinga niya at gusto na lang pindutin ang matitigas nitong muscles. "In my office," may awtoridad na nitong utos bago tumalikod. Napabuga siya ng hangin. Napapaypay sa sarili at hindi maiwasang manghina. Parang naubos ang lakas niya dito. Sinulyapan niya na lang ang matipuno nitong likod na pumasok sa isang pinto. Huminga siya nang malalim nang ilang beses at binalik ang mga sapatos sa sahig bago sumunod. Nakasandal na ito sa swivel chair at mukhang hinihintay siya. Nahuli niya agad ang mariing titig nito. "Here, Lorelei," malalim na sambit nito at marahang tinipa ang daliri nito sa mesa. Tahimik siyang lumapit kahit nahihiya. Na-conscious siya sa paninitig nito at pakiramdam niya ay hubad na siya sa isip nito. "I might require you to work 24/7, so make sure you don't have any extra baggage to attend to. Don't worry, I'll pay you triple or name your price," seryosong saad nito matapos iabot sa kanya ang blankong cheque na may pirma na nito. Napatitig siya doon ngunit hindi inasahan ang pagtayo nito at paglapit sa likod niya. Muli siyang naestatwa matapos maramdaman ang init ng paghinga nito sa bandang tainga at leeg niya. Hindi pa siya nakakilos noong lumapat sa bewang niya ang mainit at malaking palad nito. "S-ir," kabado niyang bigkas. "Single?" imbis ay tanong nito kaya mabilis siyang tumango. "Good. Birhen?" sunod na tanong nito kaya nanlaki ang mga mata niya. Hindi siya makasagot. Sasabihin ba niyang may anak na siya at kambal pa? Baka hindi siya nito tanggapin! "Y-es, Sir," pagsisinungaling niya. Marahas itong huminga na tila nahihirapan at nagpipigil. Napaangat nang bahagya ang balikat niya noong tumama doon ang matangos nitong ilong na tila inaamoy siya. Nakiliti pa siya sa mabalbas nitong pangang na humagod sa balat niya. "Perfect for me," halos dumikit pa ang labi nito sa paos nitong bulong kasabay ng pagdiin ng palad nito sa kanyang bewang na tila gusto na siyang sunggaban. Hindi niya alam na kanina pa niya pigil ang paghinga kung hindi lang ito lumayo. "Ikukuha kita ng dress. We'll attend an event," pinal na sambit nito kaya namilog ang mga mata niya. "Po? Sir, hindi po pwedeโ" Mas namilog ang mga niya noong tumama sa mga labi niya ang hintuturo nito upang patigilan siya. "Shhh. Sasama ka. You're now my secretary. Kung nasaan ako, doon ka." madiing sagot nito na akala mo ay hindi iyon big deal. Hindi siya makareklamo. Paglabas ng opisina nito ay gusto niyang ibalik ang cheque. Tinawagan niya rin si Miss Melia. "Hindi ka pwedeng umatras, Lorelei. Lagyan mo limang milyon iyang cheque niya para makabawi ka kung gusto mo. Kumpara sa mga nauna sa'yo, mas pabor si Sir Hector sa'yo. Mag-enjoy ka na lang sa event, Hija." Napirmi ang mga labi niya. Dapat pala pinag-isipan niyang mabuti. Napilitan tuloy siyang mag-ayos. Hindi pa siya kumportable sa baby blue cocktail dress na inorder nito. Yukong-yuko siya noong titigan nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya matapos masulyapan ang madiing titig nito. Para tuloy siyang hindi makahinga sa paninitig nito. Pakiramdam niya ay hinuhubaran na siya nito sa isip pa lang. "Chin up. You look... gorgeous," mahinang papuri nito. Sinubukan nitong hawakan ang bewang niya ngunit umiwas siya. Hilaw siyang ngumiti. "Alis na po tayo para agad makabalik, Sir." Nauna pa siya sa harap ng sasakyan nito. Nanliliit ang tingin nito noong pagbuksan siya ng pinto. Mali ba na umiwas dito? Boss niya ito at mali na magustuhan siya nito. Umikot ito sa driver seat noong makaupo na siya. Namroblema pa siya paano aayusin ang seatbelt ngunit nahigit niya ang hininga noong ito mismo ang umagaw sa seatbelt niya at nag-ayos no'n. Nasamyo niya tuloy ang matapang nitong pabango na may halong lemon. Akala pa niya ay ang air freshener pero hindi, amoy lemon talaga ito at masarap sa ilong. Maliit itong nangunguso noong paandarin ang sasakyan. Umiiwas siya ng tingin dito. Kumakalabog ang dibdib niya ngayong nasa isang sasakyan lang sila. Kinipkip niya pa ang bag sa mga hantad niyang hita. "How old are you, Lorelei?" biglang tanong nito na muntik magpatalon sa kanya sa upuan. "T-wenty five, Sir." "Hm. Never been touched? Never been kissed? And of course, never... Am I right?" senswal at bulgar nitong tanong. Tumiim bagang siya. Alam na niya ang kalibre nito kung bakit gusto nito ng Birhen. Sigurado siyang marami na rin itong naikama at delikado siya kung hindi siya mag-iingat. "I'm not comfortable with tbose questions, Sir," pag-amin niya. Hindi ito kumibo. Nasilip niya ang pagsasalubong ng kilay nito. Nakasandal na nga ang siko nito sa bintana at pinaglalaruan ng mga daliri nito ang ibabang labi nito. Isang kamay lang ang gamit nitong pagdrive. Nakarolyo ang asul na manggas ng longsleeve at ang lakas manampal ng kayamanan ng mamahaling relo nito. "Would you like to pretend to be my girlfriend?" biglang tanong nito sa kawalan. "Po?" Umigting ang panga nito, "My ex will be there with her new boytoy. Ayoko talagang magpunta na mag-isa, but I have to show up. It's business related. Ipapakilala kitang bagong girlfriend ko. Don't worry, I'll pay you for this," paliwanag nito. "Pero, Sirโ" "Just this once, Kitty. After this, you can be just my plain secretary." Napakurap siya at napalinga pa sa backseat kung sino ang tinawag nitong Kitty. "Cute, Kitten," nangingising sambit nito sa reaksyon niya. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Walanghiya! Siya pala ang pusa! Wala rin siyang nagawa noong pagdating nila sa event ay ito mismo ang nag-ayos sa braso niya pakapit sa braso nito. "Just stay beside me, Kitty. Smile as if you are head over heels for me," nakangising paalala nito. Sa dami ng mga bigating tao ay naging peke ang ngiti niya. Sa isang pabilog silang mesa napunta at naupo. Ramdam niya agad ang titig ng isang babae sa kanya na tila gusto siyang patumbahin. "Oh gosh, you got a new girl, Hector. I'm happy for you, Hijo. Hindi sana magloko katulad ng nauna," ani ng isang Ginang na bobo kay Sir Hector. Tumabingi ang ngiti niya habang ang babaeng nakatitig sa kanya ay umirap. Humilig pa ito sa braso ng lalaking katabi. "We should go home early, Babe. Bawal magpuyat ang buntis," dinig niyang bulong nito sa lalaki. Ramdam niya ang paninigas ng katawan ni Hector at kahit nakangiti ito sa mga kausap ay pansin naman niya ang panaka-nakang pag-igting ng panga nito. "Alejandro and I are having a baby boy, Mrs. Sarmiento," dinig niyang sagot ng babae matapos itong tanungin sa pinagbubuntis. Hindi na nga niya ito nilingon bagkus ay natutok ang titig niya kay Hector na naging sunod-sunod ang inom ng alak. Hindi siya nakatiis at inagaw ang brandy na hawak nito at ininom iyon. "What are you doing?" bulong na tanong nito. "Hindi ka pwedeng malasing. Magda-drive ka pa," madiing bulong niya pabalik. Lumapit ito at nagtaasan ang mga balahibo niya noong dumikit ang ilong nito sa leeg niya. "My Kitty is concern," namamaos nitong bulong kasabay pa ng pagdapo ng mainit nitong palad sa hita niya. Ginalaw niya ang hita ngunit dumiin ang kapit nito. Wala tuloy sa sariling napainom siya ng alak. "Crizaa, come back here!" Nabaling ang atensyon niya sa lalaking Alejandro yata ang pangalan. Tinatawag nito ang babaeng masama ang titig sa kanya na nag-walk out ngayon lang. Doon lang nawala sa hita niya ang palad ni Hector. Lumagok pa ito ng alak bago tumayo. "Comfort room," paalam nito pero ang titig ay nasa babaeng papalayo. Hindi niya alam kung bakit nadismaya siyang sinundan nito ang babae. Umiwas na lang siya ng tingin at tahimik na uminom. "Ngayon lang kita nakita, Hija. Gaano na kayo katagal ni Hector? Anim na buwan pa lang naman kasi silang hiwalay ni Crizaa," baling sa kanya ng Ginang kanina. Hilaw siyang napangiti, "Three months po," pagsisinungaling niya. Napatango ito. Mabuti na lang at hindi na ito nagtanong muli dahil hindi na niya alam ang isasagot. Nakuha niyang makaubos ng alak ay hindi na bumalik si Hector. Nahihilo na nga siya noong magpunta sa parking lot para doon ito hintayin. Saktong kapapadala niya ng mensahe sa kapitbahay niyang si Ria para tingnan ang kambal noong mamataan si Hector. Napatuwid siya ng tayo noong makita na itong papalapit. Halatang galit kaya hindi na siya nagtanong. Agad na lang siyang pumasok sa sasakyan noong patunugin nito. Maging sa biyahe ay ramdam niya ang galit nito sa hindi malamang dahilan. Madiin ang hawak nito sa manibela. Isa lang ang sigurado niya. Nakausap nito si Crizaa at tiyak na nabigo ito lalo't noong pagdating nila sa bahay nito ay kitang-kita niya ang bumagsak na luha sa gilid ng mga mata nito. Nahabag siya dito, "Sirโ" "Go home, or if you want, you can sleep in one of the guestrooms. Thank you for today, Lorelei," pagtataboy nito sa kanya. Hindi niya alam kung dahil lang sa kalasingan kaya hindi niya ito maiwan. Naaawa siya rito. Agad siyang kumuha ng tissue, lumuhod sa upuan at inabot ang pisngi nito. Pareho pa silang natigilan noong hawakan nito ang kamay niya. "Don't. I'm not weak," pamimilit nito. Naamoy niya ang brandy sa hininga nito at sa malamang ay pareho lang silang may tama ng alak. Napalunok siya noong matitigan ang mga mata nitong dumilim. Balewala niyang pinunasan muli ang pisngi nito ngunit muli nitong pinigilan ang kamay niya. "S-irโ" "If you keep doing that, sa kama tayo babagsak. Umuwi ka bago pa magbago ang isip ko at ipinid ka sa kama," pagbabanta nito. May choice siya, pinapatakas siya nito pero ang katawan niya ay ayaw kumilos. Baka dahil lasing siya. "Pagbilang ko ng lima, lumabas ka na ng sasakyan. I have no mercy when it comes to bed, Kitten," mabigat na bulong nito. Nanuyo ang lalamunan niya at mas lalong hindi nakakilos. "One," pagsisimula nito, nagsimula rin ang mainit nitong palad na umakyat sa hita niya. "Two, get out, Kitty," sobrang paos na sambit na nito habang ang kamay ay nahanap ang garter ng underwear niya. "P-ero, Sirโ" "Five. Pagmumura pa nito bago hatakin ang bewang niya at siilin siya ng halik. Mabilis nitong hinila ang bewang niya at pinaupo siya sa kandungan nito. Nahatak niya ang longsleeve nito matapos nitong ipasok ang dila sa bibig niya habang ang palad nito ay nahatak paalis ang underwear niya. Nahanap ng palad nito ang pagkababae niya at diniin ang daliri doon na kinasinghap niya. Hindi siya makasabay sa halik nito. Naliliyo siya maging sa paghagod ng mga daliri nito sa pagkababae niya. Nanigas ang mga tuhod niya sa kiliti sa puson niya at pamamasa. Hindi siya makahinga nang maayos. Inayos ng isang palad nito ang mga hita niya at pinwesto sa bawat gilid nito. Marahan itong dumukwang at halos isandal siya sa manibela masiil lang siya ng halik muli. Tuluyan na siyang hindi nakasagot ng halik matapos naging mabilis ang hagod ng mga daliri nito sa kanyang ibaba. Napapasinghap siya at ang maiksing katinuhan sa utak niya ay nasakop na ng impluwensya ng alak. "Ahh!" mahinang halinghing niya noong bumaba ang mga labi nito sa panga niya. "I'm giving you another chance to run. Run, Lorelei," udyok na bulong nito kahit pa binababa na nito ang zipper ng dress na suot niya. Napapikit siya. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya sa sobrang init. Bumakas sa mukha niya ang bahagyang ngiwi noong dumausdos papasok ang isang daliri nito. "Not running away? Baka di ka na makalakad bukas. I'm telling you, I'm big," paos at mabigat muli nitong bulong na tila nagtitimpi. Hindi niya alam ngunit lalo siyang namasa sa boses nito. Doon nga lang nag-sink sa kanya na kapag natuloy sila, malalaman nitong hindi na siya Birhen. Mabilis siyang napamulat sa naisip. Balak niya sana itong itulak ngunit paghigit sa damit nito ang nagawa niya noong dumagdag ang daliri nito sa loob niya at sunod-sunod na umulos. "Lintik" hingal niyang pagmumura. Paano pa siya tatakbo kung ang titig nito sa kanya ay nanlalapa? Maalab at alam niyang hindi na ito mapipigilan. Nagawa nitong alisin ang bestida niya. Nailiyad niya pa ang dibdib ngunit agad na sinakop ng mainit nitong bibig ang isa at halos ubusin nito. Nahatak niya ang braso nito upang doon kumuha ng balanse. hubad na siya lahat habang ito ay kumpleto pa ang suot. Pati ang relo sa bisig nito ay naroon pa. "Uhhhh, S-ir!" hiyaw niya noong lalong bumilis ang mga daliri nito sa loob niya. Hindi niya una iyon pero may hapdi pa rin sa kabila ng sensasyong nararamdaman niya. Bumalik tuloy ang alaala niya kung paano nabuo ang kambal niyang anak. Kagaya ni Sir Hector ang lalaki, may kalakihan ang katawan. Ang pinagkaiba lang ay may rahas ang kilos ni Sir Hector. Naitaas niya ang tuhod noong mamilipit sa sarap ang puson niya. Mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa bibig niya matapos maramdaman ang pag-abot niya sa rurok. Hindi tumigil ang mga daliri nito sa pag-ulos ngunit pinakawalan ng bibig nito ang dibdib niya. Naghahabol siya ng hininga noong nilayuan nito ang leeg niya at dibdib. Wala sa sariling nakagat niya pa ang ibabang labi sa paghugot nito sa mga daliri nito. Gulantang nga lang siyang makitang sisubo nito ang mga iyon. "Sir!" pigil niya dito ngunit wala na, napapikit na ito sa pagsubo no'n. Agad pang ngumisi at bahagyang pumasada ang dila sa ibabang labi nito na tila hindi pa ito kuntento. "Addictive," sobrang paos na sambit nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Alam niyang may tama rin ito sa alak kaya nasabi iyon pero hiyang-hiya siya! Hindi pa siya nakababawi noong marinig ang pagbukas nito sa pinto. Napalunok siya at napakapit sa mga balikat nito noong buhatin siya sa ganoong ayos. Inikot pa nito ang mga hita niya sa bewang nito. "You're Birhen. This will hurt. Hindi pwede sa sasakyan. Saka na... kapag sanay ka na," namimigat nitong bulong na nagpatigil sa paghinga niya. Kumalabog ang dibdib niya. Dumiin ang kapit sa balikat nito noong pumasok ito sa bahay at iakyat siya sa kwarto. Marahan pa siya nitong binagsak sa kama ngunit mabilis na lumuhod sa sahig. Sumisinghap pa lang siya ng paghinga ay pinag-hiwalay na nito ang mga hita niya at agad na sinubsob ang bibig nito sa pagkababae niya. "Sir! Uhโohh!" Pinatigas agad nito ang dila at tinukso-tukso siya. Alam na alam nito ang gagawin. Nawala na nga sa isip niyang hindi pa siya nakapag-shave pero kung hagurin ng dila nito ang ibaba niya ay tila paboritong pagkain nito iyon. "Ahh!" Nailiyad niya ang katawan at naitaas ang bewang na mabilis nitong hinila upang mas maidiin ang bibig nito doon. Ang ngipin nito ay sumasabay kaya halos mahila na niya nang buo ang bedsheet sa nararamdamang init. Pinagpawisan na siya kahit pa malakas ang aircon sa kwarto nito. Hindi yata ito tumigil hangga't hindi naririnig ang mahabang ungol niya, senyales na muli niyang naabot ang langit. Hindi niya maisara ang bibig sa pagsimot nito doon. Kahit noong tumayo na ito ay nanghihina siya at hindi maisara ang mga hita niya. Maliit niyang minulat ang mga mata. Huli niya ang mainit nitong titig sa katawan niya habang nagtatanggal ng kasuotan. Pati mamahaling relo nito ay basta lang nito tinapon sa sofa. Ora mimso noong mahubad nito ang mamahaling boxer short ay gumapang ito sa itaas niya. "Ibuka ang iyong mga binti nang mas malawak, Kitty," senswal nitong utos. Kumakalabog lalo ang dibdib niya at nanunuyo ang lalamunan kahit pa sa hita pa lang niya dumikit ang naghuhumigting nitong sandata. Palad na mismo nito ang humagod sa mga hita niya at mas pinaghiwalay ang mga iyon. Napapikit siya noong tuluyang tumama ang sandata nito sa kaselanan niya. Paulit-ulit na humagod na tila tinutukso siya. Pati ang ilong at bibig nito ay panaka-nakang humalik sa leeg at panga niya na tila dinidistract siya nito. "Sir~" hirap niyang bulong at napakapit sa matigas nitong braso noong maramdaman ang dulo ng sandata nito. Tama ito! Malaki ito at duda siyang kakasya sa kanya. Baka muli lang siyang mapunit nito! Ang balak niyang pagtulak sana dito ay nauwi sa pagkapit sa braso nito noong pilitin nito ang pagpasok. Sumigid ang sakit sa kanya at halos magdugo ang labi sa pagkagat niya. Iyon ang pangalawang beses niya pero sa tagal na siguro ng panahon ay pakiramdam niya, unang beses pa lang niya iyon. Kita niyang umigting ang panga nito at tumalim ang tingin. Kinabahan siyang baka nahuli na siya nito pero nahanap nito ang mga palad niya at parehong pininid sa itaas ng ulo niya. Pinagsalikop nito ang mga kamay nila bago sinagad ang pagpasok na kinahiyaw niya. "Ahh!" Hindi niya ito mapalo, hindi niya mabawi ang mga nakapinid na kamay. Pinuno naman nito ng halik ang mukha niya. "Soon, the pain will fade away, Kitty," panunuyong bulong nito. Hindi na niya makilala ang sariling paghinga. Hinayaan siya nitong kumalma ngunit hindi rin ito nakatiis at nagsimulang umulos nang mabagal. Dinidiinan na lang niya ang kapit sa mga kamay nito kapag sinasagad nito nang buo sa loob niya. Dinig niya ang magaspang nitong ungol at tila nahihirapan ding bumayo sa loob niya. Para itong nagtitimpi sa mabagal na paggalaw. "H-indi ka gumamit ng goma, Sir," wala sa sariling sambit niya. "Doesn't matter. I will do withdrawal, don't worry," pagpapakalma nito. Ilang beses siyang lumunok. Ang balakang niya ay napapataas noong bumilis nang bahagya ang galaw nito. Malinaw sa pandinig niya ang pagsusumpungan ng mga kaselanan nila. Nangangalay ang mga hita niya sa pagkakahiwalay at halos lumubog sa kama sa laki ng katawan nito. "Ow!" malakas niyang hiyaw na hindi niya alam kung ilang beses niya naisigaw noong dumoble ang bilis nito. Para itomg may hinahabol at hindi magkamayaw. Ang kama nito ay tumutunog kasabay ng tunog ng kanilang mga katawan. Para itong nawala sa sarili at nagsunod-sunod ang pagbayo sa loob niya. Naghalo ang pawis nila at maging mga ungol. Napuno ang kwarto ng mga hiyaw niya. Nanghihina na siya noong maramdamang malapit na siya. Nagmadali rin ito at sunod sunod ang ulos hanggang sa magkapanabay silang mapaungol. Pinakawalan nito ang mga kamay niya kasabay ng mainit na likidong bumuhos sa loob niya. Parang tumigil ang tibok ng puso niya. Sa loob nito pinutok! Kinabahan siya. Hinihingal itong bumagsak sa itaas niya. "Sleep, Kitty," inaantok pa nitong bulong. Nataranta siya at gusto itong itulak ngunit napakalaki nito. Sumiksik pa ito sa dibdib niya at wala yatang pakialam kahit nasa loob pa niya ang sandata nito! "Sir, uuwi po ako," pilit niyang gising at tulak dito ngunit humigpit ang yakap nito sa bewang niya. "Later, stay still. Huwag kang gagalaw. Huwag mong gisingin," halos bulong na lang na sambit nito. Nanlamig siya sa tinutukoy nito. Pati tuloy paghinga niya ay napigilan niya huwag lang magising ang sandata nito. Para siyang timang na naghintay na humiwalay ito ngunit hindi niya rin namalayang nakatulog na siya. Paggising ay sikat ng araw ang tumama sa mga mata niya. Nasilaw siya at nahirapang magmulat ng mga mata. Masakit ang katawan niya, partikular ang pagkababae niya at mga hita. Doon nga lang din rumehistro sa kanya ang nangyari kagabi. "Punyeta!" napamura siya matapos matantong umaga na pero naroon pa rin siya sa kwarto ni Sir Hector. Mabilis niyang nilingon ang katabi ngunit wala na ito doon. Hindi na nga niya maalala kung ano'ng oras ito umalis sa itaas niya. Hihinga na sana siya nang maluwag kung hindi lang naramdaman ang madiing titig sa kanya na tumatagos sa balat niya. Napalunok siya at unti-unting napatingin sa harap niya. Sumikdo ang dibdib niya at nahila ang kumot. Naroon sa paanan niya si Sir Hector, nakaayos na ng business suit, nakapamulsa habang may hawak na baso ng brandy. Pinaghalong madiin at malamig na titig ang natanggap niya dito at noong liningon nito ang kama na walang bahid ng dugo, alam na niya agad ang nasa isip nito. "S-ir, m-agpapaliwanag po ako," sobrang kabang sambit niya lalo't tumalim ang titig nito at umigting ang panga. | Philip Spicy Reading | 83301 | https://www.facebook.com/61561349855790/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679589 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/12/25, 4:29 PM | 1738567628 | 1749763770 | 2451 | wwwedb.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | At six years old, I accidentally killed my parents. For the punishment I, an alpha female, became a slave in my own house.. My wolf's abilities were bounded, twiceโa crippling blow that left me vulnerable. As if I were nothing more than property, my brother sold me to a ruthless alpha as part of some clan contract. The rumour I've heard about him that nine fiancee has been killed by him. Then, I discovered that this ruthless alpha, the one who now owned me, was my mate ... | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475407334_1329148118032534_6116596849319658507_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZXG55Ongp8QQ7kNvgFSzIEF&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYDU_y8R6IFafCYsEcharE_Gcy9npHyEYDGhaODvmSr1Sg&oe=67A62FDE | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | "Where is she?" I hear the Beta scream. I groan and rise to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket before heading over. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don't make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times. "Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office." Beta Kyle spits at me. I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If only I could find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. But I didn't need another week locked up with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. "We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Don't you understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!" I don't answer, It's a trap, a ploy to provoke me into saying something that would justify punishment. I keep my eyes lowered, avoiding his gaze. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. He was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn't mess around and he had the largest pack. "He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!" We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He grabs my shoulders, his nails digging into my skin as he turns me around and kicks me into the office. "Useless Wolf." He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean against it, observing the already clean office. It looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don't quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. "Is this the way you greet all Alphas?" His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. "I'm sorry." I whisper, getting to my feet. "I...I thought I was alone." I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. "Come forward." He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey wil kill me. I step around the corner, doing as I'm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. "You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?" I nod, though I couldn't tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. "I would prefer it if you spoke to me." He growls, "I'm not in the mood to play games." "Yes." I whisper. I couldn't help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? "Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me." "I..." I hated the question. "You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It's rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?" His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact."My Wolf abilities were bound," I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn't interested in that part. He leans forward, I could feel him staring at me, "Why would someone do that?" If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. "It was a punishment." I whisper. It wasn't far from the entire truth. There's a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn't tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me "Neah, what are you doing in my office?" He turns to the crimson eyed man. "I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane." Crap, it's him. My brother spins around, hand poised to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. "I wouldn't do that if I were you."Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He is taller than my brother, more muscly too. "Neah," My name rolls off of his tongue, "was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested." What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. "Go and get Beta Kyle." Alpha Trey seethes. "Tell him our guest is here." I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. "Beta Kyle," I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. "Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you." He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. "You're lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't see sunlight for a few days." Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn't speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn't last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. "Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating." I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. "Neah is your sister, correct?" Alpha Dane questions my brother. "She is." Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. "Why do you treat her like trash?" Straight to the point, my brother wouldn't like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn't know what to do. I couldn't move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. "Neah was responsible for our parents' death." Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. "Responsible how?" Alpha Dane's voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. "She served them Wolfsbane." Don't make a sound. Don't make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. "You poisoned your parents?" "I was six." I splutter. "I just made them lemonade." My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. "Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old." "A six year old should know the difference between plants." Alpha Trey snaps "Sounds to me like she was set up." Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of me. "You weren't there, Alpha Dane." My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. "I didn't ask you here to talk about my slave!" Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha's he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha's, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. "You're right and now I have a few things to mull over." "I thought we agreed." My brother exclaims "Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out." The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. "What the heck did you say to him?" My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. "N...nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny." "Did you tell him?" Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. "WELL?" My brother yells when I don't immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. "But I didn't say it was you." I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. "If you have ruined this, you won't see daylight again." He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. "Pleaseโฆ." I beg. "He was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him." My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull... "Alpha Dane, I thought you had left." Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. "I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?" "As I said," my brother holds his ground, "She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves." "You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!" Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. "If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?" Both Alpha Trey and Beta Kyle hold their tongues. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. I see those crimson eyes land on my swollen face. "I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey." Alpha Dane speaks up again. "We have already agreed on terms." "Well, I'm adding one. And if you don't agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don't want that." "I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?" Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. "You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal." Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? "Deal." Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn't take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. "I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow." He reaches a hand out and cups my face, "Ensure you have everything packed." He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. "If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about." He struts out, slamming the door behind him. After Dane leaves, my brother grabs me by the collar. "You think you're going to have a good life if you follow Alpha Dane out of here? Don't be naive!" He continues in a vicious voice. "He's the coldest man in the world, he's killed nine of his mates, I'm waiting to see what happens to you!" | New world publications | 3796 | https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679690 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567636 | 1745816685 | 2451 | kosstom.com | Shop Now | CAROUSEL | Wear Art, Not Just a Hat | A masterpiece on your head. | https://kosstom.com/en-us/products/eugenia-in-black?_pos=2&_sid=431d41c28&_ss=r&variant=42330379223212_pos=2&_sid=431d41c28&_ss=r&variant=42331097727148 | 1.0470698854553E+14 | Kosstom | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475645899_1292885961983454_672095985673590361_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JhbM_wjZaewQ7kNvgG8M3RP&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYBA2pb0oyPgHPPRe4TjSbPTOKdaEAOxrHTsDmYVI-j1ow&oe=67A64CD0 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | A masterpiece on your head. | Kosstom | 62 | https://www.facebook.com/kosstomhat/ | 0 | SHOP_NOW | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679693 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/26/25, 11:51 PM | 1738567636 | 1748321516 | 2451 | kosstom.com | Shop Now | CAROUSEL | Wear Art, Not Just a Hat | A masterpiece on your head. | https://kosstom.com/en-us/products/eugenia-in-black?_pos=2&_sid=431d41c28&_ss=r&variant=42330379223212_pos=2&_sid=431d41c28&_ss=r&variant=42331097727148 | 1.0470698854553E+14 | Kosstom | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475645899_1292885961983454_672095985673590361_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JhbM_wjZaewQ7kNvgG8M3RP&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYBA2pb0oyPgHPPRe4TjSbPTOKdaEAOxrHTsDmYVI-j1ow&oe=67A64CD0 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | A masterpiece on your head. | Kosstom | 62 | https://www.facebook.com/kosstomhat/ | 0 | SHOP_NOW | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679694 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567636 | 1745816685 | 2451 | kosstom.com | Shop Now | CAROUSEL | Wear Art, Not Just a Hat | A masterpiece on your head. | https://kosstom.com/en-us/products/eugenia-in-black?_pos=2&_sid=431d41c28&_ss=r&variant=42330379223212_pos=2&_sid=431d41c28&_ss=r&variant=42331097727148 | 1.0470698854553E+14 | Kosstom | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475645899_1292885961983454_672095985673590361_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JhbM_wjZaewQ7kNvgG8M3RP&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYBA2pb0oyPgHPPRe4TjSbPTOKdaEAOxrHTsDmYVI-j1ow&oe=67A64CD0 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | A masterpiece on your head. | Kosstom | 62 | https://www.facebook.com/kosstomhat/ | 0 | SHOP_NOW | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679706 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/27/25, 12:00 AM | 1738567637 | 1748322006 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | VIDEO | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/67179322-fb_contact-enj83_6-0110-c3-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1721275375067958&exdata=303AD0586C0A3DED61313CC17139213F636613443E83A792 | 4.3210510665256E+14 | Fragrant Fiction | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474778246_8988329684588110_5252277116467783569_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rpDDdBUj3NAQ7kNvgHP9Ewc&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYBh_1MS3-NSDWNOQBwO-zlcYy3iV3M8jjEZXfq3tuxtqg&oe=67A628E5 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Rumors claimed she was an uneducated, hot-tempered bumpkin. She sneered and revealed her true identity as a renowned designer, gaming pro, celebrated artist, and business tycoon, leaving everyone stunned! ===== "We're here to escort you home, Miss Morgan." "Your parents have been tirelessly searching for you over the years. Upon discovering your whereabouts, they promptly dispatched us to ensure your return." Fernanda Morgan surveyed the men in crisply tailored suits who stood before her, he appeared to be a butler. "Moreover, the Harper family is keenly anticipating your return. You are to be engaged to Mr. Harper once you return!" "Alright then. Let's go," Fernanda agreed with a slight nod. She collected her already-packed belongings and stepped into the vehicle. The journey from the small town of Zhota to Esaham was a long one, spanning at least two days by car. As dusk enveloped the sky, they pulled into another small town. The butler located a modestly appealing motel and proposed they stay overnight. Fernanda's accommodation was at the far end of the second-floor hallway, Room 201--arguably the best room available. The butler and the rest of their group opted to stay on the lower floor. The night was unusually warm and dry, rendering the room's aging air conditioner useless. Fernanda opened the window to invite a cool breeze, causing the curtains to dance gently in the evening air. Fresh from her shower, she dimmed the lights and crawled into bed for the night. Drifting into a light sleep, she was jolted awake by a disturbance outside. A subsequent noise at the window snapped her to full alert. As she bolted upright, a shadowy figure burst through, launching itself onto her bed. The freezing touch of a bl*de hovered at her neck as a low, threatening voice growled, "Don't you dare move." Immobile, Fernanda's body clenched in fear. The faint, iron tang of bl**d lingered on the man's sleeve--a grim reminder of his dangerousness. This unmistakable hint solidified the fact: this man was no one to mess with. Outside, the commotion intensified. Shortly after, a forceful knock resonated at the door. A coarse voice demanded, "Is anyone there? Open up now!" As the voice still echoed, the kn*fe at Fernanda's neck dug in slightly deeper. The man's voice dripped with malice as he warned, "Get rid of them, or you're as good as dead." His right arm ensnared her waist, his left hand unwavering with the kn*fe at her throat. Through his firm grip and calculated movements, Fernanda realized he was deadly serious. Cornered, she knew she had to play along for the time being. "Sure." With a soft, steady voice, Fernanda reassured him. "It'll all be okay." With no answer from inside, the outsiders used a master key to unlock the door and stormed in. At the sound, the man jerked Fernanda's baggy T-shirt, pulling her down onto his lap and encircling her with his arm, forcing her to straddle him as he shifted position. Right then, the door flung open, and a stark beam of flashlight flooded the room. Fernanda let out a panicked scream, quickly bending over the man to obscure him from view. "Sweetheart, what the hell is this place? How could anyone have the audacity to barge in like that?" Acting as though she was terrified, Fernanda held onto the man, her grip firm and desperate. Her voice, usually sweet and enticing, now carried an edge of annoyance mingled with a breathless charm that was utterly captivating. Suddenly, Fernanda felt the man beneath her tense up. Seconds later, he encircled her with his arm and expertly flipped over, drawing the blanket over both their bodies. As the blanket slid, its soft whispers merged with the steady rhythm of their breaths, painting a scene of understated sensuality. Faces flushed with embarrassment, the group at the door stood stiffly, unprepared for the private display before them. Nonetheless, the couple inside the room showed no signs of halting their intimate exchange. The motel's security guard chuckled uncomfortably, "Looks like they're pretty busy... Maybe we ought to leave, huh?" One of the men brushed past the guard and entered the room with a purposeful stride. Fernanda's heartbeat skyrocketed as she heard the footsteps drawing near. Could they actually be contemplating unveiling them? A chilling bl*de pressed against her side, its pointed tip grazing her skin, sending a shiver through her already tense body. The footsteps halted next to the bed, and with a surge of courage, Fernanda leaned in closer to the man beneath her. Pulled back gently, the blanket gave way to the flashlight's piercing light, exposing a glimpse of her delicate, b*re back. In the softness of the bed, their movements continued unabated. Fernanda's lips met his in a fervent kiss, her hair cascading down to obscure his face, while his hand gently caressed her side. The subdued m**ns that slipped from their lips lent the scene an air of genuine intimacy. Abruptly, a voice erupted from beyond the room, piercing the tranquility. "Boss! Something's going down out on the street!" Instantly, the man at the bedside sprang to his feet and vanished through the door. With the door slamming behind him, Fernanda disentangled herself and slipped from the bed. Moonlight seeped through a crack in the curtains, casting delicate shadows across the room. The man watched as Fernanda's slender figure was silhouetted against the pale light. Memories of earlier washed over him; his fingers traced her skin, so smooth and velvety. She had gripped his arms, her delicate skin pressing softly against his. Her hair had brushed his face, each strand silky, carrying a subtle fragrance. Her voice had been a soft melody, soothing to his ears. This woman was serene and astute. Amid the intrusion, rather than succumb to panic, she had pressed her lips to his, a kiss so convincing it had deceived the pursuers. Her technique was rather clumsy, only pressing her lips against his without any other movement--evidently her first kiss. Breaking the ensuing quiet, the man's voice softened from its usual sternness to a rasp tinged with all**re. "Was that your first kiss?" Chapter 2 That's Gross With deliberate movements, Fernanda pulled out a piece of clothing from her suitcase, her voice sharp and cool. "This is none of your concern. I think it's time for you to leave." All she desired at that moment was to hasten the man's departure. Barely a moment before, when he had embraced her, his fingers had brushed against her back, lingering just a moment too long. The calluses on his fingertips were coarse, betraying more wear than most. His adeptness with a knife and his swift reflexes hinted at a background that was far from ordinary. Cutting off the thought immediately, Fernanda dismissed any curiosity about his background. From below, the blare of a car horn shattered the silence. The man stood up smoothly. During their earlier intimacy, he had loosened his shirt, though his trousers remained crisply in place. He buttoned his shirt as he approached the window and casually tossed something to Fernanda. "My apologies for any discomfort caused earlier. Consider this your compensation," he said with a nod. With the graceful precision of a panther, he sprang out of the window. Fernanda approached the window, peering out into the night where, under the faint illumination of the streetlights, she observed him scale the wall effortlessly. He navigated the ledges until he merged with the shadows. She stooped to retrieve the object he had left--a sleek black card. The night's disruptions had been met with suitable compensation--a fair recompense. Fernanda pocketed the card and drew the curtains closed. The following morning, the butler approached Fernanda with a look of concern etched across his face. "Miss Morgan, I hope you managed to rest last night. There was an inspection for a burglary, which stirred quite the disturbance." She shrugged casually and muttered, "It was fine." As they drove, the butler stole glances at Fernanda through the rearview mirror. Reclined in her seat, she gazed out the window, her elegant profile cast in contemplative silence. He mused quietly to himself that she did not embody the typical country-raised youth. Her calm sophistication and graceful demeanor set her apart, enhancing her natural charm and making her an effortlessly endearing presence. After two days of travel, Fernanda stepped into the bustling streets of Esaham. The city was a teeming metropolis, alive with vibrant streets and a relentless stream of traffic. Shortly after 8 a.m., a stretch Lincoln limousine glided into the upscale estate of Dawn Villas, coming to a halt in front of a majestic three-story white villa. Stepping gracefully from the limousine, Fernanda let her eyes wander over the grandeur of the building before her. The villa, both opulent and imposing, was a testament to vast wealth. Her lips curled into a faint, almost mocking smile as she gave it a scrutinizing glance. This was her father Robert Morgan's residence. From humble beginnings, he had climbed to wealth and status with her late mother's support. After amassing his fortune, Robert had coldly cast aside her mother, choosing to revel in a relationship with his mistress. That woman--Michelle Morgan--had contributed nothing to his success, yet she now sat smugly in the seat Fernanda's mother had rightfully earned. She basked in the luxuries and respect that were never hers to claim. Worse still, Michelle had dared to flaunt her victory, parading her stolen life before Fernanda's grieving mother, a cruelty that had ultimately led to Fernanda's mother's untimely death. To the world, Michelle was seen as Robert's second wife, a symbol of grace and charm. Michelle even had the audacity to claim she was Fernanda's real mother. But Fernanda knew better. Behind the polished veneer lay the truth, raw and unforgiving. Fernanda's dark eyes momentarily hardened, a flicker of steely determination glinting within them. Her mother was no longer here to seek justice, but Fernanda vowed she would deliver it on her behalf. Just then, the villa's grand door swung open, revealing the pair responsible for the upheaval in her life. Robert stood tall and pristine, the sharp lines of his tailored suit accentuating his stature. His gold-rimmed glasses reflected the warm light, adding an air of calculated sophistication. At his side was Michelle, the very picture of elegance. Her fitted dress clung perfectly to her poised figure, exuding refinement and composure. "Fernanda, you've come back." Robert greeted warmly, a smile playing on his lips as he waved her over. "Come in." Fernanda's eyes darted downward, concealing the storm of emotions swirling within her. With a tentative step, she moved closer. Robert, with an arm encircling Michelle's waist, introduced her with a gesture. "Fernanda, this is your mother." With a casual wave toward the living room, he remarked, "And that's Erika, your sister." On the couch, Erika Morgan was engaged with the television, only looking up when Fernanda approached. Her eyes narrowed judgmentally at Fernanda's plain dress, her face contorting into a sneer. With an exaggerated eye-roll and a sarcastic tone, Erika muttered, "That country bumpkin? Dad, she's no sister of mine." Michelle approached Fernanda with a warm smile, linking her arm with Fernanda's. "Oh, Fernanda, Erika's just teasing. Pay her no mind. I've prepared breakfast for you. You must be starving. Let's have something to eat." Silently, Fernanda slipped her arm free and strode with determined steps into the dining room. Michelle paused, her smile faltering as a shadow of confusion crossed her face. She turned to Robert, her voice tinged with concern. "Robert, what's gotten into her?" He sighed, his voice a blend of empathy and resignation, "Fernanda was raised in the countryside. She's a bit unrefined, that's all. It's nothing against you, Michelle." Michelle nodded slowly, a soft smile reclaiming her features. "No worries," she murmured, her resolve firming. "I'll guide her as she settles in, teach her the essentials of elegance, and shape her into a poised young woman." Robert gave a supportive pat on her back, his expression one of appreciative assurance. In the dining room, Michelle seated herself next to Fernanda. "Fernanda, you must try this beef," she insisted, placing a tender slice onto Fernanda's plate. "It's Erika's favorite." Fernanda responded by promptly lifting the beef from her plate and dropping it into an empty plate with a clear look of disgust. "That's gross," she stated flatly, her voice void of any warmth. Chapter 3 How Could You Lie? The moment those words left Fernanda's lips, the entire table came to a standstill, their expressions a mix of shock and disbelief. Erika, her patience fraying, brought her hand down hard on the table and demanded, "Country bumpkin, what are you even saying? My mom was kind enough to offer you this beef, and you have the nerve to be rude about it?" Fernanda met their astonished looks with a mask of feigned innocence. "I was clearly referring to the beef," she said with a deliberate pause. "It's raw and quite frankly, it looks unappetizing. What else could I possibly mean?" "You..." Erika's retort faltered, caught in her throat. Admitting that she thought Fernanda was insulting Michelle was out of the question. With a slow, calculated blink, Fernanda went on, "Unless, perhaps, you think there's something even more gross on this table than the raw beef?" At this, Erika's face registered sheer astonishment, and for a split second, her voice seemed to have deserted her entirely. Not a single word could she muster. It was Michelle who broke the awkward silence, interjecting smoothly, "Fernanda, the dish you're referring to is called beef tartare. It's a renowned delicacy made from top-notch beef and a pasteurized egg, typically found in high-end dining establishments. Perhaps it's something you've not had the opportunity to try before." Her voice subtly implied that Fernanda's simpler past might not have included such refined culinary experiences. Fernanda allowed a mischievous smirk to play at the corners of her lips and replied, "Our ancestors honed an array of sophisticated recipes and techniques. They certainly didn't refine these culinary arts for us to regress to consuming raw meat as if we were lost in the wild." Michelle's expression briefly betrayed a touch of discomfort, yet she managed to sustain a polite smile, nodding her agreement somewhat rigidly. "You bring up a valid point, I'll give you that." "I agree. I'm not fond of beef tartare either," Robert added with a nod, his gaze settling on Fernanda with evident pride. "I've always preferred classic tastes myself. It seems Fernanda has inherited that from me." Fernanda offered a subdued smile, delicately wiping her fork on a napkin after attempting the beef tartare, then resumed eating with a composed demeanor, seemingly unaffected by Erika's glaring resentment. Michelle suddenly ventured a soft query. "Fernanda, which university are you attending these days? Erika is at Luminary University, one of the top schools in the country. What about you?" At this, Erika's face morphed into a self-satisfied grin. Robert's tone grew cooler as he intervened on Fernanda's behalf. "I've spoken to a few contacts back in Fernanda's hometown. Currently, she isn't enrolled in any university." Michelle's eyes went wide, her voice cutting through the silence as she blurted, "What did you just say? Fernanda isn't attending any university? That simply cannot be! What will happen when the Harpers find out? Mrs. Harper had just mentioned a few days ago that they were planning a grand welcome party for Fernanda upon her return. If they learn she's not enrolled anywhere, it could be disastrous." Robert intervened, his tone laced with irritation, cutting through Michelle's rising panic. "Enough. I will take care of Fernanda's education myself." From the corner, Erika couldn't suppress a snicker. Imagining Fernanda managing to sneak into some low-ranked school through connections was downright amusing to her. The Harper family, celebrating the arrival of what Erika considered a rural nobody, was an absurd thought. Fernanda's crude and graceless demeanor would certainly earn their disapproval the moment they saw her. Erika found Bobby Harper quite charming, but his family's insistence on honoring their promise to engage him to Fernanda and pushing Robert to reintegrate Fernanda into their circles seemed ridiculously foolish to her. She was convinced that the Harper family would never develop an affinity for someone as lacking in education as Fernanda. The mood around the table grew tense as they discussed Fernanda's academic prospects. Amidst the awkward silence, Fernanda herself reached for a napkin, dabbing at her lips gracefully. "I have already registered to take the entrance exam for Esaham University," she announced, her voice steady and clear. "Assuming all goes well, I plan to attend there in the near future." Erika was caught off guard and, for a moment, was speechless before she burst into unrestrained laughter. The idea that Esaham University, the most prestigious in the nation where seats were as coveted as gold, would allow Fernanda to take the entrance exam was laughable. Clearly, this was a lie. Robert's demeanor hardened, his eyes narrowing with a frosty glare. He furrowed his brow in disapproval and said sternly, "Fernanda, how could you lie about being granted the opportunity to take the entrance exam for Esaham University? Was lying the only lesson you picked up in your little hometown?" "Honey, calm down," Michelle interjected quickly. "Fernanda was only trying to impress you." Turning to Fernanda with a soft, maternal expression, Michelle remarked in a soothing tone, "There's no shame in skipping college, Fernanda. You don't have to pretend or feel lesser because of it. We're family here, and we don't judge you on such matters." Her words, though gentle, were saturated with disbelief, assuming Fernanda was fabricating her story. Fernanda, without a word of defense, simply pulled out her smartphone. After a few taps, she pushed it across the table towards the center. Everyone leaned in to see the display. Erika's laughter stopped abruptly as she stared at the screen. Displayed prominently was Fernanda's Esaham University entrance exam admission ticket, complete with her photo and name in bold. Snatching the phone, Erika's eyes grew wide as she inspected it repeatedly. Her anger boiling over, she tossed it away and exclaimed, "This can't be real! You edited this, didn't you?" Chapter 4 This Girl Is Something Else "This isn't a photo--it's an online document," Fernanda stated in an even tone, her voice steady and clear. "Notice the Esaham University web address at the top?" Erika was at a loss for words. Her complexion lost its color as silence enveloped her. Entry to Esaham University was notoriously difficult, achievable only through the rigorous standardized exam or by excelling in the university's specialized admission test. This test was reserved for the truly outstanding, drawing candidates from diverse disciplines and making the chance to compete a rare gem. How did Fernanda manage to secure a spot to attend the admission test? Suddenly, Robert's hand was on Fernanda's phone, his eyes scanning the text again and again. Any annoyance he felt quickly dissipated, replaced by bubbling excitement. A rich, joyful laughter escaped him as he declared, "Brilliant, Fernanda! Absolutely brilliant!" The way Fernanda managed to secure such an incredible opportunity didn't concern him. What mattered most to him was the overwhelming pride he felt, knowing she had this chance to take the exam. With a stiff smile and a voice laced with tension, Michelle replied, "Yes, well done." "What's so great about that?" Erika scoffed, her voice dripping with disdain. "It's not as if she's actually going to pass." "But it's certainly better than not being qualified to try at all, right?" Fernanda retorted smoothly. Color rushed to Erika's cheeks, her anger palpable. She slammed her fork down, the clatter echoing sharply. "I've had enough!" she declared vehemently, before storming off in a huff. After dinner, Robert and Michelle walked Fernanda to her cozy and thoughtfully prepared room. The room was airy and uncluttered, resonating with Fernanda's love for understated elegance. "Across the hall is your sister's room," Michelle explained, her voice carrying a warm undertone. "Next to yours is your elder brother's. He's often caught up with work commitments and rarely at home. Your younger brother, who's currently at a summer camp overseas, has his room beside Erika's." She continued, a smile softening her features, "If there's anything you need to make your stay more comfortable, please don't hesitate to tell me, dear." Robert watched Michelle with a look of quiet approval. "Thank you," Fernanda murmured, her eyes downcast as she spoke. "I think I'll take a shower now." At that, Robert and Michelle excused themselves, leaving Fernanda to her privacy. As she stepped under the spray, cool water washed over her, drenching her face and lending a luminous sheen to her eyes. They sparkled against the backdrop of water droplets on her lashes, enhancing the serene yet frosty allure of her features. Once out of the shower, Fernanda blow-dried her hair until it was just damp. As Fernanda from the bathroom, she dug through the suitcase and found a photo of Hiram Hammond. The photo was a solemn memorial portrait of Hiram. Though not bound to her by blood, he had nurtured her with unwavering care and affection. To Fernanda, he was her entire world, her only family. That cherished photo, a tribute to his memory, was something she couldn't afford to lose. Gazing at the kind, gentle face in the photo, Fernanda was enveloped by a surge of affection. With gentle hands, she cleaned the photograph and lovingly placed it on a side table in the room. Within the next two days, the villa had welcomed two additional guests--Michelle's nephew and niece. The man exhibited an unseemly l**tfulness, with his gaze persistently fixed on Fernanda whenever he could manage. Meanwhile, the woman had aligned herself with Erika, openly manifesting her contempt and animosity toward Fernanda through both overt and subtle jabs. Disenchanted by their presence, Fernanda chose to distance herself from the villa's stifling atmosphere. As the sun dawdled on the brink of the horizon, the evening air, warm yet prickled with tension, brushed against her. Seeking a brief escape, Fernanda wandered to a convenience store and picked up a can of cold beer. Positioned against a lamppost, she deftly popped open the can single-handedly. The refreshing chill of the beer soothed her throat as she drank. A slight tilt of her head caused the collar of her shirt to shift delicately, exposing the elegant contour of her collarbone. With an air of sophistication, her neck arched gracefully, like someone relishing a glass of champagne in an exclusive bar. Having savored the last drop, Fernanda tossed the can with a casual flick of her wrist, watching it arc smoothly into the bin with a satisfying clink. Not far off, someone hidden in the dim interior of a black sedan watched intently. Bobby, palpably impressed, turned to his companion and remarked with a mix of awe and admiration, "Cristian, this girl is something else!" Chapter 5 Attacked Cristian Reed, who was sprawling in the backseat, remained silent, his eyes firmly shut. "Wow, the girl is stunning! Check out those legs--so beautiful and flawless! Did you see her toss that can, Cristian? She's got skills that could rival yours!" Bobby's incessant babble finally pierced Cristian's reserve. With a sigh, Cristian's eyes fluttered open. Just then, the headlights from an approaching vehicle swept across his face, accentuating its angular contours and highlighting a small mole beneath his eye. Drawing out his words, Cristian replied with a lazy drawl, his voice a deep, soothing rumble laced with a trace of exhaustion, "Aren't you getting engaged soon? Isn't the eldest Morgan daughter meant to be yours?" Bobby visibly flinched at the mention, his expression contorting into one of clear distaste. "She's nothing but a stray who got lost as a child and grew up in some nowhere place. Who's to say she isn't just a goddamn ugly rural bumpkin? My friends probably see me as some unlucky fool. Cristian, you are my cousin. You should not make fun of me like they do!" Cristian merely crossed his arms, extending his long legs and settling back more comfortably without a word. The silence seemed to deepen Bobby's frustration, as if sealing his fate. Yet, as Bobby's eyes landed on the girl's striking figure under the streetlight again, his mood shifted, and a flicker of curiosity lit up his face. With a playful grin, Bobby lowered the window and leaned slightly out, his tone dripping with charm. "Hey there, gorgeous. Can I offer you a ride?" "No, thank you." Her words were crisp and frosty, cutting through the evening like a cold breeze, leaving a chill that touched both men. In the backseat, Cristian's body tensed. His eyes snapped open, his head whipping around toward the sound of the voice. That voice? It unmistakably belonged to the girl he had met in that dimly lit motel. Cristian acted with such swiftness that he seemed to blur the lines between thought and action as he swung the car door open and emerged. Fernanda mistook his approach for a mere flirtatious gesture. Without giving him another thought, she turned away and continued on her path. She had only taken a few steps when she felt a strong, unyielding grip halt her progress. She spun around, coming face-to-face with the man who had stopped her. Towering and strikingly handsome, he possessed an aura of undeniable presence. One hand was nonchalantly placed in his pocket, while the other securely grasped her arm. His piercing gaze locked with hers. "Well, if it isn't you!" Cristian muttered slowly, a hint of recognition in his voice. "Seems like we keep meeting, huh?" Fernanda's eyes flickered with surprise as she realized who he was--the man from that unforgettable night. Given that he was a dangerous fugitive, she wanted to keep her distance from him. Swiftly regaining her composure, she adopted an aloof demeanor. "I'm sorry, sir. You must be mistaken," she replied evenly. "No," Cristian responded, his voice low and steady, a slight smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "A debt of gratitude is something I never forget." His remark revealed a depth to his character. For Cristian, repaying a good deed wasn't just a courtesy--it was a principle he lived by. Meanwhile, Bobby had exited the car and now stood a short distance away, his expression one of utter bewilderment. "What's going on?" he inquired. Cristian brushed off Bobby's presence, focusing instead on holding the car door open for Fernanda with a subtle nod. Fernanda stayed rooted in place, her gaze sharp with caution. "What do you mean by that?" "I'd like to take you to dinner. Would you join me?" Cristian urged with a warm, inviting smile. It came across as a question, but Fernanda could discern from the inflection in his voice that he wasn't genuinely offering her an option to decline. Her familiarity with his nature left no room for misunderstanding. Refusing him might only provoke him to force her into the car himself. With a sigh, she gave a subdued nod. "Fine." A faint smile flickered across Cristian's face as he graciously gestured for her to enter, then smoothly took his place behind the wheel. Bobby blinked in shock, his mouth hanging open. "You've got to be kidding me, Cristian. This is incredible!" Cristian had effortlessly ensnared the alluring girl with a mere handful of words, an accomplishment Bobby found profoundly impressive. As Bobby tried the back door, he found it unexpectedly locked. "Cristian?" he inquired, a hint of confusion in his tone. Cristian commanded firmly, "Leave." Frozen in place in the brisk evening air, Bobby watched the sleek black car vanish into the shadows of the night. He was the first to spot the girl! Why had they left him behind? Inside the car, Cristian shattered the lingering silence by firing off a torrent of questions. "Are you from Esaham or Zhota?" "Zhota," she answered softly. "And your name?" "Letty Molina." "How old are you?" "Twenty-five," Fernanda replied, her voice barely above a whisper. Cristian stole a sideways glance at her, his voice laced with skepticism. "Doesn't seem like it." "Reality seldom mirrors our expectations," Fernanda replied, her tone unwavering. "Take your appearance, for instance. In that impeccable suit, you're the perfect picture of a business tycoon. Yet, you're the same fugitive I stumbled upon the other night." Cristian couldn't help but laugh, a hint of amusement in his voice. "You do have a point." Fernanda was finally no longer feigning ignorance about their past encounter. Cristian was relieved. Had she chosen to continue her charade, he had his own methods to have her drop the act. As usual, Esaham's traffic was a snarled mess. Cristian veered onto a less congested side street, hoping to evade the endless sea of cars. Breaking the silence, he suggested, "I know a cozy spot run by a Zhota native--serves excellent food. Let's head there." "Sure," she replied, her tone calm but firm. Just as Fernanda's reply hung in the air, a jarring crash echoed from behind, jolting the car forward. She was thrust back, the seatbelt gnawing into her shoulder. Cristian's gaze darted to the rearview mirror. Suddenly, a van cut sharply across their path, blocking them. On either side, vehicles converged, spilling out men brandishing grim tools, their silhouettes ominous in the dim streetlight. Without hesitation, Cristian reached into the center console, retrieving a kn*fe. "Whatever happens, keep yourself inside the car. Don't even think about stepping out," he instructed firmly, pressing her back into the seat. With a resolute nod, he went on, "I'll take care of them, and afterward, dinner's on me." Cristian wrapped up his conversation, offering Fernanda a fleeting smile that appeared untouched by the surrounding tension. Fernanda folded her arms and settled deeper into her seat, her face a mask of tranquility as she observed Cristian approach the group of armed adversaries. The scene was stark--one man facing off against a throng armed to the teeth. The odds were clearly not in his favor. Yet, as Cristian lifted his foot and dispatched two of the men to the ground with a single, silent kick, Fernanda took note of his precision and power. His technique spoke of extensive training and raw capability. The gang, incited by Cristian's defiance, rushed at him collectively. Sticks sliced through the air, each strike landing with a dense thud that echoed menace. Cristian, however, danced through the tumult with a grace that seemed almost serene. Despite their advantage in numbers, his assailants found themselves floundering to overpower him. One attacker received a blunt punch straight to the face, staggering backward and eventually collapsing against the hood of Cristian's car. As he dabbed at the bl**d dripping from his nose, the man snarled in rage. Catching sight of Fernanda inside the vehicle, a sinister idea sparked within him... ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fragrant Fiction | 55 | https://www.facebook.com/61565957015132/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679632 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/12/25, 5:39 PM | 1738567631 | 1749767954 | 2451 | discover.mollurahairtransplant.com | Learn More | DCO | Free Consultation | {{product.description}} | https://discover.mollurahairtransplant.com/hair-transplant-sm | 1.017344995789E+14 | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474796311_2672418072946492_2300593462350207438_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TYRp0PZ7AegQ7kNvgEZIjpQ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYAzKOt2moTgGZw6VCuKSC6EJKc3b0N2eZ5v9jqm8uFNPA&oe=67A6463E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Turn Back Time on Hair Loss! โฐ Reclaim your confidence with a FUE Hair Transplant at Mollura Hair Restoration. Dr. Anthony Mollura has performed more than 7,000 hair restoration procedures over the last 25 years. Book your FREE Hair Consultation Today! | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | 54 | https://www.facebook.com/molluramedical/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679611 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567630 | 1745816685 | 2451 | greenchef.com | Get Offer | DCO | 50% Off + 20% for 2 Months | Don't miss out! | https://www.greenchef.com/plans/?c=FB-26JT&mealsize=2-3&dm=meals&utm_source=meta&utm_medium=cpm&utm_campaign=Paid_Social_Meta_cg_NC_ML_9___50-20x8_sk-nofs___GC-BAU-50Off+20Off-No-Free-Shipping__&utm_content=act_paidsocial_paidsocial&vs_campaign_id=6bd3225a-96b2-48b6-b0ba-f220e7943eb4&discount_comm_id=122687d8-29cb-4b92-87c8-b5e9a6f57b65 | 1.513522665533E+15 | Green Chef | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475650941_3991410037782865_167509731352829342_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UXgV0oNv6XQQ7kNvgGFVp8h&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYDrtAsAsbH-nw3qWByW0an3x9gPYO5hVaT0UdvbRnjKPQ&oe=67A63B7D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Why Green Chef?๐ ๐ค Get 50% Off Your First Box ๐ +20% for 2 Months ๐ฅฆ Veggie, Keto and GF plans ๐ฅ Quick & Easy meals | Green Chef | 374792 | https://www.facebook.com/GreenChefPage/ | 0 | GET_OFFER | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679667 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/12/25, 8:39 PM | 1738567633 | 1749778765 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=304554039400649&exdata=C53DCDAE4F2816FF882790799D3CA6339B25B575F620EAE7 | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475755252_1134536191412994_1355857603852494755_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZVR_w8erzJkQ7kNvgHAYH2p&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYAuBJUfDNipTCmQ4q4LAIsfdcDUihdIVy7GQUaT-KB38g&oe=67A63BA9 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | After being released, her malicious stepsister threatened her with their mother's life and tried to send her to an older man. On her way to "sacrifice" herself, she unexpectedly met a mafia kingpin. She took the initiative to seduce him for a partnership. From then on, she turned the tablesโtearing apart the fake angel, slapping her stepmother, and refusing to be bullied again! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &10& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679717 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/26/25, 11:52 PM | 1738567642 | 1748321524 | 2451 | medicalspapromos.com | Learn more | IMAGE | ๐ชTransform Your Face & Body with Our Rejuvenation Treatments | Free Medical Aesthetics Consultation | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/nosweat-fort-wayne-04-optin | 4.8044227515946E+14 | NoSweat Fort Wayne IN | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474757401_1720902412144627_8651248862594822695_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j2cMw7l06uIQ7kNvgHxnVCX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYAggsTZQrZDBi7KVrARp_1QCgJR4Efks_gMc8mPHQeYTA&oe=67A64C75 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ฃ ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐๐ค๐ง๐ฉ ๐๐๐ฎ๐ฃ๐ & ๐๐ช๐ง๐ง๐ค๐ช๐ฃ๐๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ผ๐ง๐๐๐จ! ๐ Say goodbye to saggy skin and hello to a more youthful look! ๐ โ Our personalized treatments can lift, tighten, and enhance the face and body, all while being safe and non-invasive! ๐โโ๏ธ ๐ฐ For a limited time only, claim a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards our most popular ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป treatment packages, including: ๐ ๐ฆ๐ธ๐ถ๐ป ๐ง๐ถ๐ด๐ต๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Non-surgical treatments that firm and tighten excess skin caused by aging or weight loss on the face and body! ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Reduce stubborn fat without the risks and downtime of surgery! ๐ ๐ฅ๐ ๐ฆ๐ธ๐ถ๐ป ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐๐๐ฟ๐ณ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Counteracts years of sun damage, acne scarring, stretch marks and large pores as it visibly removes fine lines! Safe for all skin tones, treats all areas with minimal downtime! ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ฎ๐ถ๐ฟ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐บ๐ผ๐๐ฎ๐น ($๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Gently & permanently reduce or remove hair from any area of the body! ๐ ๐๐บ๐๐ฒ๐น๐น๐ฎ ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): First device of its kind that is FDA-cleared to strengthen the pelvic floor, improve bladder control & enhance intimacy for both men and women! ๐ฉโโ๏ธ Here at ๐ก๐ผ๐ฆ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ ๐ช๐ฎ๐๐ป๐ฒ Our experienced team works to create a treatment plan tailored to each individual's unique needs and budget. Don't wait!! Request a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ now and take the first step towards a more confident you! ๐ฏ Click [LEARN MORE] to claim the offer! ๐ | NoSweat Fort Wayne IN | 19 | https://www.facebook.com/61571194635654/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679719 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/26/25, 11:52 PM | 1738567643 | 1748321544 | 2451 | www.medicalspapromos.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐ชTransform Your Face & Body with Our Rejuvenation Treatments | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/nosweat-fort-wayne-04-optin | 4.8044227515946E+14 | NoSweat Fort Wayne IN | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474456178_1303803897607189_7619963705396963484_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0-5OeY2t_V4Q7kNvgHiGime&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYAm5GsLx1D_yPYsiOK5efwssY2uuIBAoyp2iZKS6uhxRQ&oe=67A63104 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ฃ ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐๐ค๐ง๐ฉ ๐๐๐ฎ๐ฃ๐ & ๐๐ช๐ง๐ง๐ค๐ช๐ฃ๐๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ผ๐ง๐๐๐จ! ๐ Say goodbye to saggy skin and hello to a more youthful look! ๐ โ Our personalized treatments can lift, tighten, and enhance the face and body, all while being safe and non-invasive! ๐โโ๏ธ ๐ฐ For a limited time only, claim a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards our most popular ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป treatment packages, including: ๐ ๐ฆ๐ธ๐ถ๐ป ๐ง๐ถ๐ด๐ต๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Non-surgical treatments that firm and tighten excess skin caused by aging or weight loss on the face and body! ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Reduce stubborn fat without the risks and downtime of surgery! ๐ ๐ฅ๐ ๐ฆ๐ธ๐ถ๐ป ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐๐๐ฟ๐ณ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Counteracts years of sun damage, acne scarring, stretch marks and large pores as it visibly removes fine lines! Safe for all skin tones, treats all areas with minimal downtime! ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ฎ๐ถ๐ฟ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐บ๐ผ๐๐ฎ๐น ($๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Gently & permanently reduce or remove hair from any area of the body! ๐ ๐๐บ๐๐ฒ๐น๐น๐ฎ ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): First device of its kind that is FDA-cleared to strengthen the pelvic floor, improve bladder control & enhance intimacy for both men and women! ๐ฉโโ๏ธ Here at ๐ก๐ผ๐ฆ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ ๐ช๐ฎ๐๐ป๐ฒ Our experienced team works to create a treatment plan tailored to each individual's unique needs and budget. Don't wait!! Request a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ now and take the first step towards a more confident you! ๐ฏ Click [LEARN MORE] to claim the offer! ๐ | NoSweat Fort Wayne IN | 19 | https://www.facebook.com/61571194635654/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679730 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/12/25, 8:00 PM | 1738567644 | 1749776444 | 2451 | Get quote | VIDEO | Junk Removal: Starting at $69 | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474656061_8999486646773331_9156462433067430934_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=n7ORys89q70Q7kNvgFZ7VNC&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYAqUNlpFR_M0Z34DUV5AXx81um2UVeioxq-byUmPJa2xQ&oe=67A65CAD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hey, I'm Montel, founder of All Out Junk Removal. For years, my team has been clearing out clutter & making spaces cleaner & more livable. ๐ We're deeply invested in the community & committed to responsible disposal & recycling. That's why we're offering junk removal for as low as $69! Proudly serving Boynton Beach, Pompano Beach, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach & the surrounding areas! Schedule your free estimate. Let's talk about clearing out your clutter! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679747 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567645 | 1745816685 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Quote: Starting at $59 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474060166_1330236698109906_7085573860794928411_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wn24fOUoqqgQ7kNvgGpahnX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYAJbj_EhlWJrblONvgocYbCJuNkjBKKt5b0UpuwAH9ovQ&oe=67A652FF | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679750 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/29/25, 8:36 PM | 1738567645 | 1745976973 | 2451 | Get quote | VIDEO | Handyman Services: Starting at $39 | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474529842_1749134755934777_2183030671878208977_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8MmnipU4Np4Q7kNvgFAGUXR&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYCqsK7TPRGEAaZJzE2ijnah5gHmTD5nXAyWXCxvO-ETGQ&oe=67A64246 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Hi, I'm Libien, founder of LB Handyman. โ๏ธ Do you have a nagging DIY project that you just can't finish? Leave it to us! For the past 20 years, our family & team have built this company through quality work, customer service & community involvement. ๐ก Proudly local, we're passionate about providing home improvement to our community. That's why we're offering our services for as low as $39. Fill out the form to get a free instant quote & allow us to earn your business. Serving Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Brandon, Largo & Surrounding Areas! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679600 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/3/25, 12:05 PM | 1738567629 | 1748970316 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/61215322-fb_contact-enad50_2-250126-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=233925549638247&exdata=FC3EB673E6B15A84C5075C7489764E4002296EC5D260F4D9 | 1.1646967472085E+14 | Fun Novel | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475061249_619776307667904_3748646918456080444_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Zt-GSmoIuiQQ7kNvgFnRMhv&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYD6LMMmLOU04eEsakcFOEE2SdvLZOMgaP2nbY7ZpW0l3A&oe=67A62AF8 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Ever since my father passed away, Richard had taken on a brotherly role in my life, but he often disapproved of my closeness with other guys. Every time I found a boyfriend, Richard scared them off. I complained to my friend, "My brother is stricter than my mom!" Sandra handed me a bag of chips and thought for a moment. "Could it be that Richard likes you? You guys aren't even related by blood." Since then, I deliberately distanced myself from him, but during the New Year, he suddenly brought home a girl. "Tricia, call her sister-in-law." ===== Richard was only a year older than me, but he had always used his role as an older brother to control me. When I was younger, he'd scold me for skipping classes. As I grew older and started dating, he still interfered. One time, my friend joked, "Maybe Richard likes you? You guys aren't even related by blood." Since then, I had tried to keep my distance. But during the holidays, he suddenly brought a girl home. "Tricia, this is my girlfriend. Say 'Hi'." That night, I locked myself in my room and cried uncontrollably. He pulled me out from under the covers and gently wiped away my tears. "You could find a boyfriend to annoy me, but I couldn't do the same to you?" Lately, luck hadn't been on my side. Every time I found a boyfriend, Richard scared them off. I complained to my friend, "My brother is stricter than my mom!" Sandra handed me a bag of chips and thought for a moment. "Could it be that Richard likes you? You guys aren't even related by blood." It was true. My dad and his dad had been old friends, and ever since my dad passed away, his family had been taking care of us. My mother had always told me to treat Richard like a real brother. Even though we weren't related by blood, he was more responsible than any real brother. Back in school, he would watch me do my homework every day and even lecture me if I skipped class. He was only a year older than me, but he had always acted like an adult. Whenever I did something wrong, he'd scold me faster than my mom. "Tricia, that's not polite. Don't do that." "Tricia, don't talk badly about people behind their backs." The thought that he might like me sent chills down my spine. "Don't say that! You're going to give me nightmares!" After leaving Sandra's house, her words kept echoing in my head, as if they had put a spell on me. That night, I dreamed that Richard cornered me at the stairwell, gripping my chin and ki*sing me forcefully. "Who said you could get a boyfriend?" I woke up in a cold sweat, terrified, and immediately blocked his number. Thankfully, I was about to start my internship and wouldn't be home much longer. When I opened the door the next morning, Richard just happened to be walking by. Instinctively, I stepped back and slammed the door shut. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw his cold, piercing stare. It felt like a blade cutting right through me. Later that evening, we went to his apartment for dinner. In front of everyone, he asked why I had blocked his number. I stammered, unable to come up with a reason, and had no choice but to unblock him. "I must've clicked the wrong button..." Trying to appease him, I offered him a piece of chicken with a flattering smile. "Richard, you look so thin! You should eat more meat." But something I said must've annoyed him because he even moved his plate farther away. "No need." I had found my internship on my own, even though Richard strongly opposed it and insisted I join his company. But this time, I stood my ground and firmly refused. I was too afraid that if we spent too much time together, something would happen. The apartment we were living in had been rented by Richard, thinking I'd work at his company and we'd commute together. But after starting my job, I found a new place to avoid seeing him as much as possible. My mother would text me every day, asking what I wanted to eat. She'd have the servant cook it and then deliver it to me. I'd give her a whole list of dishes, but Richard was always the one who showed up at my door. I almost slammed it shut again. But when I saw the angry look in his eyes, I stopped myself. I forced a smile and took the food container from him. "Richard, I've missed you." He ignored me, walking around the apartment to inspect the place. "Tricia, I send you so much money every month, and this is where you live? Where's all the money gone?" I hadn't touched a cent of the money he gave me. I didn't want to owe him or his family too much. But I didn't dare tell him that. He'd just accuse me of treating him like a stranger. Honestly, my mother gave me plenty of money every month too, but I had a habit of splurging on my favorite celebrities, so I had to cut costs elsewhere. "I'm investing. High returns, you know." Being a fan was an investment, especially for a toptier star like Lanny--his merch was incredibly popular. Once I got him out of my apartment, I finally breathed a sigh of relief. I swore I'd never overindulge again! Starting my new job, I often joined my colleagues for meals to fit in better. Eventually, I ran out of money and had to call my mother for help. She transferred $50, 000 to me but gave me a strict warning. "If you waste this money on a man again, I'm cutting you off." Chapter 2 Richard's Furious Because I Spent Money On Another Guy Her voice was so loud that my colleagues started giving me strange looks. I was exasperated. I had explained to her more than once that being a fan just meant liking a celebrity and spending some money on their endorsements. But my mom never listened and kept scolding me. "Spending money on men is pointless! You should be the one letting them spend money on you, got it?" Just as I was about to argue with her again, I heard a familiar voice on the other end of the phone. "Mrs. Reynolds, has Tricia gotten a boyfriend?" Why was Richard at my home? Startled, I immediately hung up the phone. The restaurant we picked was pretty popular, and we had to wait over an hour for a table. While we were waiting, a crowd suddenly started gathering. I glanced over and saw Lanny trying to make his way through the mob. Well, no wonder the place was packed--it's a hotspot for celebrities, and fans love to flock to places like this. Lanny saw me and headed my way, with a swarm of fans trailing behind him. It was a little intimidating. Wearing sunglasses, he looked cool, but in reality, he was a total goofball. "Tricia, you're here at my restaurant? Aren't you worried Richard will get angry?" Back in high school, Lanny and I were in the same class. He was great at math, and Sandra and I once went to his house to do homework. He casually put his arm around my shoulder, like we were just buddies, and neither of us thought much of it. But when Richard found out, he beat Lanny up. Ever since then, the two couldn't stand each other. I sighed helplessly. "If I'd known this was your restaurant, I wouldn't have come." I was a fan of Lanny--I went to his concerts and bought his endorsements, but I rarely paid attention to his personal life. One time, he recognized me from the stage and said he'd just give me a ticket next time, but I turned him down. Being a fan meant spending my own money; otherwise, it was not called being a fan, it was just being friends. Lanny handed me a membership card, saying I could eat at his restaurant for free from now on. I took it, thinking that if my mom ever really cut off my funds, at least I'd have a place to get a free meal. After dinner, I got home and saw Richard standing outside my door. I instinctively tried to retreat, but he was quick and called out to me. "Tricia, come here." For some reason, I always felt guilty around Richard. All I ever wanted to do was run away. "Richard, why are you here? Have you eaten yet?" He sneered, and despite it being hot, I felt a chill down my spine. "If I didn't show up, how would I know you're out here spending time with some guy?" I opened the door and explained that it was all just a misunderstanding. But he wasn't having it. He kept pressing, demanding to know who the guy was. I refused to tell him, thinking if he found out I'd spent money on Lanny, he'd beat him heavily. Then he gave me an ultimatum. "A kept man can't make you happy. Break up with him immediately." As I stood up, the card Lanny gave me fell to the floor. I quickly bent down to pick it up, but Richard was faster. He stared at me, eyes full of rage. "You don't even have money for yourself, and you're out here paying for his meals?" I was speechless as he stormed out of the apartment. Two hours later, Laurence, Richard's assistant, called me, practically in tears. "Tricia, what did you do to upset Mr. Stewart this time? I had just finished getting ready for bed when he called me back to the office to revise the proposal. I can't be on call 24/7!" I often visited Richard at his office, so I had gotten close with his secretaries and assistants. Since starting my internship, I knew all too well the pain of being forced to work overtime. Besides, they always gave me useful information--I couldn't just leave them hanging. I called Richard, and he picked up on the third ring, clearly still furious. I was trying to think of a way to coax him without making it obvious, but he was impatient. "Say something." My mind raced. Flattery never failed. "Richard, I heard you're still working overtime? You work so hard! With you in charge, the company is sure to thrive!" He didn't seem impressed. "If I didn't work my butt off, where would you get the money to spoil some guy?" Seeing that talking wouldn't help, I bought some snacks and headed to his office. When I arrived, the lights were still on, even though it was already ten o'clock. The tension in the air was palpable. Before I even reached the conference room, I could already hear Richard's angry voice inside. Chapter 3 I Thought Richard Liked Me, But He Brought Home A Girlfriend "Did I hire you to sit around gossiping all day?" "What kind of proposal is this? Is this your first day on the job? Take it back and redo it." I knocked on the door but didn't wait for a reply before entering. Everyone inside looked at me as if I were their savior, and I could see the gratitude in their eyes. Richard was caught off guard for a moment--he hadn't expected me to show up. I cleared my throat, walked up to him, and set the food down. "Richard, you should eat something. Mrs. Stewart said you haven't had dinner." He didn't move at first, so I grabbed his arm and guided him toward his office. As I closed the door behind us, I gave the others an "OK" signal. Richard's expression softened a bit, but he still looked like he wasn't in the mood to talk. I brought him a bowl of noodles, and he didn't even leave a single bite of meat. He must've been starving. "Richard, you need to take care of yourself. Work will never end. If you keep this up, your parents will be worried sick." He looked into my eyes, and I saw a mix of emotions--too many for me to make sense of. "And what about you?" I started tidying up the takeout container, avoiding his gaze. "Of course, I'm worried too. Why else would I come looking for you in the middle of the night?" My attempt to coax him worked. He picked up his jacket, slung it over his arm, and got ready to leave. "I'll take you home. It's not safe for you to walk alone at night." In the car, I avoided his eyes, pretending to look out the window at the passing scenery. For several days, I didn't contact Richard. My mom thought we were fighting and kept urging me not to be stubborn. "Don't be so willful. Richard is busy with work, and he still makes time to take care of you." I didn't know how to explain it to her, so I just stayed silent. As work got busier, I pushed the matter to the back of my mind. We spoke occasionally, but only about work-related things. Eventually, he became distant with me. I sighed with relief, but at the same time, I felt an odd emptiness inside. Time flew by, and before I knew it, Christmas was approaching. The company gave us a holiday starting three days before Christmas. Coincidentally, Lanny was holding a concert in Alodon, so I flew over to catch it and even took a photo with him afterward. Lanny said we hadn't taken a picture together in years and asked me to send him one. I did, and moments later, I saw him post it on Facebook. "Great concert! Thanks to all the friends who came from far and wide." When I returned to Pheldence, it was Christmas Eve. For some reason, I couldn't shake this feeling of unease. Every year, our families took turns hosting the family dinner, and this year it was at Richard's house. As soon as I walked in, I heard laughter coming from the living room. I headed toward the sound and saw a gentle, elegant girl sitting on the couch. She had long hair, was dressed in a luxury coat, and carried a limited-edition handbag. Clearly, she was the same type of person as Richard. The most important thing was that she was sitting next to him, with her hand linked through his arm. Richard didn't even look at me. His attention was completely on her. I felt an inexplicable surge of frustration and placed my things on the coffee table a bit too forcefully. My mom shot me a sharp look. "Tricia, can you show some manners? You just walked in, and you're already giving attitude." Richard smiled--barely, but I noticed it. Sitting across from them, their closeness felt glaringly obvious. "So, what should I call you?" I asked the girl. For the first time since I arrived, Richard actually looked at me. "Tricia, this is my girlfriend. Say 'Hi'." I didn't know what to say. Suddenly, I understood where that feeling of unease had been coming from. Richard was in a relationship, and I was the one who felt the most hurt. I quickly greeted her, but despite the feast in front of me, everything tasted bland and unappetizing. Once I got home, I rushed to my room, buried myself under the covers, and let the tears flow freely. I didn't know how much time had passed when I suddenly heard the door creak open. I hastily wiped away my tears, pretending to be asleep. Someone walked slowly to my bedside. I could feel his gaze on me as he crouched down. He pulled at my blanket, and though I clung to it, I couldn't match his strength. I opened my eyes to see Richard standing by my bed with a faint smile. "Tricia, why are you crying just because I'm in a relationship?" ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &3& | Fun Novel | 1341 | https://www.facebook.com/100090881055588/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679756 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/12/25, 10:48 PM | 1738567645 | 1749786514 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Free Quote | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474551555_590073903803987_5134215720153981384_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mh8VoirrhZAQ7kNvgEajI4E&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYDlLsq_o7KxT1zz8VGc0-puZ8a1OrrCiGdxeajgHSC3Zw&oe=67A642FD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679622 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/3/25, 12:09 PM | 1738567631 | 1748970543 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Quote on Your New Fence! | http://fb.me/ | 4.4507570869457E+14 | VooltPro Certified Contractors | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473191178_519465134487536_4562821150263606991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NzJw8znuIvQQ7kNvgHcbG09&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYBQKw0DH6AxofOVP_cQAhcknydrnDUZqr_jCfUbtfl78w&oe=67A64E5A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | VooltPro Certified Contractors | 45 | https://www.facebook.com/61567454793871/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679688 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567636 | 1745816686 | 2451 | kosstom.com | Shop Now | CAROUSEL | Wear Art, Not Just a Hat | A masterpiece on your head. | https://kosstom.com/en-us/products/eugenia-in-black?_pos=2&_sid=431d41c28&_ss=r&variant=42330379223212_pos=2&_sid=431d41c28&_ss=r&variant=42331097727148 | 1.0470698854553E+14 | Kosstom | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475645899_1292885961983454_672095985673590361_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JhbM_wjZaewQ7kNvgG8M3RP&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYBA2pb0oyPgHPPRe4TjSbPTOKdaEAOxrHTsDmYVI-j1ow&oe=67A64CD0 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | A masterpiece on your head. | Kosstom | 62 | https://www.facebook.com/kosstomhat/ | 0 | SHOP_NOW | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679718 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/4/25, 12:22 PM | 1738567643 | 1749057727 | 2451 | medicalspapromos.com | Learn more | IMAGE | ๐ชTransform Your Face & Body with Our Rejuvenation Treatments | Free Medical Aesthetics Consultation | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/nosweat-fort-wayne-04-optin | 4.8044227515946E+14 | NoSweat Fort Wayne IN | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474224059_897566655784202_2756019234735454347_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hGkdlic8sDAQ7kNvgGALDqh&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYBpccG1yvEJpeKzhL9sSLV-YE60SZBp8mCRwcLLanayzA&oe=67A64FB1 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ฃ ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐๐ค๐ง๐ฉ ๐๐๐ฎ๐ฃ๐ & ๐๐ช๐ง๐ง๐ค๐ช๐ฃ๐๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ผ๐ง๐๐๐จ! ๐ Say goodbye to saggy skin and hello to a more youthful look! ๐ โ Our personalized treatments can lift, tighten, and enhance the face and body, all while being safe and non-invasive! ๐โโ๏ธ ๐ฐ For a limited time only, claim a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards our most popular ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป treatment packages, including: ๐ ๐ฆ๐ธ๐ถ๐ป ๐ง๐ถ๐ด๐ต๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Non-surgical treatments that firm and tighten excess skin caused by aging or weight loss on the face and body! ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Reduce stubborn fat without the risks and downtime of surgery! ๐ ๐ฅ๐ ๐ฆ๐ธ๐ถ๐ป ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐๐๐ฟ๐ณ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Counteracts years of sun damage, acne scarring, stretch marks and large pores as it visibly removes fine lines! Safe for all skin tones, treats all areas with minimal downtime! ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ฎ๐ถ๐ฟ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐บ๐ผ๐๐ฎ๐น ($๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Gently & permanently reduce or remove hair from any area of the body! ๐ ๐๐บ๐๐ฒ๐น๐น๐ฎ ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): First device of its kind that is FDA-cleared to strengthen the pelvic floor, improve bladder control & enhance intimacy for both men and women! ๐ฉโโ๏ธ Here at ๐ก๐ผ๐ฆ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ ๐ช๐ฎ๐๐ป๐ฒ Our experienced team works to create a treatment plan tailored to each individual's unique needs and budget. Don't wait!! Request a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ now and take the first step towards a more confident you! ๐ฏ Click [LEARN MORE] to claim the offer! ๐ | NoSweat Fort Wayne IN | 19 | https://www.facebook.com/61571194635654/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679705 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567637 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | VIDEO | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/67179322-fb_contact-enj83_6-0110-c3-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1721275375067958&exdata=303AD0586C0A3DED306C4F7109416154CB4C5F9E7B9FB5D4 | 4.3210510665256E+14 | Fragrant Fiction | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475031489_1349156846267302_6630509588118479390_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9o41cFlNrTAQ7kNvgHQGvZ9&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYBJuoSFV_D_mfR7ZcfBJ6cxHOa0cQJvTCCvxX-00jjQww&oe=67A63D91 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Rumors claimed she was an uneducated, hot-tempered bumpkin. She sneered and revealed her true identity as a renowned designer, gaming pro, celebrated artist, and business tycoon, leaving everyone stunned! ===== "We're here to escort you home, Miss Morgan." "Your parents have been tirelessly searching for you over the years. Upon discovering your whereabouts, they promptly dispatched us to ensure your return." Fernanda Morgan surveyed the men in crisply tailored suits who stood before her, he appeared to be a butler. "Moreover, the Harper family is keenly anticipating your return. You are to be engaged to Mr. Harper once you return!" "Alright then. Let's go," Fernanda agreed with a slight nod. She collected her already-packed belongings and stepped into the vehicle. The journey from the small town of Zhota to Esaham was a long one, spanning at least two days by car. As dusk enveloped the sky, they pulled into another small town. The butler located a modestly appealing motel and proposed they stay overnight. Fernanda's accommodation was at the far end of the second-floor hallway, Room 201--arguably the best room available. The butler and the rest of their group opted to stay on the lower floor. The night was unusually warm and dry, rendering the room's aging air conditioner useless. Fernanda opened the window to invite a cool breeze, causing the curtains to dance gently in the evening air. Fresh from her shower, she dimmed the lights and crawled into bed for the night. Drifting into a light sleep, she was jolted awake by a disturbance outside. A subsequent noise at the window snapped her to full alert. As she bolted upright, a shadowy figure burst through, launching itself onto her bed. The freezing touch of a bl*de hovered at her neck as a low, threatening voice growled, "Don't you dare move." Immobile, Fernanda's body clenched in fear. The faint, iron tang of bl**d lingered on the man's sleeve--a grim reminder of his dangerousness. This unmistakable hint solidified the fact: this man was no one to mess with. Outside, the commotion intensified. Shortly after, a forceful knock resonated at the door. A coarse voice demanded, "Is anyone there? Open up now!" As the voice still echoed, the kn*fe at Fernanda's neck dug in slightly deeper. The man's voice dripped with malice as he warned, "Get rid of them, or you're as good as dead." His right arm ensnared her waist, his left hand unwavering with the kn*fe at her throat. Through his firm grip and calculated movements, Fernanda realized he was deadly serious. Cornered, she knew she had to play along for the time being. "Sure." With a soft, steady voice, Fernanda reassured him. "It'll all be okay." With no answer from inside, the outsiders used a master key to unlock the door and stormed in. At the sound, the man jerked Fernanda's baggy T-shirt, pulling her down onto his lap and encircling her with his arm, forcing her to straddle him as he shifted position. Right then, the door flung open, and a stark beam of flashlight flooded the room. Fernanda let out a panicked scream, quickly bending over the man to obscure him from view. "Sweetheart, what the hell is this place? How could anyone have the audacity to barge in like that?" Acting as though she was terrified, Fernanda held onto the man, her grip firm and desperate. Her voice, usually sweet and enticing, now carried an edge of annoyance mingled with a breathless charm that was utterly captivating. Suddenly, Fernanda felt the man beneath her tense up. Seconds later, he encircled her with his arm and expertly flipped over, drawing the blanket over both their bodies. As the blanket slid, its soft whispers merged with the steady rhythm of their breaths, painting a scene of understated sensuality. Faces flushed with embarrassment, the group at the door stood stiffly, unprepared for the private display before them. Nonetheless, the couple inside the room showed no signs of halting their intimate exchange. The motel's security guard chuckled uncomfortably, "Looks like they're pretty busy... Maybe we ought to leave, huh?" One of the men brushed past the guard and entered the room with a purposeful stride. Fernanda's heartbeat skyrocketed as she heard the footsteps drawing near. Could they actually be contemplating unveiling them? A chilling bl*de pressed against her side, its pointed tip grazing her skin, sending a shiver through her already tense body. The footsteps halted next to the bed, and with a surge of courage, Fernanda leaned in closer to the man beneath her. Pulled back gently, the blanket gave way to the flashlight's piercing light, exposing a glimpse of her delicate, b*re back. In the softness of the bed, their movements continued unabated. Fernanda's lips met his in a fervent kiss, her hair cascading down to obscure his face, while his hand gently caressed her side. The subdued m**ns that slipped from their lips lent the scene an air of genuine intimacy. Abruptly, a voice erupted from beyond the room, piercing the tranquility. "Boss! Something's going down out on the street!" Instantly, the man at the bedside sprang to his feet and vanished through the door. With the door slamming behind him, Fernanda disentangled herself and slipped from the bed. Moonlight seeped through a crack in the curtains, casting delicate shadows across the room. The man watched as Fernanda's slender figure was silhouetted against the pale light. Memories of earlier washed over him; his fingers traced her skin, so smooth and velvety. She had gripped his arms, her delicate skin pressing softly against his. Her hair had brushed his face, each strand silky, carrying a subtle fragrance. Her voice had been a soft melody, soothing to his ears. This woman was serene and astute. Amid the intrusion, rather than succumb to panic, she had pressed her lips to his, a kiss so convincing it had deceived the pursuers. Her technique was rather clumsy, only pressing her lips against his without any other movement--evidently her first kiss. Breaking the ensuing quiet, the man's voice softened from its usual sternness to a rasp tinged with all**re. "Was that your first kiss?" Chapter 2 That's Gross With deliberate movements, Fernanda pulled out a piece of clothing from her suitcase, her voice sharp and cool. "This is none of your concern. I think it's time for you to leave." All she desired at that moment was to hasten the man's departure. Barely a moment before, when he had embraced her, his fingers had brushed against her back, lingering just a moment too long. The calluses on his fingertips were coarse, betraying more wear than most. His adeptness with a knife and his swift reflexes hinted at a background that was far from ordinary. Cutting off the thought immediately, Fernanda dismissed any curiosity about his background. From below, the blare of a car horn shattered the silence. The man stood up smoothly. During their earlier intimacy, he had loosened his shirt, though his trousers remained crisply in place. He buttoned his shirt as he approached the window and casually tossed something to Fernanda. "My apologies for any discomfort caused earlier. Consider this your compensation," he said with a nod. With the graceful precision of a panther, he sprang out of the window. Fernanda approached the window, peering out into the night where, under the faint illumination of the streetlights, she observed him scale the wall effortlessly. He navigated the ledges until he merged with the shadows. She stooped to retrieve the object he had left--a sleek black card. The night's disruptions had been met with suitable compensation--a fair recompense. Fernanda pocketed the card and drew the curtains closed. The following morning, the butler approached Fernanda with a look of concern etched across his face. "Miss Morgan, I hope you managed to rest last night. There was an inspection for a burglary, which stirred quite the disturbance." She shrugged casually and muttered, "It was fine." As they drove, the butler stole glances at Fernanda through the rearview mirror. Reclined in her seat, she gazed out the window, her elegant profile cast in contemplative silence. He mused quietly to himself that she did not embody the typical country-raised youth. Her calm sophistication and graceful demeanor set her apart, enhancing her natural charm and making her an effortlessly endearing presence. After two days of travel, Fernanda stepped into the bustling streets of Esaham. The city was a teeming metropolis, alive with vibrant streets and a relentless stream of traffic. Shortly after 8 a.m., a stretch Lincoln limousine glided into the upscale estate of Dawn Villas, coming to a halt in front of a majestic three-story white villa. Stepping gracefully from the limousine, Fernanda let her eyes wander over the grandeur of the building before her. The villa, both opulent and imposing, was a testament to vast wealth. Her lips curled into a faint, almost mocking smile as she gave it a scrutinizing glance. This was her father Robert Morgan's residence. From humble beginnings, he had climbed to wealth and status with her late mother's support. After amassing his fortune, Robert had coldly cast aside her mother, choosing to revel in a relationship with his mistress. That woman--Michelle Morgan--had contributed nothing to his success, yet she now sat smugly in the seat Fernanda's mother had rightfully earned. She basked in the luxuries and respect that were never hers to claim. Worse still, Michelle had dared to flaunt her victory, parading her stolen life before Fernanda's grieving mother, a cruelty that had ultimately led to Fernanda's mother's untimely death. To the world, Michelle was seen as Robert's second wife, a symbol of grace and charm. Michelle even had the audacity to claim she was Fernanda's real mother. But Fernanda knew better. Behind the polished veneer lay the truth, raw and unforgiving. Fernanda's dark eyes momentarily hardened, a flicker of steely determination glinting within them. Her mother was no longer here to seek justice, but Fernanda vowed she would deliver it on her behalf. Just then, the villa's grand door swung open, revealing the pair responsible for the upheaval in her life. Robert stood tall and pristine, the sharp lines of his tailored suit accentuating his stature. His gold-rimmed glasses reflected the warm light, adding an air of calculated sophistication. At his side was Michelle, the very picture of elegance. Her fitted dress clung perfectly to her poised figure, exuding refinement and composure. "Fernanda, you've come back." Robert greeted warmly, a smile playing on his lips as he waved her over. "Come in." Fernanda's eyes darted downward, concealing the storm of emotions swirling within her. With a tentative step, she moved closer. Robert, with an arm encircling Michelle's waist, introduced her with a gesture. "Fernanda, this is your mother." With a casual wave toward the living room, he remarked, "And that's Erika, your sister." On the couch, Erika Morgan was engaged with the television, only looking up when Fernanda approached. Her eyes narrowed judgmentally at Fernanda's plain dress, her face contorting into a sneer. With an exaggerated eye-roll and a sarcastic tone, Erika muttered, "That country bumpkin? Dad, she's no sister of mine." Michelle approached Fernanda with a warm smile, linking her arm with Fernanda's. "Oh, Fernanda, Erika's just teasing. Pay her no mind. I've prepared breakfast for you. You must be starving. Let's have something to eat." Silently, Fernanda slipped her arm free and strode with determined steps into the dining room. Michelle paused, her smile faltering as a shadow of confusion crossed her face. She turned to Robert, her voice tinged with concern. "Robert, what's gotten into her?" He sighed, his voice a blend of empathy and resignation, "Fernanda was raised in the countryside. She's a bit unrefined, that's all. It's nothing against you, Michelle." Michelle nodded slowly, a soft smile reclaiming her features. "No worries," she murmured, her resolve firming. "I'll guide her as she settles in, teach her the essentials of elegance, and shape her into a poised young woman." Robert gave a supportive pat on her back, his expression one of appreciative assurance. In the dining room, Michelle seated herself next to Fernanda. "Fernanda, you must try this beef," she insisted, placing a tender slice onto Fernanda's plate. "It's Erika's favorite." Fernanda responded by promptly lifting the beef from her plate and dropping it into an empty plate with a clear look of disgust. "That's gross," she stated flatly, her voice void of any warmth. Chapter 3 How Could You Lie? The moment those words left Fernanda's lips, the entire table came to a standstill, their expressions a mix of shock and disbelief. Erika, her patience fraying, brought her hand down hard on the table and demanded, "Country bumpkin, what are you even saying? My mom was kind enough to offer you this beef, and you have the nerve to be rude about it?" Fernanda met their astonished looks with a mask of feigned innocence. "I was clearly referring to the beef," she said with a deliberate pause. "It's raw and quite frankly, it looks unappetizing. What else could I possibly mean?" "You..." Erika's retort faltered, caught in her throat. Admitting that she thought Fernanda was insulting Michelle was out of the question. With a slow, calculated blink, Fernanda went on, "Unless, perhaps, you think there's something even more gross on this table than the raw beef?" At this, Erika's face registered sheer astonishment, and for a split second, her voice seemed to have deserted her entirely. Not a single word could she muster. It was Michelle who broke the awkward silence, interjecting smoothly, "Fernanda, the dish you're referring to is called beef tartare. It's a renowned delicacy made from top-notch beef and a pasteurized egg, typically found in high-end dining establishments. Perhaps it's something you've not had the opportunity to try before." Her voice subtly implied that Fernanda's simpler past might not have included such refined culinary experiences. Fernanda allowed a mischievous smirk to play at the corners of her lips and replied, "Our ancestors honed an array of sophisticated recipes and techniques. They certainly didn't refine these culinary arts for us to regress to consuming raw meat as if we were lost in the wild." Michelle's expression briefly betrayed a touch of discomfort, yet she managed to sustain a polite smile, nodding her agreement somewhat rigidly. "You bring up a valid point, I'll give you that." "I agree. I'm not fond of beef tartare either," Robert added with a nod, his gaze settling on Fernanda with evident pride. "I've always preferred classic tastes myself. It seems Fernanda has inherited that from me." Fernanda offered a subdued smile, delicately wiping her fork on a napkin after attempting the beef tartare, then resumed eating with a composed demeanor, seemingly unaffected by Erika's glaring resentment. Michelle suddenly ventured a soft query. "Fernanda, which university are you attending these days? Erika is at Luminary University, one of the top schools in the country. What about you?" At this, Erika's face morphed into a self-satisfied grin. Robert's tone grew cooler as he intervened on Fernanda's behalf. "I've spoken to a few contacts back in Fernanda's hometown. Currently, she isn't enrolled in any university." Michelle's eyes went wide, her voice cutting through the silence as she blurted, "What did you just say? Fernanda isn't attending any university? That simply cannot be! What will happen when the Harpers find out? Mrs. Harper had just mentioned a few days ago that they were planning a grand welcome party for Fernanda upon her return. If they learn she's not enrolled anywhere, it could be disastrous." Robert intervened, his tone laced with irritation, cutting through Michelle's rising panic. "Enough. I will take care of Fernanda's education myself." From the corner, Erika couldn't suppress a snicker. Imagining Fernanda managing to sneak into some low-ranked school through connections was downright amusing to her. The Harper family, celebrating the arrival of what Erika considered a rural nobody, was an absurd thought. Fernanda's crude and graceless demeanor would certainly earn their disapproval the moment they saw her. Erika found Bobby Harper quite charming, but his family's insistence on honoring their promise to engage him to Fernanda and pushing Robert to reintegrate Fernanda into their circles seemed ridiculously foolish to her. She was convinced that the Harper family would never develop an affinity for someone as lacking in education as Fernanda. The mood around the table grew tense as they discussed Fernanda's academic prospects. Amidst the awkward silence, Fernanda herself reached for a napkin, dabbing at her lips gracefully. "I have already registered to take the entrance exam for Esaham University," she announced, her voice steady and clear. "Assuming all goes well, I plan to attend there in the near future." Erika was caught off guard and, for a moment, was speechless before she burst into unrestrained laughter. The idea that Esaham University, the most prestigious in the nation where seats were as coveted as gold, would allow Fernanda to take the entrance exam was laughable. Clearly, this was a lie. Robert's demeanor hardened, his eyes narrowing with a frosty glare. He furrowed his brow in disapproval and said sternly, "Fernanda, how could you lie about being granted the opportunity to take the entrance exam for Esaham University? Was lying the only lesson you picked up in your little hometown?" "Honey, calm down," Michelle interjected quickly. "Fernanda was only trying to impress you." Turning to Fernanda with a soft, maternal expression, Michelle remarked in a soothing tone, "There's no shame in skipping college, Fernanda. You don't have to pretend or feel lesser because of it. We're family here, and we don't judge you on such matters." Her words, though gentle, were saturated with disbelief, assuming Fernanda was fabricating her story. Fernanda, without a word of defense, simply pulled out her smartphone. After a few taps, she pushed it across the table towards the center. Everyone leaned in to see the display. Erika's laughter stopped abruptly as she stared at the screen. Displayed prominently was Fernanda's Esaham University entrance exam admission ticket, complete with her photo and name in bold. Snatching the phone, Erika's eyes grew wide as she inspected it repeatedly. Her anger boiling over, she tossed it away and exclaimed, "This can't be real! You edited this, didn't you?" Chapter 4 This Girl Is Something Else "This isn't a photo--it's an online document," Fernanda stated in an even tone, her voice steady and clear. "Notice the Esaham University web address at the top?" Erika was at a loss for words. Her complexion lost its color as silence enveloped her. Entry to Esaham University was notoriously difficult, achievable only through the rigorous standardized exam or by excelling in the university's specialized admission test. This test was reserved for the truly outstanding, drawing candidates from diverse disciplines and making the chance to compete a rare gem. How did Fernanda manage to secure a spot to attend the admission test? Suddenly, Robert's hand was on Fernanda's phone, his eyes scanning the text again and again. Any annoyance he felt quickly dissipated, replaced by bubbling excitement. A rich, joyful laughter escaped him as he declared, "Brilliant, Fernanda! Absolutely brilliant!" The way Fernanda managed to secure such an incredible opportunity didn't concern him. What mattered most to him was the overwhelming pride he felt, knowing she had this chance to take the exam. With a stiff smile and a voice laced with tension, Michelle replied, "Yes, well done." "What's so great about that?" Erika scoffed, her voice dripping with disdain. "It's not as if she's actually going to pass." "But it's certainly better than not being qualified to try at all, right?" Fernanda retorted smoothly. Color rushed to Erika's cheeks, her anger palpable. She slammed her fork down, the clatter echoing sharply. "I've had enough!" she declared vehemently, before storming off in a huff. After dinner, Robert and Michelle walked Fernanda to her cozy and thoughtfully prepared room. The room was airy and uncluttered, resonating with Fernanda's love for understated elegance. "Across the hall is your sister's room," Michelle explained, her voice carrying a warm undertone. "Next to yours is your elder brother's. He's often caught up with work commitments and rarely at home. Your younger brother, who's currently at a summer camp overseas, has his room beside Erika's." She continued, a smile softening her features, "If there's anything you need to make your stay more comfortable, please don't hesitate to tell me, dear." Robert watched Michelle with a look of quiet approval. "Thank you," Fernanda murmured, her eyes downcast as she spoke. "I think I'll take a shower now." At that, Robert and Michelle excused themselves, leaving Fernanda to her privacy. As she stepped under the spray, cool water washed over her, drenching her face and lending a luminous sheen to her eyes. They sparkled against the backdrop of water droplets on her lashes, enhancing the serene yet frosty allure of her features. Once out of the shower, Fernanda blow-dried her hair until it was just damp. As Fernanda from the bathroom, she dug through the suitcase and found a photo of Hiram Hammond. The photo was a solemn memorial portrait of Hiram. Though not bound to her by blood, he had nurtured her with unwavering care and affection. To Fernanda, he was her entire world, her only family. That cherished photo, a tribute to his memory, was something she couldn't afford to lose. Gazing at the kind, gentle face in the photo, Fernanda was enveloped by a surge of affection. With gentle hands, she cleaned the photograph and lovingly placed it on a side table in the room. Within the next two days, the villa had welcomed two additional guests--Michelle's nephew and niece. The man exhibited an unseemly l**tfulness, with his gaze persistently fixed on Fernanda whenever he could manage. Meanwhile, the woman had aligned herself with Erika, openly manifesting her contempt and animosity toward Fernanda through both overt and subtle jabs. Disenchanted by their presence, Fernanda chose to distance herself from the villa's stifling atmosphere. As the sun dawdled on the brink of the horizon, the evening air, warm yet prickled with tension, brushed against her. Seeking a brief escape, Fernanda wandered to a convenience store and picked up a can of cold beer. Positioned against a lamppost, she deftly popped open the can single-handedly. The refreshing chill of the beer soothed her throat as she drank. A slight tilt of her head caused the collar of her shirt to shift delicately, exposing the elegant contour of her collarbone. With an air of sophistication, her neck arched gracefully, like someone relishing a glass of champagne in an exclusive bar. Having savored the last drop, Fernanda tossed the can with a casual flick of her wrist, watching it arc smoothly into the bin with a satisfying clink. Not far off, someone hidden in the dim interior of a black sedan watched intently. Bobby, palpably impressed, turned to his companion and remarked with a mix of awe and admiration, "Cristian, this girl is something else!" Chapter 5 Attacked Cristian Reed, who was sprawling in the backseat, remained silent, his eyes firmly shut. "Wow, the girl is stunning! Check out those legs--so beautiful and flawless! Did you see her toss that can, Cristian? She's got skills that could rival yours!" Bobby's incessant babble finally pierced Cristian's reserve. With a sigh, Cristian's eyes fluttered open. Just then, the headlights from an approaching vehicle swept across his face, accentuating its angular contours and highlighting a small mole beneath his eye. Drawing out his words, Cristian replied with a lazy drawl, his voice a deep, soothing rumble laced with a trace of exhaustion, "Aren't you getting engaged soon? Isn't the eldest Morgan daughter meant to be yours?" Bobby visibly flinched at the mention, his expression contorting into one of clear distaste. "She's nothing but a stray who got lost as a child and grew up in some nowhere place. Who's to say she isn't just a goddamn ugly rural bumpkin? My friends probably see me as some unlucky fool. Cristian, you are my cousin. You should not make fun of me like they do!" Cristian merely crossed his arms, extending his long legs and settling back more comfortably without a word. The silence seemed to deepen Bobby's frustration, as if sealing his fate. Yet, as Bobby's eyes landed on the girl's striking figure under the streetlight again, his mood shifted, and a flicker of curiosity lit up his face. With a playful grin, Bobby lowered the window and leaned slightly out, his tone dripping with charm. "Hey there, gorgeous. Can I offer you a ride?" "No, thank you." Her words were crisp and frosty, cutting through the evening like a cold breeze, leaving a chill that touched both men. In the backseat, Cristian's body tensed. His eyes snapped open, his head whipping around toward the sound of the voice. That voice? It unmistakably belonged to the girl he had met in that dimly lit motel. Cristian acted with such swiftness that he seemed to blur the lines between thought and action as he swung the car door open and emerged. Fernanda mistook his approach for a mere flirtatious gesture. Without giving him another thought, she turned away and continued on her path. She had only taken a few steps when she felt a strong, unyielding grip halt her progress. She spun around, coming face-to-face with the man who had stopped her. Towering and strikingly handsome, he possessed an aura of undeniable presence. One hand was nonchalantly placed in his pocket, while the other securely grasped her arm. His piercing gaze locked with hers. "Well, if it isn't you!" Cristian muttered slowly, a hint of recognition in his voice. "Seems like we keep meeting, huh?" Fernanda's eyes flickered with surprise as she realized who he was--the man from that unforgettable night. Given that he was a dangerous fugitive, she wanted to keep her distance from him. Swiftly regaining her composure, she adopted an aloof demeanor. "I'm sorry, sir. You must be mistaken," she replied evenly. "No," Cristian responded, his voice low and steady, a slight smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "A debt of gratitude is something I never forget." His remark revealed a depth to his character. For Cristian, repaying a good deed wasn't just a courtesy--it was a principle he lived by. Meanwhile, Bobby had exited the car and now stood a short distance away, his expression one of utter bewilderment. "What's going on?" he inquired. Cristian brushed off Bobby's presence, focusing instead on holding the car door open for Fernanda with a subtle nod. Fernanda stayed rooted in place, her gaze sharp with caution. "What do you mean by that?" "I'd like to take you to dinner. Would you join me?" Cristian urged with a warm, inviting smile. It came across as a question, but Fernanda could discern from the inflection in his voice that he wasn't genuinely offering her an option to decline. Her familiarity with his nature left no room for misunderstanding. Refusing him might only provoke him to force her into the car himself. With a sigh, she gave a subdued nod. "Fine." A faint smile flickered across Cristian's face as he graciously gestured for her to enter, then smoothly took his place behind the wheel. Bobby blinked in shock, his mouth hanging open. "You've got to be kidding me, Cristian. This is incredible!" Cristian had effortlessly ensnared the alluring girl with a mere handful of words, an accomplishment Bobby found profoundly impressive. As Bobby tried the back door, he found it unexpectedly locked. "Cristian?" he inquired, a hint of confusion in his tone. Cristian commanded firmly, "Leave." Frozen in place in the brisk evening air, Bobby watched the sleek black car vanish into the shadows of the night. He was the first to spot the girl! Why had they left him behind? Inside the car, Cristian shattered the lingering silence by firing off a torrent of questions. "Are you from Esaham or Zhota?" "Zhota," she answered softly. "And your name?" "Letty Molina." "How old are you?" "Twenty-five," Fernanda replied, her voice barely above a whisper. Cristian stole a sideways glance at her, his voice laced with skepticism. "Doesn't seem like it." "Reality seldom mirrors our expectations," Fernanda replied, her tone unwavering. "Take your appearance, for instance. In that impeccable suit, you're the perfect picture of a business tycoon. Yet, you're the same fugitive I stumbled upon the other night." Cristian couldn't help but laugh, a hint of amusement in his voice. "You do have a point." Fernanda was finally no longer feigning ignorance about their past encounter. Cristian was relieved. Had she chosen to continue her charade, he had his own methods to have her drop the act. As usual, Esaham's traffic was a snarled mess. Cristian veered onto a less congested side street, hoping to evade the endless sea of cars. Breaking the silence, he suggested, "I know a cozy spot run by a Zhota native--serves excellent food. Let's head there." "Sure," she replied, her tone calm but firm. Just as Fernanda's reply hung in the air, a jarring crash echoed from behind, jolting the car forward. She was thrust back, the seatbelt gnawing into her shoulder. Cristian's gaze darted to the rearview mirror. Suddenly, a van cut sharply across their path, blocking them. On either side, vehicles converged, spilling out men brandishing grim tools, their silhouettes ominous in the dim streetlight. Without hesitation, Cristian reached into the center console, retrieving a kn*fe. "Whatever happens, keep yourself inside the car. Don't even think about stepping out," he instructed firmly, pressing her back into the seat. With a resolute nod, he went on, "I'll take care of them, and afterward, dinner's on me." Cristian wrapped up his conversation, offering Fernanda a fleeting smile that appeared untouched by the surrounding tension. Fernanda folded her arms and settled deeper into her seat, her face a mask of tranquility as she observed Cristian approach the group of armed adversaries. The scene was stark--one man facing off against a throng armed to the teeth. The odds were clearly not in his favor. Yet, as Cristian lifted his foot and dispatched two of the men to the ground with a single, silent kick, Fernanda took note of his precision and power. His technique spoke of extensive training and raw capability. The gang, incited by Cristian's defiance, rushed at him collectively. Sticks sliced through the air, each strike landing with a dense thud that echoed menace. Cristian, however, danced through the tumult with a grace that seemed almost serene. Despite their advantage in numbers, his assailants found themselves floundering to overpower him. One attacker received a blunt punch straight to the face, staggering backward and eventually collapsing against the hood of Cristian's car. As he dabbed at the bl**d dripping from his nose, the man snarled in rage. Catching sight of Fernanda inside the vehicle, a sinister idea sparked within him... ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fragrant Fiction | 55 | https://www.facebook.com/61565957015132/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679695 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567636 | 1745816686 | 2451 | kosstom.com | Shop Now | CAROUSEL | Wear Art, Not Just a Hat | A masterpiece on your head. | https://kosstom.com/en-us/products/eugenia-in-black?_pos=2&_sid=431d41c28&_ss=r&variant=42330379223212_pos=2&_sid=431d41c28&_ss=r&variant=42331097727148 | 1.0470698854553E+14 | Kosstom | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475645899_1292885961983454_672095985673590361_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JhbM_wjZaewQ7kNvgG8M3RP&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYBA2pb0oyPgHPPRe4TjSbPTOKdaEAOxrHTsDmYVI-j1ow&oe=67A64CD0 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | A masterpiece on your head. | Kosstom | 62 | https://www.facebook.com/kosstomhat/ | 0 | SHOP_NOW | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679602 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/13/25, 2:00 AM | 1738567630 | 1749798003 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/61215322-fb_contact-enad50_2-250126-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=233925549638247&exdata=FC3EB673E6B15A8491416B4BA5DD465A0E4C6598B610D1F6 | 1.1646967472085E+14 | Fun Novel | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475157408_621342091053609_4577147305596639730_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=asg4D9pOc3wQ7kNvgGVIw5B&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYCfEh6HBa-JAmYt6569OE-GTxm44pgdXY35d7uU4_eMMg&oe=67A6322C | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Ever since my father passed away, Richard had taken on a brotherly role in my life, but he often disapproved of my closeness with other guys. Every time I found a boyfriend, Richard scared them off. I complained to my friend, "My brother is stricter than my mom!" Sandra handed me a bag of chips and thought for a moment. "Could it be that Richard likes you? You guys aren't even related by blood." Since then, I deliberately distanced myself from him, but during the New Year, he suddenly brought home a girl. "Tricia, call her sister-in-law." ===== Richard was only a year older than me, but he had always used his role as an older brother to control me. When I was younger, he'd scold me for skipping classes. As I grew older and started dating, he still interfered. One time, my friend joked, "Maybe Richard likes you? You guys aren't even related by blood." Since then, I had tried to keep my distance. But during the holidays, he suddenly brought a girl home. "Tricia, this is my girlfriend. Say 'Hi'." That night, I locked myself in my room and cried uncontrollably. He pulled me out from under the covers and gently wiped away my tears. "You could find a boyfriend to annoy me, but I couldn't do the same to you?" Lately, luck hadn't been on my side. Every time I found a boyfriend, Richard scared them off. I complained to my friend, "My brother is stricter than my mom!" Sandra handed me a bag of chips and thought for a moment. "Could it be that Richard likes you? You guys aren't even related by blood." It was true. My dad and his dad had been old friends, and ever since my dad passed away, his family had been taking care of us. My mother had always told me to treat Richard like a real brother. Even though we weren't related by blood, he was more responsible than any real brother. Back in school, he would watch me do my homework every day and even lecture me if I skipped class. He was only a year older than me, but he had always acted like an adult. Whenever I did something wrong, he'd scold me faster than my mom. "Tricia, that's not polite. Don't do that." "Tricia, don't talk badly about people behind their backs." The thought that he might like me sent chills down my spine. "Don't say that! You're going to give me nightmares!" After leaving Sandra's house, her words kept echoing in my head, as if they had put a spell on me. That night, I dreamed that Richard cornered me at the stairwell, gripping my chin and ki*sing me forcefully. "Who said you could get a boyfriend?" I woke up in a cold sweat, terrified, and immediately blocked his number. Thankfully, I was about to start my internship and wouldn't be home much longer. When I opened the door the next morning, Richard just happened to be walking by. Instinctively, I stepped back and slammed the door shut. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw his cold, piercing stare. It felt like a blade cutting right through me. Later that evening, we went to his apartment for dinner. In front of everyone, he asked why I had blocked his number. I stammered, unable to come up with a reason, and had no choice but to unblock him. "I must've clicked the wrong button..." Trying to appease him, I offered him a piece of chicken with a flattering smile. "Richard, you look so thin! You should eat more meat." But something I said must've annoyed him because he even moved his plate farther away. "No need." I had found my internship on my own, even though Richard strongly opposed it and insisted I join his company. But this time, I stood my ground and firmly refused. I was too afraid that if we spent too much time together, something would happen. The apartment we were living in had been rented by Richard, thinking I'd work at his company and we'd commute together. But after starting my job, I found a new place to avoid seeing him as much as possible. My mother would text me every day, asking what I wanted to eat. She'd have the servant cook it and then deliver it to me. I'd give her a whole list of dishes, but Richard was always the one who showed up at my door. I almost slammed it shut again. But when I saw the angry look in his eyes, I stopped myself. I forced a smile and took the food container from him. "Richard, I've missed you." He ignored me, walking around the apartment to inspect the place. "Tricia, I send you so much money every month, and this is where you live? Where's all the money gone?" I hadn't touched a cent of the money he gave me. I didn't want to owe him or his family too much. But I didn't dare tell him that. He'd just accuse me of treating him like a stranger. Honestly, my mother gave me plenty of money every month too, but I had a habit of splurging on my favorite celebrities, so I had to cut costs elsewhere. "I'm investing. High returns, you know." Being a fan was an investment, especially for a toptier star like Lanny--his merch was incredibly popular. Once I got him out of my apartment, I finally breathed a sigh of relief. I swore I'd never overindulge again! Starting my new job, I often joined my colleagues for meals to fit in better. Eventually, I ran out of money and had to call my mother for help. She transferred $50, 000 to me but gave me a strict warning. "If you waste this money on a man again, I'm cutting you off." Chapter 2 Richard's Furious Because I Spent Money On Another Guy Her voice was so loud that my colleagues started giving me strange looks. I was exasperated. I had explained to her more than once that being a fan just meant liking a celebrity and spending some money on their endorsements. But my mom never listened and kept scolding me. "Spending money on men is pointless! You should be the one letting them spend money on you, got it?" Just as I was about to argue with her again, I heard a familiar voice on the other end of the phone. "Mrs. Reynolds, has Tricia gotten a boyfriend?" Why was Richard at my home? Startled, I immediately hung up the phone. The restaurant we picked was pretty popular, and we had to wait over an hour for a table. While we were waiting, a crowd suddenly started gathering. I glanced over and saw Lanny trying to make his way through the mob. Well, no wonder the place was packed--it's a hotspot for celebrities, and fans love to flock to places like this. Lanny saw me and headed my way, with a swarm of fans trailing behind him. It was a little intimidating. Wearing sunglasses, he looked cool, but in reality, he was a total goofball. "Tricia, you're here at my restaurant? Aren't you worried Richard will get angry?" Back in high school, Lanny and I were in the same class. He was great at math, and Sandra and I once went to his house to do homework. He casually put his arm around my shoulder, like we were just buddies, and neither of us thought much of it. But when Richard found out, he beat Lanny up. Ever since then, the two couldn't stand each other. I sighed helplessly. "If I'd known this was your restaurant, I wouldn't have come." I was a fan of Lanny--I went to his concerts and bought his endorsements, but I rarely paid attention to his personal life. One time, he recognized me from the stage and said he'd just give me a ticket next time, but I turned him down. Being a fan meant spending my own money; otherwise, it was not called being a fan, it was just being friends. Lanny handed me a membership card, saying I could eat at his restaurant for free from now on. I took it, thinking that if my mom ever really cut off my funds, at least I'd have a place to get a free meal. After dinner, I got home and saw Richard standing outside my door. I instinctively tried to retreat, but he was quick and called out to me. "Tricia, come here." For some reason, I always felt guilty around Richard. All I ever wanted to do was run away. "Richard, why are you here? Have you eaten yet?" He sneered, and despite it being hot, I felt a chill down my spine. "If I didn't show up, how would I know you're out here spending time with some guy?" I opened the door and explained that it was all just a misunderstanding. But he wasn't having it. He kept pressing, demanding to know who the guy was. I refused to tell him, thinking if he found out I'd spent money on Lanny, he'd beat him heavily. Then he gave me an ultimatum. "A kept man can't make you happy. Break up with him immediately." As I stood up, the card Lanny gave me fell to the floor. I quickly bent down to pick it up, but Richard was faster. He stared at me, eyes full of rage. "You don't even have money for yourself, and you're out here paying for his meals?" I was speechless as he stormed out of the apartment. Two hours later, Laurence, Richard's assistant, called me, practically in tears. "Tricia, what did you do to upset Mr. Stewart this time? I had just finished getting ready for bed when he called me back to the office to revise the proposal. I can't be on call 24/7!" I often visited Richard at his office, so I had gotten close with his secretaries and assistants. Since starting my internship, I knew all too well the pain of being forced to work overtime. Besides, they always gave me useful information--I couldn't just leave them hanging. I called Richard, and he picked up on the third ring, clearly still furious. I was trying to think of a way to coax him without making it obvious, but he was impatient. "Say something." My mind raced. Flattery never failed. "Richard, I heard you're still working overtime? You work so hard! With you in charge, the company is sure to thrive!" He didn't seem impressed. "If I didn't work my butt off, where would you get the money to spoil some guy?" Seeing that talking wouldn't help, I bought some snacks and headed to his office. When I arrived, the lights were still on, even though it was already ten o'clock. The tension in the air was palpable. Before I even reached the conference room, I could already hear Richard's angry voice inside. Chapter 3 I Thought Richard Liked Me, But He Brought Home A Girlfriend "Did I hire you to sit around gossiping all day?" "What kind of proposal is this? Is this your first day on the job? Take it back and redo it." I knocked on the door but didn't wait for a reply before entering. Everyone inside looked at me as if I were their savior, and I could see the gratitude in their eyes. Richard was caught off guard for a moment--he hadn't expected me to show up. I cleared my throat, walked up to him, and set the food down. "Richard, you should eat something. Mrs. Stewart said you haven't had dinner." He didn't move at first, so I grabbed his arm and guided him toward his office. As I closed the door behind us, I gave the others an "OK" signal. Richard's expression softened a bit, but he still looked like he wasn't in the mood to talk. I brought him a bowl of noodles, and he didn't even leave a single bite of meat. He must've been starving. "Richard, you need to take care of yourself. Work will never end. If you keep this up, your parents will be worried sick." He looked into my eyes, and I saw a mix of emotions--too many for me to make sense of. "And what about you?" I started tidying up the takeout container, avoiding his gaze. "Of course, I'm worried too. Why else would I come looking for you in the middle of the night?" My attempt to coax him worked. He picked up his jacket, slung it over his arm, and got ready to leave. "I'll take you home. It's not safe for you to walk alone at night." In the car, I avoided his eyes, pretending to look out the window at the passing scenery. For several days, I didn't contact Richard. My mom thought we were fighting and kept urging me not to be stubborn. "Don't be so willful. Richard is busy with work, and he still makes time to take care of you." I didn't know how to explain it to her, so I just stayed silent. As work got busier, I pushed the matter to the back of my mind. We spoke occasionally, but only about work-related things. Eventually, he became distant with me. I sighed with relief, but at the same time, I felt an odd emptiness inside. Time flew by, and before I knew it, Christmas was approaching. The company gave us a holiday starting three days before Christmas. Coincidentally, Lanny was holding a concert in Alodon, so I flew over to catch it and even took a photo with him afterward. Lanny said we hadn't taken a picture together in years and asked me to send him one. I did, and moments later, I saw him post it on Facebook. "Great concert! Thanks to all the friends who came from far and wide." When I returned to Pheldence, it was Christmas Eve. For some reason, I couldn't shake this feeling of unease. Every year, our families took turns hosting the family dinner, and this year it was at Richard's house. As soon as I walked in, I heard laughter coming from the living room. I headed toward the sound and saw a gentle, elegant girl sitting on the couch. She had long hair, was dressed in a luxury coat, and carried a limited-edition handbag. Clearly, she was the same type of person as Richard. The most important thing was that she was sitting next to him, with her hand linked through his arm. Richard didn't even look at me. His attention was completely on her. I felt an inexplicable surge of frustration and placed my things on the coffee table a bit too forcefully. My mom shot me a sharp look. "Tricia, can you show some manners? You just walked in, and you're already giving attitude." Richard smiled--barely, but I noticed it. Sitting across from them, their closeness felt glaringly obvious. "So, what should I call you?" I asked the girl. For the first time since I arrived, Richard actually looked at me. "Tricia, this is my girlfriend. Say 'Hi'." I didn't know what to say. Suddenly, I understood where that feeling of unease had been coming from. Richard was in a relationship, and I was the one who felt the most hurt. I quickly greeted her, but despite the feast in front of me, everything tasted bland and unappetizing. Once I got home, I rushed to my room, buried myself under the covers, and let the tears flow freely. I didn't know how much time had passed when I suddenly heard the door creak open. I hastily wiped away my tears, pretending to be asleep. Someone walked slowly to my bedside. I could feel his gaze on me as he crouched down. He pulled at my blanket, and though I clung to it, I couldn't match his strength. I opened my eyes to see Richard standing by my bed with a faint smile. "Tricia, why are you crying just because I'm in a relationship?" ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &3& | Fun Novel | 1341 | https://www.facebook.com/100090881055588/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679605 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/4/25, 1:52 PM | 1738567630 | 1749063142 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | VIDEO | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/61215322-fb_contact-enad50_2-250126-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=233925549638247&exdata=FC3EB673E6B15A849AE5B610AF9D91617B4F80E793A49375 | 1.1646967472085E+14 | Fun Novel | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475153306_1277839286664961_1325546801249189766_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=csc84OLN3-gQ7kNvgE3Cuq3&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYCU7sGpw-qQOGHp6j-l_J9naJal3nVPvx89wjEJxN_SZA&oe=67A64E4B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Ever since my father passed away, Richard had taken on a brotherly role in my life, but he often disapproved of my closeness with other guys. Every time I found a boyfriend, Richard scared them off. I complained to my friend, "My brother is stricter than my mom!" Sandra handed me a bag of chips and thought for a moment. "Could it be that Richard likes you? You guys aren't even related by blood." Since then, I deliberately distanced myself from him, but during the New Year, he suddenly brought home a girl. "Tricia, call her sister-in-law." ===== Richard was only a year older than me, but he had always used his role as an older brother to control me. When I was younger, he'd scold me for skipping classes. As I grew older and started dating, he still interfered. One time, my friend joked, "Maybe Richard likes you? You guys aren't even related by blood." Since then, I had tried to keep my distance. But during the holidays, he suddenly brought a girl home. "Tricia, this is my girlfriend. Say 'Hi'." That night, I locked myself in my room and cried uncontrollably. He pulled me out from under the covers and gently wiped away my tears. "You could find a boyfriend to annoy me, but I couldn't do the same to you?" Lately, luck hadn't been on my side. Every time I found a boyfriend, Richard scared them off. I complained to my friend, "My brother is stricter than my mom!" Sandra handed me a bag of chips and thought for a moment. "Could it be that Richard likes you? You guys aren't even related by blood." It was true. My dad and his dad had been old friends, and ever since my dad passed away, his family had been taking care of us. My mother had always told me to treat Richard like a real brother. Even though we weren't related by blood, he was more responsible than any real brother. Back in school, he would watch me do my homework every day and even lecture me if I skipped class. He was only a year older than me, but he had always acted like an adult. Whenever I did something wrong, he'd scold me faster than my mom. "Tricia, that's not polite. Don't do that." "Tricia, don't talk badly about people behind their backs." The thought that he might like me sent chills down my spine. "Don't say that! You're going to give me nightmares!" After leaving Sandra's house, her words kept echoing in my head, as if they had put a spell on me. That night, I dreamed that Richard cornered me at the stairwell, gripping my chin and ki*sing me forcefully. "Who said you could get a boyfriend?" I woke up in a cold sweat, terrified, and immediately blocked his number. Thankfully, I was about to start my internship and wouldn't be home much longer. When I opened the door the next morning, Richard just happened to be walking by. Instinctively, I stepped back and slammed the door shut. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw his cold, piercing stare. It felt like a blade cutting right through me. Later that evening, we went to his apartment for dinner. In front of everyone, he asked why I had blocked his number. I stammered, unable to come up with a reason, and had no choice but to unblock him. "I must've clicked the wrong button..." Trying to appease him, I offered him a piece of chicken with a flattering smile. "Richard, you look so thin! You should eat more meat." But something I said must've annoyed him because he even moved his plate farther away. "No need." I had found my internship on my own, even though Richard strongly opposed it and insisted I join his company. But this time, I stood my ground and firmly refused. I was too afraid that if we spent too much time together, something would happen. The apartment we were living in had been rented by Richard, thinking I'd work at his company and we'd commute together. But after starting my job, I found a new place to avoid seeing him as much as possible. My mother would text me every day, asking what I wanted to eat. She'd have the servant cook it and then deliver it to me. I'd give her a whole list of dishes, but Richard was always the one who showed up at my door. I almost slammed it shut again. But when I saw the angry look in his eyes, I stopped myself. I forced a smile and took the food container from him. "Richard, I've missed you." He ignored me, walking around the apartment to inspect the place. "Tricia, I send you so much money every month, and this is where you live? Where's all the money gone?" I hadn't touched a cent of the money he gave me. I didn't want to owe him or his family too much. But I didn't dare tell him that. He'd just accuse me of treating him like a stranger. Honestly, my mother gave me plenty of money every month too, but I had a habit of splurging on my favorite celebrities, so I had to cut costs elsewhere. "I'm investing. High returns, you know." Being a fan was an investment, especially for a toptier star like Lanny--his merch was incredibly popular. Once I got him out of my apartment, I finally breathed a sigh of relief. I swore I'd never overindulge again! Starting my new job, I often joined my colleagues for meals to fit in better. Eventually, I ran out of money and had to call my mother for help. She transferred $50, 000 to me but gave me a strict warning. "If you waste this money on a man again, I'm cutting you off." Chapter 2 Richard's Furious Because I Spent Money On Another Guy Her voice was so loud that my colleagues started giving me strange looks. I was exasperated. I had explained to her more than once that being a fan just meant liking a celebrity and spending some money on their endorsements. But my mom never listened and kept scolding me. "Spending money on men is pointless! You should be the one letting them spend money on you, got it?" Just as I was about to argue with her again, I heard a familiar voice on the other end of the phone. "Mrs. Reynolds, has Tricia gotten a boyfriend?" Why was Richard at my home? Startled, I immediately hung up the phone. The restaurant we picked was pretty popular, and we had to wait over an hour for a table. While we were waiting, a crowd suddenly started gathering. I glanced over and saw Lanny trying to make his way through the mob. Well, no wonder the place was packed--it's a hotspot for celebrities, and fans love to flock to places like this. Lanny saw me and headed my way, with a swarm of fans trailing behind him. It was a little intimidating. Wearing sunglasses, he looked cool, but in reality, he was a total goofball. "Tricia, you're here at my restaurant? Aren't you worried Richard will get angry?" Back in high school, Lanny and I were in the same class. He was great at math, and Sandra and I once went to his house to do homework. He casually put his arm around my shoulder, like we were just buddies, and neither of us thought much of it. But when Richard found out, he beat Lanny up. Ever since then, the two couldn't stand each other. I sighed helplessly. "If I'd known this was your restaurant, I wouldn't have come." I was a fan of Lanny--I went to his concerts and bought his endorsements, but I rarely paid attention to his personal life. One time, he recognized me from the stage and said he'd just give me a ticket next time, but I turned him down. Being a fan meant spending my own money; otherwise, it was not called being a fan, it was just being friends. Lanny handed me a membership card, saying I could eat at his restaurant for free from now on. I took it, thinking that if my mom ever really cut off my funds, at least I'd have a place to get a free meal. After dinner, I got home and saw Richard standing outside my door. I instinctively tried to retreat, but he was quick and called out to me. "Tricia, come here." For some reason, I always felt guilty around Richard. All I ever wanted to do was run away. "Richard, why are you here? Have you eaten yet?" He sneered, and despite it being hot, I felt a chill down my spine. "If I didn't show up, how would I know you're out here spending time with some guy?" I opened the door and explained that it was all just a misunderstanding. But he wasn't having it. He kept pressing, demanding to know who the guy was. I refused to tell him, thinking if he found out I'd spent money on Lanny, he'd beat him heavily. Then he gave me an ultimatum. "A kept man can't make you happy. Break up with him immediately." As I stood up, the card Lanny gave me fell to the floor. I quickly bent down to pick it up, but Richard was faster. He stared at me, eyes full of rage. "You don't even have money for yourself, and you're out here paying for his meals?" I was speechless as he stormed out of the apartment. Two hours later, Laurence, Richard's assistant, called me, practically in tears. "Tricia, what did you do to upset Mr. Stewart this time? I had just finished getting ready for bed when he called me back to the office to revise the proposal. I can't be on call 24/7!" I often visited Richard at his office, so I had gotten close with his secretaries and assistants. Since starting my internship, I knew all too well the pain of being forced to work overtime. Besides, they always gave me useful information--I couldn't just leave them hanging. I called Richard, and he picked up on the third ring, clearly still furious. I was trying to think of a way to coax him without making it obvious, but he was impatient. "Say something." My mind raced. Flattery never failed. "Richard, I heard you're still working overtime? You work so hard! With you in charge, the company is sure to thrive!" He didn't seem impressed. "If I didn't work my butt off, where would you get the money to spoil some guy?" Seeing that talking wouldn't help, I bought some snacks and headed to his office. When I arrived, the lights were still on, even though it was already ten o'clock. The tension in the air was palpable. Before I even reached the conference room, I could already hear Richard's angry voice inside. Chapter 3 I Thought Richard Liked Me, But He Brought Home A Girlfriend "Did I hire you to sit around gossiping all day?" "What kind of proposal is this? Is this your first day on the job? Take it back and redo it." I knocked on the door but didn't wait for a reply before entering. Everyone inside looked at me as if I were their savior, and I could see the gratitude in their eyes. Richard was caught off guard for a moment--he hadn't expected me to show up. I cleared my throat, walked up to him, and set the food down. "Richard, you should eat something. Mrs. Stewart said you haven't had dinner." He didn't move at first, so I grabbed his arm and guided him toward his office. As I closed the door behind us, I gave the others an "OK" signal. Richard's expression softened a bit, but he still looked like he wasn't in the mood to talk. I brought him a bowl of noodles, and he didn't even leave a single bite of meat. He must've been starving. "Richard, you need to take care of yourself. Work will never end. If you keep this up, your parents will be worried sick." He looked into my eyes, and I saw a mix of emotions--too many for me to make sense of. "And what about you?" I started tidying up the takeout container, avoiding his gaze. "Of course, I'm worried too. Why else would I come looking for you in the middle of the night?" My attempt to coax him worked. He picked up his jacket, slung it over his arm, and got ready to leave. "I'll take you home. It's not safe for you to walk alone at night." In the car, I avoided his eyes, pretending to look out the window at the passing scenery. For several days, I didn't contact Richard. My mom thought we were fighting and kept urging me not to be stubborn. "Don't be so willful. Richard is busy with work, and he still makes time to take care of you." I didn't know how to explain it to her, so I just stayed silent. As work got busier, I pushed the matter to the back of my mind. We spoke occasionally, but only about work-related things. Eventually, he became distant with me. I sighed with relief, but at the same time, I felt an odd emptiness inside. Time flew by, and before I knew it, Christmas was approaching. The company gave us a holiday starting three days before Christmas. Coincidentally, Lanny was holding a concert in Alodon, so I flew over to catch it and even took a photo with him afterward. Lanny said we hadn't taken a picture together in years and asked me to send him one. I did, and moments later, I saw him post it on Facebook. "Great concert! Thanks to all the friends who came from far and wide." When I returned to Pheldence, it was Christmas Eve. For some reason, I couldn't shake this feeling of unease. Every year, our families took turns hosting the family dinner, and this year it was at Richard's house. As soon as I walked in, I heard laughter coming from the living room. I headed toward the sound and saw a gentle, elegant girl sitting on the couch. She had long hair, was dressed in a luxury coat, and carried a limited-edition handbag. Clearly, she was the same type of person as Richard. The most important thing was that she was sitting next to him, with her hand linked through his arm. Richard didn't even look at me. His attention was completely on her. I felt an inexplicable surge of frustration and placed my things on the coffee table a bit too forcefully. My mom shot me a sharp look. "Tricia, can you show some manners? You just walked in, and you're already giving attitude." Richard smiled--barely, but I noticed it. Sitting across from them, their closeness felt glaringly obvious. "So, what should I call you?" I asked the girl. For the first time since I arrived, Richard actually looked at me. "Tricia, this is my girlfriend. Say 'Hi'." I didn't know what to say. Suddenly, I understood where that feeling of unease had been coming from. Richard was in a relationship, and I was the one who felt the most hurt. I quickly greeted her, but despite the feast in front of me, everything tasted bland and unappetizing. Once I got home, I rushed to my room, buried myself under the covers, and let the tears flow freely. I didn't know how much time had passed when I suddenly heard the door creak open. I hastily wiped away my tears, pretending to be asleep. Someone walked slowly to my bedside. I could feel his gaze on me as he crouched down. He pulled at my blanket, and though I clung to it, I couldn't match his strength. I opened my eyes to see Richard standing by my bed with a faint smile. "Tricia, why are you crying just because I'm in a relationship?" ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &3& | Fun Novel | 1341 | https://www.facebook.com/100090881055588/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679680 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567636 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | VIDEO | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=304554039400649&exdata=C53DCDAE4F2816FFC2A7B6126759B589B85B33AA366CC31E | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476120230_588622713936137_81401143686180692_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oUprbuFPAsAQ7kNvgEYo3sD&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYDUT9LFV1EJOhcUoS_nlO4EbBpkoToprUsLW4AaMujJzA&oe=67A62D54 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | After being released, her malicious stepsister threatened her with their mother's life and tried to send her to an older man. On her way to "sacrifice" herself, she unexpectedly met a mafia kingpin. She took the initiative to seduce him for a partnership. From then on, she turned the tablesโtearing apart the fake angel, slapping her stepmother, and refusing to be bullied again! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &10& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679673 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/30/25, 12:26 PM | 1738567634 | 1748625980 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | VIDEO | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/69002322-fb_contact-ena295_2-0131-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=7929461117168105&exdata=B7502C52902DDDD9162F56DE5BA5B8245A4B44A071013C4A | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475767046_490186387467070_2839514545841683101_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-hDAlKJm7uoQ7kNvgEsvjW_&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYCDQXkxAZCEZbSJwQKJNjhU6KpyfV3WF40dvDzpCXllsw&oe=67A64E70 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Her fiancรฉ cheated with her stepsister but still wanted to marry her. With a mocking smile, she called off the engagement. When the sc*mbag cornered her at her door, the elite tycoon appeared behind her--wrapped in nothing but a towel... ===== "Are you seeing someone? Spend a night with me, and I'll forget about the damage to my car," Charlee Sullivan suggested boldly. Charlee leaned casually against a gleaming crimson sports car, her fitted scarlet dress emphasizing her striking silhouette. Her delicate face, framed by soft waves of auburn hair, radiated sophistication. Her usually vibrant eyes now carried an icy detachment. She wasn't one to forgive easily; after discovering that Liam Todd, her fiance, dared to cheat on her, she craved a way to retaliate. The man, crouched over his battered motorcycle, straightened up at her words. Under the streetlight's glow, his rugged, undeniably magnetic features radiated an air of untamed charisma. "I'm single," he replied, his deep baritone carrying an irresistible allure. Charlee smirked, leaning in slightly. Her curls tumbled forward, dusted with vibrant remnants of party streamers. And this man--his sharp jawline, commanding presence, and effortless charm--was everything Liam wasn't. Liam, she mused, paled in comparison to this stranger, who seemed more than capable of meeting her every desire. "So did you agree?" The man's gaze flitted between the dented luxury vehicle and his wrecked motorcycle, a flicker of amusement in his expression. Her prized car, he thought, wasn't even worth the cost of his bike's handlebars. With a sly grin, he pulled her into his embrace, his tone teasing but firm. "Deal. I can't pay for your car repairs anyway. But don't complain later, little firecracker." With that, he swept her off her feet, carrying her with ease toward a nearby h*tel... When he said a whole night, he wasn't exaggerating. Charlee lost track of the moments she blacked out. Hours later, as she slipped back into her outfit, she couldn't summon the courage to meet his gaze. Her hoarse voice trembled with a warning as she said, "I have the crash footage. The moment I step out, we're nothing to each other. Stay silent." From behind her, his voice dripped with amusement, lazy yet sharp. "Interesting. I've kept a copy of that clip, too." Not catching his implication, Charlee grabbed her belongings and headed for the exit. Her shaky legs almost betrayed her, threatening to collapse beneath her. His deep chuckle echoed. "Sure you don't need more time to recover?" What a smug b**tard! She slammed the door behind her with every ounce of strength, nearly tempted to hit him with it. She missed the possessive glint in his eyes as he watched her leave. In the hotel lobby, the glowing screen of a television displayed breaking headlines. "A shocking revelation today--two elite families in Jurgh, set to unite through marriage, have faced public embarrassment. Sources claim the Todd heir stormed out of the ceremony, leaving the Sullivan heiress humiliated." A bystander muttered, "Rumor has it the groom's quite fond of his fiancee's half-sister. Now that her parents have rekindled their relationship, who knows? Maybe he'll end up with the other sibling." On the screen, Charlee appeared in a crimson gown, her hair dotted with celebratory confetti. The camera lingered on her frozen smile, magnifying the heartbreak behind it. Surprisingly, after her intense encounter, Charlee realized the pain from the breakup wasn't as sharp anymore. She had clung too tightly to Liam, convinced their years-long relationship was indestructible. She had let him take her affection for granted. But he was never irreplaceable. Someone else had managed to fill the void effortlessly. The stranger from last night, for instance, who possessed boundless endurance. Chapter 2 Obsession Charlee said, "Hello. I'd like to check out." Distracted by a heated debate over the latest news on TV, the receptionists glanced up from their conversation. Their eyes widened as they recognized the woman from the video, forcing a slightly awkward smile. One receptionist looked back at the screen and then at Charlee, clearly captivated by the latter's striking appearance. Her eyes flicked briefly to Charlee's neck as she processed the latter's check-out. As Charlee drove home, she reflected on the curious glances she received from the receptionists. Curious, she pulled out a mirror. The hi*keys on her neck were hard to miss. She reached for her foundation, carefully covering the marks. Most of them were still visible, though. That man's stamina was truly remarkable. Their meeting had begun with a car accident and quickly turned into a night of carefree fun. The memory brought a soft laugh to her lips. Thirty minutes later, she steered her sports car into the driveway of the Sullivans' grand villa. At the same moment, a black Cayenne rolled in beside her. As the car door swung open, Liam gently assisted Stacey Sullivan out, treating her with utmost care. His gaze turned cold when he spotted Charlee. "Keep your troubles away from Stacey. We'll talk later." His composed manner brought back memories of him setting boundaries, like prohibiting her from eating ice cream during her periods or wearing skirts to school. There was a time she almost adored this aspect of Liam. Now, it only disgusted her. Facing him, she said, "This is good timing. I'm calling off our engagement." Under the sunlight, she rose elegantly, her perfect skin radiating, her beautiful face emitting a captivating charm. Liam was caught off guard and then noticed the marks on her neck; his eyes filled with anger immediately. Releasing Stacey's arm, he strode toward Charlee and seized her wrist with a grip that almost broke it. "Where were you last night? Who is responsible for this?" He resembled a husband who felt deceived. Oh, the irony. "Let go," Charlee said, her eyes cold. "All this time, I've treated you well, yet you've acted shamelessly. To think you'd let another man's l*ps on your neck!" Liam refused to believe Charlee could betray him like this. He was convinced she'd asked someone to make those marks just to agitate him. Trapped in his grasp, Charlee flashed a mischievous smile. "Oh, it wasn't just my neck. His k*sses covered me completely." Realizing Charlee had seen the video, Liam's hold inadvertently weakened. "There's a reason for this. Please, don't let this hurt Stacey." He was aware of the video then. He certainly knew how to keep the excitement alive in the b*droom. Charlee could no longer hold back her frustration and sl*pped him. "Charlee, what's going on?" Stacey cried out as she dashed forward, encircling Charlee's waist with her arms and forcibly pulling the latter back. "Liam means the world to me, blame me if you must. He treats you so well. How could you sl*p him?" Stacey's tearful plea was followed by a low, sinister chuckle. Stacey whispered, "So, what is it like to be left alone at your own engagement? I merely scratched my wrist, and Liam couldn't stop comforting me." A cold dread crept over Charlee, feeling like she was trapped by a venomous snake, urging her to shove Stacey away. The moment she touched Stacey's arm, Stacey screamed and tumbled to the ground, her wrist bl**ding through the bandage. "Charlee!" Liam, seething with anger, rushed to Stacey's aid. "You owe Stacey an apology, now!" "Don't be so harsh, Liam," Stacey said softly, holding onto Liam's hand as he pointed at Charlee, her voice tender yet pitiful. "This is on me; I shouldn't have let my feelings for you go so far. She's supposed to be your bride. It's natural for Charlee to be upset. I accept whatever comes." Her act of pity managed to melt Liam's heart. "Please, don't cry, Stacey," he said. Chapter 3 Totally Disappointed Charlee's gaze lingered on Liam and Stacey's display of affection, her tone biting as she sneered, "You do realize this is on you, right?" Liam's eyes darkened with fury, cutting toward her like a bl*de. "You've crossed a line, Charlee. Stacey is your sister. She almost died, and you still feel the need to antagonize her?" "Sister?" Charlee's laugh was as icy as her stare. "You mean the one who s*duced her sister's fiance?" "You..." Liam's anger simmered as he steadied Stacey, leading her toward the Sullivan estate. As they neared Charlee, he turned sharply and barked, "Wait for me at the door." He spoke with the authority of someone who expected to be obeyed, confident in her usual compliance. But instead, Charlee strode past him without a second glance, her red dress flowing behind her. With her sleek black heels clicking against the pavement and her crimson lips curved in disdain, she exuded an untamed elegance, like a predator that couldn't be tamed. "This is my house," she said coolly, throwing the words over her shoulder. "You don't get to dictate what I do." Liam froze, startled by her defiance, his eyes glued to her retreating figure. Something about her felt different--unfamiliar. "Liam..." Stacey's soft, delicate voice rang out beside him, pulling him back to reality. His voice grew gentler. "That's just her way. Don't mind her. I'll handle it later and make sure she doesn't trouble you again. Let's get you back to rest." Stacey's eyes welled up as she gripped his arm tightly, unwilling to let go. "You said you'd stay with me, Liam," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. Her plea struck a chord deep within him. He replied softly, "Of course, I will. You did all that because you cared so much for me. I'll stay by your side until you're well again." Meanwhile, Charlee went upstairs, took a long shower, and changed before coming back to see Liam and Stacey finally entering the house together. Standing on the balcony, she nearly choked at the sight of them embracing, their affection on full display near the doorway. "Had enough of that yet?" she asked dryly, lounging on the sleek leather sofa, her legs elegantly crossed, exuding the air of a prowling feline. Suddenly, a sharp voice rang out from above. "What's your problem, Charlee? You're becoming impossible!" Her father, Keith Sullivan's stern expression darkened as he descended the stairs, trailed by Hannah Sullivan, his former wife. Hannah had settled in here, officially taking the title of Mrs. Sullivan in the eyes of others. Though dressed to impress, her harsh and hostile demeanor was impossible to miss. To Charlee, it was clear as day that, like Stacey, she was utterly hypocritical. Charlee didn't bother with an argument. Instead, she pulled out her phone, tapped a few times, and projected footage from the security camera onto the massive living room TV. The screen revealed Stacey and Liam locked in an intimate e*brace, their l*ps pressed together with a level of closeness that left nothing to the imagination. "Why would you do this, Charlee?" Stacey wailed, covering her face as though humiliated, then dashed upstairs, her sobs echoing through the halls. Anyone unaware of the full story might think Charlee had wronged her instead of exposing her. "Stacey, don't do anything reckless!" Hannah shouted, quickly following after her in a show of concern, making sure everyone remembered that Stacey was delicate and must not be upset. As expected, Keith lost his temper and stormed over to yank the TV's plug from the wall. "Charlee, are you determined to destroy this household?" Keith barked furiously. "Perhaps you should be asking Stacey that question," Charlee retorted, her disappointment cutting through her cold tone. She fixed him with an unyielding stare--one filled with bitterness, entirely void of warmth. Since losing her mother, she had come to understand just how fragile family bonds could be. For sixteen years, her mother had sacrificed everything to stand by Keith's side. Yet within a week of her passing, he had welcomed Hannah and Stacey into their home. How could he be so cruel? Chapter 4 Her Cruel Father Charlee's accusations deepened the anger etched on Keith's face. In a sharp tone, he said, "Stacey is your sister, and this is her home, too. She's bottled up her emotions, staying out of your way when it comes to Liam. She's reached a point of despair so profound it drove her to attempt to end her life. Yet, here you are, devoid of compassion and consumed by hostility. How can you be so unfeeling?" Liam, having shaken off the earlier awkwardness, finally spoke. "Mr. Sullivan, perhaps you should check on Stacey. I'll handle things with Charlee." Even now, Liam shielded Charlee, seemingly treating her with the same patience and indulgence as always. But his actions felt like repeated blows, each one more painful than the last. Charlee rose to her feet, her gaze icy and expression unreadable. "There's nothing left to discuss. The engagement is over." Liam countered, "Charlee, we've been together for years, and you've refused to get closer to me. I'm only human--I have needs too." His justification was absurd. Agreeing to share intimacy only after their engagement had somehow morphed into his excuse for betrayal. "So this is why you turned to Stacey?" A moment of silence followed. She couldn't help but let out a cold laugh. "If you're shameless enough to do this, at least have the decency to announce your plans to marry her. Stop skulking around like a coward. You're pathetic." Turning to leave, she felt Liam seize her wrist. "Are you insane?" He couldn't believe she had just called him a coward. She had never belittled him like this before. Charlee exhaled slowly before driving her foot into his shin. His pained cry echoed as she wrenched her hand free. "Try me, and you'll regret it," she warned, voice steady but threatening. At eighteen, Charlee had survived a harrowing kidnapping and near-r*pe attempt. The trauma had driven her to secretly train in kickboxing for four years. After winning a local championship, she had once jokingly told Liam she'd protect him as his personal bodyguard. Who would have thought he'd one day be the recipient of those skills? The irony was overwhelming. "You br*t! Get back here!" Keith stormed into the room, catching the tail end of their argument, his voice booming with fury. But Charlee didn't falter. She walked away with poise, not sparing him a glance. Now that the pretense was shattered, she was ready to move forward with her long-delayed plans. Liam clenched his jaw, suppressing the pain, waiting before attempting to stand. Keith waited for him to recover and then spoke. "Liam, I've indulged Charlee too much. About the marriage..." His meaning was unmistakable. He wanted to cancel the marriage arrangement between Charlee and Liam. Without the Todd family, Charlee would become obedient. And if he married Stacey to Liam, the Todd family would be his aide completely. Liam's frustration was evident. "Delay it. Stacey's health is fragile. Once she's better, I'll marry Charlee." Though Charlee had ended things, Liam didn't take her words seriously. At sixteen, she had hit rock bottom, relying entirely on him to pull her through. Her years of unwavering devotion were proof enough that she'd never truly leave him. โฆโฆ In the Sullivan Group's project department, Charlee sat in her office, focused on compiling reports. Keith hadn't stripped her of authority due to the family's partnership with the Todds. But now that she had called off the engagement, she needed to secure her position. At three in the afternoon, her assistant, Alexia Jenkins, burst into the office, knocking hastily before stepping inside, her face visibly drained of color. Trailing behind her, Stacey entered clad in a tailored light-gray suit, radiating an air of confidence and control. The meekness she displayed in front of Liam had vanished, replaced by an unrestrained sense of triumph. "Charlee, the board has voted to relieve you of your duties as project director. Starting today, I'll be stepping in to take over. All incomplete projects under your supervision will now fall to me. As for your reassignment..." Stacey's lips curled into a mocking smile as she tossed a blue folder onto the desk. "The newly established Green Biopharmaceuticals in the eastern suburbs needs someone to manage it. The tech is fully patented, and the production lines run seamlessly--your job will just be signing papers and killing time. See? Dad hasn't forgotten about you entirely." Chapter 5 Green Biopharmaceuticals The Sullivan Group owned four branches, and Green Biopharmaceuticals was the least promising of them all. Despite its grandiose name, it was nothing more than a basic contract manufacturing facility. Devoid of innovation or proprietary patents, it functioned solely as a production line, lacking any semblance of independence. Still, this company marked the genesis of the Sullivan Group's wealth, the hard-won achievement of Charlee's mother during her initial ventures into the industry. Charlee tapped her finger lightly on the document. "I'm the project director. Do you really think you can demote me to manage some rundown company? Dream on." Stacey remained composed, as though she had expected Charlee's resistance. "Dad said if you're unwilling to leave, you can stay in the project department, but under me as your supervisor. You'll have to take my orders." Charlee let out a sharp, derisive laugh. Her disdain was written all over her elegant face. "Mr. Sullivan knows you're useless, so he's forcing me to stay and clean up after you. How pathetic." The office door stood wide open, intentionally so. Stacey had planned for the entire project team to witness Charlee's humiliation. Yet, the plan backfired. With an air of confidence, Stacey squared her shoulders and lifted her chin. "I was appointed as director by the board. It was a unanimous decision. At the year-end meeting, I'll lead this team in collecting our accolades. Just wait." Charlee clicked her tongue dismissively. "Stop puffing yourself up." Without another word, she made a call and put it on speaker. After a few rings, Keith answered, his authoritative tone filling the room. "With the tension between you and Liam, I have to make a decision. Sign the papers and head to the company. Don't stir up trouble. I have a strategy in mind." His tone was firm yet sounded almost considerate. Charlee's lips curled into a mocking smile. "Mr. Sullivan, I own eight percent of the shares. Don't I qualify as a stakeholder?" Keith was silent for a moment before replying begrudgingly, "If two-thirds of the shareholders agree, it's out of your hands." His message was clear... Charlee's voice didn't matter. Charlee arched an eyebrow and glanced at Stacey with a smirk. "Unanimous, you said?" Stacey flushed crimson, while whispers spread among the onlookers outside the office. Stacey's credibility was already in tatters before she even assumed her new role. Before Stacey could recover and respond, Charlee's tone turned icy. "I want ownership of the pharmaceutical plant. Draft a revised agreement and send it to me. Then I'll sign and step aside. Otherwise... I don't mind dragging us all down." Before Keith could protest, Charlee hung up. She understood Stacey's ambitions all too well, but after three years as project director, Charlee wasn't about to surrender without a fight. Besides, she was never a pushover. Keith couldn't afford to gamble with everything at stake. Thirty minutes later, the company transfer papers were delivered to her desk. Charlee reviewed them meticulously before signing without hesitation. As she prepared to leave, Stacey, now firmly seated in the director's chair, issued orders. "Other than personal belongings, you're not to take a single thing from this office. Alexia, check her items." Alexia, who owed her position to Charlee, hesitated. Her contract, however, was with the Sullivan Group. Sparing her the dilemma, Charlee opened her own bag and box. She turned to Stacey, holding up a small jewelry case, her strikingly clear eyes fixed on her rival. "These are the ring and bracelet Liam had custom-made for me. One of a kind. Want them?" Seeing Stacey's enraged expression, Charlee tossed the jewelry box into the trash with a casual motion and dusted off her hands. "Getting rid of j*nk feels amazing." As she exited, the sound of shattering cups erupted behind her. Charlee smiled to herself. Was Stacey already cracking? She'd need to hold out until those projects were under her control. That was when the real battle would begin. Charlee had underestimated Stacey's and Keith's pettiness. When she attempted to drive away, security halted her vehicle, asserting it was property of the Sullivan Group. Now acting as director of the pharmaceutical company, Charlee had lost her privilege to use this car since the company's split from the Sullivan Group. Exiting her sports car, she slipped on her sunglasses and glanced toward her office building. Despite the distance, she could distinctly make out Stacey on the floor of her office, gracefully enjoying a cup of coffee. In a daring move, Charlee gave Stacey the finger, then turned on her heel and walked off with her belongings to hail a nearby taxi. As she waited, a sleek black Maybach rolled to a stop before her. The door swung open automatically, revealing a man lounging comfortably, an amused expression playing across his refined features. "What a coincidence." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679567 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/30/25, 12:26 PM | 1738567627 | 1748626007 | 2451 | elfi.com | Learn More | DCO | Check Your Rate with ELFI | Click for details. | https://www.elfi.com/find-my-rate-1/private-student-loans-elfi/?utm_source=pai&utm_medium=facebook&utm_campaign=houston | 1.6117755424076E+15 | ELFI | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474951732_1704734527122535_1005779562309268744_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Pnf-JOjXoc0Q7kNvgEYowry&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYA5QZrSmZ1bUmxni_RbLI2Go23OG_1sfq-1oBHxH898ug&oe=67A63A50 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | At ELFI, we offer a variety of loan options to fit your needs, whether youโre a parent, student, or a postgraduate. Find the loan thatโs right for you, with personalized support and no fees or painful waiting. Itโs easy to get started. Preview your estimated rates and repayment options in minutes without commitment or impacting your credit score. See the ELFI difference for yourself today! | ELFI | 6035 | https://www.facebook.com/savewithelfi/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679668 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/30/25, 12:29 PM | 1738567634 | 1748626176 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=304554039400649&exdata=C53DCDAE4F2816FF0A8E71EFF8B39A312854DA76A44250EF | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475641191_1147442576783306_2071279101157268202_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1YJGszLOdZ0Q7kNvgFhyzaf&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYDae7DneS1tP_r5Dj6_qUEExx8mufN6Lzn5aiI_mr4Cjg&oe=67A6598C | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | After being released, her malicious stepsister threatened her with their mother's life and tried to send her to an older man. On her way to "sacrifice" herself, she unexpectedly met a mafia kingpin. She took the initiative to seduce him for a partnership. From then on, she turned the tablesโtearing apart the fake angel, slapping her stepmother, and refusing to be bullied again! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &10& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679679 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/30/25, 12:36 PM | 1738567635 | 1748626600 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | VIDEO | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/69002322-fb_contact-ena295_2-0131-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=7929461117168105&exdata=B7502C52902DDDD9ADF03ACF555B774F03AEB8C537BE615B | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475743771_1109053214300670_1733543749502066832_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OSJ_HP-9mRMQ7kNvgEFJNKy&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYApQy4Wd2Foz3XpoSBFa35odRyxzW6_46rydJIlqvze_w&oe=67A6367D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Her fiancรฉ cheated with her stepsister but still wanted to marry her. With a mocking smile, she called off the engagement. When the sc*mbag cornered her at her door, the elite tycoon appeared behind her--wrapped in nothing but a towel... ===== "Are you seeing someone? Spend a night with me, and I'll forget about the damage to my car," Charlee Sullivan suggested boldly. Charlee leaned casually against a gleaming crimson sports car, her fitted scarlet dress emphasizing her striking silhouette. Her delicate face, framed by soft waves of auburn hair, radiated sophistication. Her usually vibrant eyes now carried an icy detachment. She wasn't one to forgive easily; after discovering that Liam Todd, her fiance, dared to cheat on her, she craved a way to retaliate. The man, crouched over his battered motorcycle, straightened up at her words. Under the streetlight's glow, his rugged, undeniably magnetic features radiated an air of untamed charisma. "I'm single," he replied, his deep baritone carrying an irresistible allure. Charlee smirked, leaning in slightly. Her curls tumbled forward, dusted with vibrant remnants of party streamers. And this man--his sharp jawline, commanding presence, and effortless charm--was everything Liam wasn't. Liam, she mused, paled in comparison to this stranger, who seemed more than capable of meeting her every desire. "So did you agree?" The man's gaze flitted between the dented luxury vehicle and his wrecked motorcycle, a flicker of amusement in his expression. Her prized car, he thought, wasn't even worth the cost of his bike's handlebars. With a sly grin, he pulled her into his embrace, his tone teasing but firm. "Deal. I can't pay for your car repairs anyway. But don't complain later, little firecracker." With that, he swept her off her feet, carrying her with ease toward a nearby h*tel... When he said a whole night, he wasn't exaggerating. Charlee lost track of the moments she blacked out. Hours later, as she slipped back into her outfit, she couldn't summon the courage to meet his gaze. Her hoarse voice trembled with a warning as she said, "I have the crash footage. The moment I step out, we're nothing to each other. Stay silent." From behind her, his voice dripped with amusement, lazy yet sharp. "Interesting. I've kept a copy of that clip, too." Not catching his implication, Charlee grabbed her belongings and headed for the exit. Her shaky legs almost betrayed her, threatening to collapse beneath her. His deep chuckle echoed. "Sure you don't need more time to recover?" What a smug b**tard! She slammed the door behind her with every ounce of strength, nearly tempted to hit him with it. She missed the possessive glint in his eyes as he watched her leave. In the hotel lobby, the glowing screen of a television displayed breaking headlines. "A shocking revelation today--two elite families in Jurgh, set to unite through marriage, have faced public embarrassment. Sources claim the Todd heir stormed out of the ceremony, leaving the Sullivan heiress humiliated." A bystander muttered, "Rumor has it the groom's quite fond of his fiancee's half-sister. Now that her parents have rekindled their relationship, who knows? Maybe he'll end up with the other sibling." On the screen, Charlee appeared in a crimson gown, her hair dotted with celebratory confetti. The camera lingered on her frozen smile, magnifying the heartbreak behind it. Surprisingly, after her intense encounter, Charlee realized the pain from the breakup wasn't as sharp anymore. She had clung too tightly to Liam, convinced their years-long relationship was indestructible. She had let him take her affection for granted. But he was never irreplaceable. Someone else had managed to fill the void effortlessly. The stranger from last night, for instance, who possessed boundless endurance. Chapter 2 Obsession Charlee said, "Hello. I'd like to check out." Distracted by a heated debate over the latest news on TV, the receptionists glanced up from their conversation. Their eyes widened as they recognized the woman from the video, forcing a slightly awkward smile. One receptionist looked back at the screen and then at Charlee, clearly captivated by the latter's striking appearance. Her eyes flicked briefly to Charlee's neck as she processed the latter's check-out. As Charlee drove home, she reflected on the curious glances she received from the receptionists. Curious, she pulled out a mirror. The hi*keys on her neck were hard to miss. She reached for her foundation, carefully covering the marks. Most of them were still visible, though. That man's stamina was truly remarkable. Their meeting had begun with a car accident and quickly turned into a night of carefree fun. The memory brought a soft laugh to her lips. Thirty minutes later, she steered her sports car into the driveway of the Sullivans' grand villa. At the same moment, a black Cayenne rolled in beside her. As the car door swung open, Liam gently assisted Stacey Sullivan out, treating her with utmost care. His gaze turned cold when he spotted Charlee. "Keep your troubles away from Stacey. We'll talk later." His composed manner brought back memories of him setting boundaries, like prohibiting her from eating ice cream during her periods or wearing skirts to school. There was a time she almost adored this aspect of Liam. Now, it only disgusted her. Facing him, she said, "This is good timing. I'm calling off our engagement." Under the sunlight, she rose elegantly, her perfect skin radiating, her beautiful face emitting a captivating charm. Liam was caught off guard and then noticed the marks on her neck; his eyes filled with anger immediately. Releasing Stacey's arm, he strode toward Charlee and seized her wrist with a grip that almost broke it. "Where were you last night? Who is responsible for this?" He resembled a husband who felt deceived. Oh, the irony. "Let go," Charlee said, her eyes cold. "All this time, I've treated you well, yet you've acted shamelessly. To think you'd let another man's l*ps on your neck!" Liam refused to believe Charlee could betray him like this. He was convinced she'd asked someone to make those marks just to agitate him. Trapped in his grasp, Charlee flashed a mischievous smile. "Oh, it wasn't just my neck. His k*sses covered me completely." Realizing Charlee had seen the video, Liam's hold inadvertently weakened. "There's a reason for this. Please, don't let this hurt Stacey." He was aware of the video then. He certainly knew how to keep the excitement alive in the b*droom. Charlee could no longer hold back her frustration and sl*pped him. "Charlee, what's going on?" Stacey cried out as she dashed forward, encircling Charlee's waist with her arms and forcibly pulling the latter back. "Liam means the world to me, blame me if you must. He treats you so well. How could you sl*p him?" Stacey's tearful plea was followed by a low, sinister chuckle. Stacey whispered, "So, what is it like to be left alone at your own engagement? I merely scratched my wrist, and Liam couldn't stop comforting me." A cold dread crept over Charlee, feeling like she was trapped by a venomous snake, urging her to shove Stacey away. The moment she touched Stacey's arm, Stacey screamed and tumbled to the ground, her wrist bl**ding through the bandage. "Charlee!" Liam, seething with anger, rushed to Stacey's aid. "You owe Stacey an apology, now!" "Don't be so harsh, Liam," Stacey said softly, holding onto Liam's hand as he pointed at Charlee, her voice tender yet pitiful. "This is on me; I shouldn't have let my feelings for you go so far. She's supposed to be your bride. It's natural for Charlee to be upset. I accept whatever comes." Her act of pity managed to melt Liam's heart. "Please, don't cry, Stacey," he said. Chapter 3 Totally Disappointed Charlee's gaze lingered on Liam and Stacey's display of affection, her tone biting as she sneered, "You do realize this is on you, right?" Liam's eyes darkened with fury, cutting toward her like a bl*de. "You've crossed a line, Charlee. Stacey is your sister. She almost died, and you still feel the need to antagonize her?" "Sister?" Charlee's laugh was as icy as her stare. "You mean the one who s*duced her sister's fiance?" "You..." Liam's anger simmered as he steadied Stacey, leading her toward the Sullivan estate. As they neared Charlee, he turned sharply and barked, "Wait for me at the door." He spoke with the authority of someone who expected to be obeyed, confident in her usual compliance. But instead, Charlee strode past him without a second glance, her red dress flowing behind her. With her sleek black heels clicking against the pavement and her crimson lips curved in disdain, she exuded an untamed elegance, like a predator that couldn't be tamed. "This is my house," she said coolly, throwing the words over her shoulder. "You don't get to dictate what I do." Liam froze, startled by her defiance, his eyes glued to her retreating figure. Something about her felt different--unfamiliar. "Liam..." Stacey's soft, delicate voice rang out beside him, pulling him back to reality. His voice grew gentler. "That's just her way. Don't mind her. I'll handle it later and make sure she doesn't trouble you again. Let's get you back to rest." Stacey's eyes welled up as she gripped his arm tightly, unwilling to let go. "You said you'd stay with me, Liam," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. Her plea struck a chord deep within him. He replied softly, "Of course, I will. You did all that because you cared so much for me. I'll stay by your side until you're well again." Meanwhile, Charlee went upstairs, took a long shower, and changed before coming back to see Liam and Stacey finally entering the house together. Standing on the balcony, she nearly choked at the sight of them embracing, their affection on full display near the doorway. "Had enough of that yet?" she asked dryly, lounging on the sleek leather sofa, her legs elegantly crossed, exuding the air of a prowling feline. Suddenly, a sharp voice rang out from above. "What's your problem, Charlee? You're becoming impossible!" Her father, Keith Sullivan's stern expression darkened as he descended the stairs, trailed by Hannah Sullivan, his former wife. Hannah had settled in here, officially taking the title of Mrs. Sullivan in the eyes of others. Though dressed to impress, her harsh and hostile demeanor was impossible to miss. To Charlee, it was clear as day that, like Stacey, she was utterly hypocritical. Charlee didn't bother with an argument. Instead, she pulled out her phone, tapped a few times, and projected footage from the security camera onto the massive living room TV. The screen revealed Stacey and Liam locked in an intimate e*brace, their l*ps pressed together with a level of closeness that left nothing to the imagination. "Why would you do this, Charlee?" Stacey wailed, covering her face as though humiliated, then dashed upstairs, her sobs echoing through the halls. Anyone unaware of the full story might think Charlee had wronged her instead of exposing her. "Stacey, don't do anything reckless!" Hannah shouted, quickly following after her in a show of concern, making sure everyone remembered that Stacey was delicate and must not be upset. As expected, Keith lost his temper and stormed over to yank the TV's plug from the wall. "Charlee, are you determined to destroy this household?" Keith barked furiously. "Perhaps you should be asking Stacey that question," Charlee retorted, her disappointment cutting through her cold tone. She fixed him with an unyielding stare--one filled with bitterness, entirely void of warmth. Since losing her mother, she had come to understand just how fragile family bonds could be. For sixteen years, her mother had sacrificed everything to stand by Keith's side. Yet within a week of her passing, he had welcomed Hannah and Stacey into their home. How could he be so cruel? Chapter 4 Her Cruel Father Charlee's accusations deepened the anger etched on Keith's face. In a sharp tone, he said, "Stacey is your sister, and this is her home, too. She's bottled up her emotions, staying out of your way when it comes to Liam. She's reached a point of despair so profound it drove her to attempt to end her life. Yet, here you are, devoid of compassion and consumed by hostility. How can you be so unfeeling?" Liam, having shaken off the earlier awkwardness, finally spoke. "Mr. Sullivan, perhaps you should check on Stacey. I'll handle things with Charlee." Even now, Liam shielded Charlee, seemingly treating her with the same patience and indulgence as always. But his actions felt like repeated blows, each one more painful than the last. Charlee rose to her feet, her gaze icy and expression unreadable. "There's nothing left to discuss. The engagement is over." Liam countered, "Charlee, we've been together for years, and you've refused to get closer to me. I'm only human--I have needs too." His justification was absurd. Agreeing to share intimacy only after their engagement had somehow morphed into his excuse for betrayal. "So this is why you turned to Stacey?" A moment of silence followed. She couldn't help but let out a cold laugh. "If you're shameless enough to do this, at least have the decency to announce your plans to marry her. Stop skulking around like a coward. You're pathetic." Turning to leave, she felt Liam seize her wrist. "Are you insane?" He couldn't believe she had just called him a coward. She had never belittled him like this before. Charlee exhaled slowly before driving her foot into his shin. His pained cry echoed as she wrenched her hand free. "Try me, and you'll regret it," she warned, voice steady but threatening. At eighteen, Charlee had survived a harrowing kidnapping and near-r*pe attempt. The trauma had driven her to secretly train in kickboxing for four years. After winning a local championship, she had once jokingly told Liam she'd protect him as his personal bodyguard. Who would have thought he'd one day be the recipient of those skills? The irony was overwhelming. "You br*t! Get back here!" Keith stormed into the room, catching the tail end of their argument, his voice booming with fury. But Charlee didn't falter. She walked away with poise, not sparing him a glance. Now that the pretense was shattered, she was ready to move forward with her long-delayed plans. Liam clenched his jaw, suppressing the pain, waiting before attempting to stand. Keith waited for him to recover and then spoke. "Liam, I've indulged Charlee too much. About the marriage..." His meaning was unmistakable. He wanted to cancel the marriage arrangement between Charlee and Liam. Without the Todd family, Charlee would become obedient. And if he married Stacey to Liam, the Todd family would be his aide completely. Liam's frustration was evident. "Delay it. Stacey's health is fragile. Once she's better, I'll marry Charlee." Though Charlee had ended things, Liam didn't take her words seriously. At sixteen, she had hit rock bottom, relying entirely on him to pull her through. Her years of unwavering devotion were proof enough that she'd never truly leave him. โฆโฆ In the Sullivan Group's project department, Charlee sat in her office, focused on compiling reports. Keith hadn't stripped her of authority due to the family's partnership with the Todds. But now that she had called off the engagement, she needed to secure her position. At three in the afternoon, her assistant, Alexia Jenkins, burst into the office, knocking hastily before stepping inside, her face visibly drained of color. Trailing behind her, Stacey entered clad in a tailored light-gray suit, radiating an air of confidence and control. The meekness she displayed in front of Liam had vanished, replaced by an unrestrained sense of triumph. "Charlee, the board has voted to relieve you of your duties as project director. Starting today, I'll be stepping in to take over. All incomplete projects under your supervision will now fall to me. As for your reassignment..." Stacey's lips curled into a mocking smile as she tossed a blue folder onto the desk. "The newly established Green Biopharmaceuticals in the eastern suburbs needs someone to manage it. The tech is fully patented, and the production lines run seamlessly--your job will just be signing papers and killing time. See? Dad hasn't forgotten about you entirely." Chapter 5 Green Biopharmaceuticals The Sullivan Group owned four branches, and Green Biopharmaceuticals was the least promising of them all. Despite its grandiose name, it was nothing more than a basic contract manufacturing facility. Devoid of innovation or proprietary patents, it functioned solely as a production line, lacking any semblance of independence. Still, this company marked the genesis of the Sullivan Group's wealth, the hard-won achievement of Charlee's mother during her initial ventures into the industry. Charlee tapped her finger lightly on the document. "I'm the project director. Do you really think you can demote me to manage some rundown company? Dream on." Stacey remained composed, as though she had expected Charlee's resistance. "Dad said if you're unwilling to leave, you can stay in the project department, but under me as your supervisor. You'll have to take my orders." Charlee let out a sharp, derisive laugh. Her disdain was written all over her elegant face. "Mr. Sullivan knows you're useless, so he's forcing me to stay and clean up after you. How pathetic." The office door stood wide open, intentionally so. Stacey had planned for the entire project team to witness Charlee's humiliation. Yet, the plan backfired. With an air of confidence, Stacey squared her shoulders and lifted her chin. "I was appointed as director by the board. It was a unanimous decision. At the year-end meeting, I'll lead this team in collecting our accolades. Just wait." Charlee clicked her tongue dismissively. "Stop puffing yourself up." Without another word, she made a call and put it on speaker. After a few rings, Keith answered, his authoritative tone filling the room. "With the tension between you and Liam, I have to make a decision. Sign the papers and head to the company. Don't stir up trouble. I have a strategy in mind." His tone was firm yet sounded almost considerate. Charlee's lips curled into a mocking smile. "Mr. Sullivan, I own eight percent of the shares. Don't I qualify as a stakeholder?" Keith was silent for a moment before replying begrudgingly, "If two-thirds of the shareholders agree, it's out of your hands." His message was clear... Charlee's voice didn't matter. Charlee arched an eyebrow and glanced at Stacey with a smirk. "Unanimous, you said?" Stacey flushed crimson, while whispers spread among the onlookers outside the office. Stacey's credibility was already in tatters before she even assumed her new role. Before Stacey could recover and respond, Charlee's tone turned icy. "I want ownership of the pharmaceutical plant. Draft a revised agreement and send it to me. Then I'll sign and step aside. Otherwise... I don't mind dragging us all down." Before Keith could protest, Charlee hung up. She understood Stacey's ambitions all too well, but after three years as project director, Charlee wasn't about to surrender without a fight. Besides, she was never a pushover. Keith couldn't afford to gamble with everything at stake. Thirty minutes later, the company transfer papers were delivered to her desk. Charlee reviewed them meticulously before signing without hesitation. As she prepared to leave, Stacey, now firmly seated in the director's chair, issued orders. "Other than personal belongings, you're not to take a single thing from this office. Alexia, check her items." Alexia, who owed her position to Charlee, hesitated. Her contract, however, was with the Sullivan Group. Sparing her the dilemma, Charlee opened her own bag and box. She turned to Stacey, holding up a small jewelry case, her strikingly clear eyes fixed on her rival. "These are the ring and bracelet Liam had custom-made for me. One of a kind. Want them?" Seeing Stacey's enraged expression, Charlee tossed the jewelry box into the trash with a casual motion and dusted off her hands. "Getting rid of j*nk feels amazing." As she exited, the sound of shattering cups erupted behind her. Charlee smiled to herself. Was Stacey already cracking? She'd need to hold out until those projects were under her control. That was when the real battle would begin. Charlee had underestimated Stacey's and Keith's pettiness. When she attempted to drive away, security halted her vehicle, asserting it was property of the Sullivan Group. Now acting as director of the pharmaceutical company, Charlee had lost her privilege to use this car since the company's split from the Sullivan Group. Exiting her sports car, she slipped on her sunglasses and glanced toward her office building. Despite the distance, she could distinctly make out Stacey on the floor of her office, gracefully enjoying a cup of coffee. In a daring move, Charlee gave Stacey the finger, then turned on her heel and walked off with her belongings to hail a nearby taxi. As she waited, a sleek black Maybach rolled to a stop before her. The door swung open automatically, revealing a man lounging comfortably, an amused expression playing across his refined features. "What a coincidence." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679583 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/30/25, 12:37 PM | 1738567628 | 1748626664 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/470687320_597912215931150_5965590530324771412_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CFNAqKIEzGgQ7kNvgHAjcIo&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYAasFUp7rzgxP_xF4Kt5p3jAdATDHZRgnYOdtAz5PFXDQ&oe=67A65B88 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679562 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/30/25, 12:41 PM | 1738567627 | 1748626862 | 2451 | nordastro.com | Learn more | VIDEO | Get Yours at 50% OFF + Free Shipping | https://nordastro.com/start?qz=na1 | 3.8747147444381E+14 | Nordastro | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465705732_1216697559387033_555272964435312704_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8pDndvfYUtUQ7kNvgHzP1im&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYC1MsI7UTDXgOHKR7E0pd7RI2UTPlrmEmLmH82n5kw1jA&oe=67A6583E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | The world's first 100% personalized ASTROLOGY BOOK for your self-growth & better relationships. โจCustom design with your name & birth chart on the cover โจPersonalized birth chart analysis โจLove & relationship insights โจPersonality & life path profile โจCareer & success guidance Take a 3-minute QUIZ to create your personalized Nordastro book! | Nordastro | 11599 | https://www.facebook.com/61562597241042/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679545 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/30/25, 12:42 PM | 1738567622 | 1748626959 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465714194_425933037018296_8855698865553053408_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3xWMgQrSiNYQ7kNvgGLZDQD&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYDMaGN_pAMArA3R_2W75fY5SnzQxuY5T1iNqVZpxbENZw&oe=67A6441F | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679664 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/4/25, 10:28 PM | 1738567633 | 1749094083 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | VIDEO | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/69002322-fb_contact-ena295_2-0131-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=7929461117168105&exdata=B7502C52902DDDD9985E7D78B2C2F2BE824CFCC068B74298 | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475504645_969869498383952_8348336066010037461_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yOYmVuEsdGAQ7kNvgHijkG9&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYA8D2-f9JSoalfPKTpn1JTwdm50WKQ5TZVzR8iqLpGLbw&oe=67A6405D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Her fiancรฉ cheated with her stepsister but still wanted to marry her. With a mocking smile, she called off the engagement. When the sc*mbag cornered her at her door, the elite tycoon appeared behind her--wrapped in nothing but a towel... ===== "Are you seeing someone? Spend a night with me, and I'll forget about the damage to my car," Charlee Sullivan suggested boldly. Charlee leaned casually against a gleaming crimson sports car, her fitted scarlet dress emphasizing her striking silhouette. Her delicate face, framed by soft waves of auburn hair, radiated sophistication. Her usually vibrant eyes now carried an icy detachment. She wasn't one to forgive easily; after discovering that Liam Todd, her fiance, dared to cheat on her, she craved a way to retaliate. The man, crouched over his battered motorcycle, straightened up at her words. Under the streetlight's glow, his rugged, undeniably magnetic features radiated an air of untamed charisma. "I'm single," he replied, his deep baritone carrying an irresistible allure. Charlee smirked, leaning in slightly. Her curls tumbled forward, dusted with vibrant remnants of party streamers. And this man--his sharp jawline, commanding presence, and effortless charm--was everything Liam wasn't. Liam, she mused, paled in comparison to this stranger, who seemed more than capable of meeting her every desire. "So did you agree?" The man's gaze flitted between the dented luxury vehicle and his wrecked motorcycle, a flicker of amusement in his expression. Her prized car, he thought, wasn't even worth the cost of his bike's handlebars. With a sly grin, he pulled her into his embrace, his tone teasing but firm. "Deal. I can't pay for your car repairs anyway. But don't complain later, little firecracker." With that, he swept her off her feet, carrying her with ease toward a nearby h*tel... When he said a whole night, he wasn't exaggerating. Charlee lost track of the moments she blacked out. Hours later, as she slipped back into her outfit, she couldn't summon the courage to meet his gaze. Her hoarse voice trembled with a warning as she said, "I have the crash footage. The moment I step out, we're nothing to each other. Stay silent." From behind her, his voice dripped with amusement, lazy yet sharp. "Interesting. I've kept a copy of that clip, too." Not catching his implication, Charlee grabbed her belongings and headed for the exit. Her shaky legs almost betrayed her, threatening to collapse beneath her. His deep chuckle echoed. "Sure you don't need more time to recover?" What a smug b**tard! She slammed the door behind her with every ounce of strength, nearly tempted to hit him with it. She missed the possessive glint in his eyes as he watched her leave. In the hotel lobby, the glowing screen of a television displayed breaking headlines. "A shocking revelation today--two elite families in Jurgh, set to unite through marriage, have faced public embarrassment. Sources claim the Todd heir stormed out of the ceremony, leaving the Sullivan heiress humiliated." A bystander muttered, "Rumor has it the groom's quite fond of his fiancee's half-sister. Now that her parents have rekindled their relationship, who knows? Maybe he'll end up with the other sibling." On the screen, Charlee appeared in a crimson gown, her hair dotted with celebratory confetti. The camera lingered on her frozen smile, magnifying the heartbreak behind it. Surprisingly, after her intense encounter, Charlee realized the pain from the breakup wasn't as sharp anymore. She had clung too tightly to Liam, convinced their years-long relationship was indestructible. She had let him take her affection for granted. But he was never irreplaceable. Someone else had managed to fill the void effortlessly. The stranger from last night, for instance, who possessed boundless endurance. Chapter 2 Obsession Charlee said, "Hello. I'd like to check out." Distracted by a heated debate over the latest news on TV, the receptionists glanced up from their conversation. Their eyes widened as they recognized the woman from the video, forcing a slightly awkward smile. One receptionist looked back at the screen and then at Charlee, clearly captivated by the latter's striking appearance. Her eyes flicked briefly to Charlee's neck as she processed the latter's check-out. As Charlee drove home, she reflected on the curious glances she received from the receptionists. Curious, she pulled out a mirror. The hi*keys on her neck were hard to miss. She reached for her foundation, carefully covering the marks. Most of them were still visible, though. That man's stamina was truly remarkable. Their meeting had begun with a car accident and quickly turned into a night of carefree fun. The memory brought a soft laugh to her lips. Thirty minutes later, she steered her sports car into the driveway of the Sullivans' grand villa. At the same moment, a black Cayenne rolled in beside her. As the car door swung open, Liam gently assisted Stacey Sullivan out, treating her with utmost care. His gaze turned cold when he spotted Charlee. "Keep your troubles away from Stacey. We'll talk later." His composed manner brought back memories of him setting boundaries, like prohibiting her from eating ice cream during her periods or wearing skirts to school. There was a time she almost adored this aspect of Liam. Now, it only disgusted her. Facing him, she said, "This is good timing. I'm calling off our engagement." Under the sunlight, she rose elegantly, her perfect skin radiating, her beautiful face emitting a captivating charm. Liam was caught off guard and then noticed the marks on her neck; his eyes filled with anger immediately. Releasing Stacey's arm, he strode toward Charlee and seized her wrist with a grip that almost broke it. "Where were you last night? Who is responsible for this?" He resembled a husband who felt deceived. Oh, the irony. "Let go," Charlee said, her eyes cold. "All this time, I've treated you well, yet you've acted shamelessly. To think you'd let another man's l*ps on your neck!" Liam refused to believe Charlee could betray him like this. He was convinced she'd asked someone to make those marks just to agitate him. Trapped in his grasp, Charlee flashed a mischievous smile. "Oh, it wasn't just my neck. His k*sses covered me completely." Realizing Charlee had seen the video, Liam's hold inadvertently weakened. "There's a reason for this. Please, don't let this hurt Stacey." He was aware of the video then. He certainly knew how to keep the excitement alive in the b*droom. Charlee could no longer hold back her frustration and sl*pped him. "Charlee, what's going on?" Stacey cried out as she dashed forward, encircling Charlee's waist with her arms and forcibly pulling the latter back. "Liam means the world to me, blame me if you must. He treats you so well. How could you sl*p him?" Stacey's tearful plea was followed by a low, sinister chuckle. Stacey whispered, "So, what is it like to be left alone at your own engagement? I merely scratched my wrist, and Liam couldn't stop comforting me." A cold dread crept over Charlee, feeling like she was trapped by a venomous snake, urging her to shove Stacey away. The moment she touched Stacey's arm, Stacey screamed and tumbled to the ground, her wrist bl**ding through the bandage. "Charlee!" Liam, seething with anger, rushed to Stacey's aid. "You owe Stacey an apology, now!" "Don't be so harsh, Liam," Stacey said softly, holding onto Liam's hand as he pointed at Charlee, her voice tender yet pitiful. "This is on me; I shouldn't have let my feelings for you go so far. She's supposed to be your bride. It's natural for Charlee to be upset. I accept whatever comes." Her act of pity managed to melt Liam's heart. "Please, don't cry, Stacey," he said. Chapter 3 Totally Disappointed Charlee's gaze lingered on Liam and Stacey's display of affection, her tone biting as she sneered, "You do realize this is on you, right?" Liam's eyes darkened with fury, cutting toward her like a bl*de. "You've crossed a line, Charlee. Stacey is your sister. She almost died, and you still feel the need to antagonize her?" "Sister?" Charlee's laugh was as icy as her stare. "You mean the one who s*duced her sister's fiance?" "You..." Liam's anger simmered as he steadied Stacey, leading her toward the Sullivan estate. As they neared Charlee, he turned sharply and barked, "Wait for me at the door." He spoke with the authority of someone who expected to be obeyed, confident in her usual compliance. But instead, Charlee strode past him without a second glance, her red dress flowing behind her. With her sleek black heels clicking against the pavement and her crimson lips curved in disdain, she exuded an untamed elegance, like a predator that couldn't be tamed. "This is my house," she said coolly, throwing the words over her shoulder. "You don't get to dictate what I do." Liam froze, startled by her defiance, his eyes glued to her retreating figure. Something about her felt different--unfamiliar. "Liam..." Stacey's soft, delicate voice rang out beside him, pulling him back to reality. His voice grew gentler. "That's just her way. Don't mind her. I'll handle it later and make sure she doesn't trouble you again. Let's get you back to rest." Stacey's eyes welled up as she gripped his arm tightly, unwilling to let go. "You said you'd stay with me, Liam," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. Her plea struck a chord deep within him. He replied softly, "Of course, I will. You did all that because you cared so much for me. I'll stay by your side until you're well again." Meanwhile, Charlee went upstairs, took a long shower, and changed before coming back to see Liam and Stacey finally entering the house together. Standing on the balcony, she nearly choked at the sight of them embracing, their affection on full display near the doorway. "Had enough of that yet?" she asked dryly, lounging on the sleek leather sofa, her legs elegantly crossed, exuding the air of a prowling feline. Suddenly, a sharp voice rang out from above. "What's your problem, Charlee? You're becoming impossible!" Her father, Keith Sullivan's stern expression darkened as he descended the stairs, trailed by Hannah Sullivan, his former wife. Hannah had settled in here, officially taking the title of Mrs. Sullivan in the eyes of others. Though dressed to impress, her harsh and hostile demeanor was impossible to miss. To Charlee, it was clear as day that, like Stacey, she was utterly hypocritical. Charlee didn't bother with an argument. Instead, she pulled out her phone, tapped a few times, and projected footage from the security camera onto the massive living room TV. The screen revealed Stacey and Liam locked in an intimate e*brace, their l*ps pressed together with a level of closeness that left nothing to the imagination. "Why would you do this, Charlee?" Stacey wailed, covering her face as though humiliated, then dashed upstairs, her sobs echoing through the halls. Anyone unaware of the full story might think Charlee had wronged her instead of exposing her. "Stacey, don't do anything reckless!" Hannah shouted, quickly following after her in a show of concern, making sure everyone remembered that Stacey was delicate and must not be upset. As expected, Keith lost his temper and stormed over to yank the TV's plug from the wall. "Charlee, are you determined to destroy this household?" Keith barked furiously. "Perhaps you should be asking Stacey that question," Charlee retorted, her disappointment cutting through her cold tone. She fixed him with an unyielding stare--one filled with bitterness, entirely void of warmth. Since losing her mother, she had come to understand just how fragile family bonds could be. For sixteen years, her mother had sacrificed everything to stand by Keith's side. Yet within a week of her passing, he had welcomed Hannah and Stacey into their home. How could he be so cruel? Chapter 4 Her Cruel Father Charlee's accusations deepened the anger etched on Keith's face. In a sharp tone, he said, "Stacey is your sister, and this is her home, too. She's bottled up her emotions, staying out of your way when it comes to Liam. She's reached a point of despair so profound it drove her to attempt to end her life. Yet, here you are, devoid of compassion and consumed by hostility. How can you be so unfeeling?" Liam, having shaken off the earlier awkwardness, finally spoke. "Mr. Sullivan, perhaps you should check on Stacey. I'll handle things with Charlee." Even now, Liam shielded Charlee, seemingly treating her with the same patience and indulgence as always. But his actions felt like repeated blows, each one more painful than the last. Charlee rose to her feet, her gaze icy and expression unreadable. "There's nothing left to discuss. The engagement is over." Liam countered, "Charlee, we've been together for years, and you've refused to get closer to me. I'm only human--I have needs too." His justification was absurd. Agreeing to share intimacy only after their engagement had somehow morphed into his excuse for betrayal. "So this is why you turned to Stacey?" A moment of silence followed. She couldn't help but let out a cold laugh. "If you're shameless enough to do this, at least have the decency to announce your plans to marry her. Stop skulking around like a coward. You're pathetic." Turning to leave, she felt Liam seize her wrist. "Are you insane?" He couldn't believe she had just called him a coward. She had never belittled him like this before. Charlee exhaled slowly before driving her foot into his shin. His pained cry echoed as she wrenched her hand free. "Try me, and you'll regret it," she warned, voice steady but threatening. At eighteen, Charlee had survived a harrowing kidnapping and near-r*pe attempt. The trauma had driven her to secretly train in kickboxing for four years. After winning a local championship, she had once jokingly told Liam she'd protect him as his personal bodyguard. Who would have thought he'd one day be the recipient of those skills? The irony was overwhelming. "You br*t! Get back here!" Keith stormed into the room, catching the tail end of their argument, his voice booming with fury. But Charlee didn't falter. She walked away with poise, not sparing him a glance. Now that the pretense was shattered, she was ready to move forward with her long-delayed plans. Liam clenched his jaw, suppressing the pain, waiting before attempting to stand. Keith waited for him to recover and then spoke. "Liam, I've indulged Charlee too much. About the marriage..." His meaning was unmistakable. He wanted to cancel the marriage arrangement between Charlee and Liam. Without the Todd family, Charlee would become obedient. And if he married Stacey to Liam, the Todd family would be his aide completely. Liam's frustration was evident. "Delay it. Stacey's health is fragile. Once she's better, I'll marry Charlee." Though Charlee had ended things, Liam didn't take her words seriously. At sixteen, she had hit rock bottom, relying entirely on him to pull her through. Her years of unwavering devotion were proof enough that she'd never truly leave him. โฆโฆ In the Sullivan Group's project department, Charlee sat in her office, focused on compiling reports. Keith hadn't stripped her of authority due to the family's partnership with the Todds. But now that she had called off the engagement, she needed to secure her position. At three in the afternoon, her assistant, Alexia Jenkins, burst into the office, knocking hastily before stepping inside, her face visibly drained of color. Trailing behind her, Stacey entered clad in a tailored light-gray suit, radiating an air of confidence and control. The meekness she displayed in front of Liam had vanished, replaced by an unrestrained sense of triumph. "Charlee, the board has voted to relieve you of your duties as project director. Starting today, I'll be stepping in to take over. All incomplete projects under your supervision will now fall to me. As for your reassignment..." Stacey's lips curled into a mocking smile as she tossed a blue folder onto the desk. "The newly established Green Biopharmaceuticals in the eastern suburbs needs someone to manage it. The tech is fully patented, and the production lines run seamlessly--your job will just be signing papers and killing time. See? Dad hasn't forgotten about you entirely." Chapter 5 Green Biopharmaceuticals The Sullivan Group owned four branches, and Green Biopharmaceuticals was the least promising of them all. Despite its grandiose name, it was nothing more than a basic contract manufacturing facility. Devoid of innovation or proprietary patents, it functioned solely as a production line, lacking any semblance of independence. Still, this company marked the genesis of the Sullivan Group's wealth, the hard-won achievement of Charlee's mother during her initial ventures into the industry. Charlee tapped her finger lightly on the document. "I'm the project director. Do you really think you can demote me to manage some rundown company? Dream on." Stacey remained composed, as though she had expected Charlee's resistance. "Dad said if you're unwilling to leave, you can stay in the project department, but under me as your supervisor. You'll have to take my orders." Charlee let out a sharp, derisive laugh. Her disdain was written all over her elegant face. "Mr. Sullivan knows you're useless, so he's forcing me to stay and clean up after you. How pathetic." The office door stood wide open, intentionally so. Stacey had planned for the entire project team to witness Charlee's humiliation. Yet, the plan backfired. With an air of confidence, Stacey squared her shoulders and lifted her chin. "I was appointed as director by the board. It was a unanimous decision. At the year-end meeting, I'll lead this team in collecting our accolades. Just wait." Charlee clicked her tongue dismissively. "Stop puffing yourself up." Without another word, she made a call and put it on speaker. After a few rings, Keith answered, his authoritative tone filling the room. "With the tension between you and Liam, I have to make a decision. Sign the papers and head to the company. Don't stir up trouble. I have a strategy in mind." His tone was firm yet sounded almost considerate. Charlee's lips curled into a mocking smile. "Mr. Sullivan, I own eight percent of the shares. Don't I qualify as a stakeholder?" Keith was silent for a moment before replying begrudgingly, "If two-thirds of the shareholders agree, it's out of your hands." His message was clear... Charlee's voice didn't matter. Charlee arched an eyebrow and glanced at Stacey with a smirk. "Unanimous, you said?" Stacey flushed crimson, while whispers spread among the onlookers outside the office. Stacey's credibility was already in tatters before she even assumed her new role. Before Stacey could recover and respond, Charlee's tone turned icy. "I want ownership of the pharmaceutical plant. Draft a revised agreement and send it to me. Then I'll sign and step aside. Otherwise... I don't mind dragging us all down." Before Keith could protest, Charlee hung up. She understood Stacey's ambitions all too well, but after three years as project director, Charlee wasn't about to surrender without a fight. Besides, she was never a pushover. Keith couldn't afford to gamble with everything at stake. Thirty minutes later, the company transfer papers were delivered to her desk. Charlee reviewed them meticulously before signing without hesitation. As she prepared to leave, Stacey, now firmly seated in the director's chair, issued orders. "Other than personal belongings, you're not to take a single thing from this office. Alexia, check her items." Alexia, who owed her position to Charlee, hesitated. Her contract, however, was with the Sullivan Group. Sparing her the dilemma, Charlee opened her own bag and box. She turned to Stacey, holding up a small jewelry case, her strikingly clear eyes fixed on her rival. "These are the ring and bracelet Liam had custom-made for me. One of a kind. Want them?" Seeing Stacey's enraged expression, Charlee tossed the jewelry box into the trash with a casual motion and dusted off her hands. "Getting rid of j*nk feels amazing." As she exited, the sound of shattering cups erupted behind her. Charlee smiled to herself. Was Stacey already cracking? She'd need to hold out until those projects were under her control. That was when the real battle would begin. Charlee had underestimated Stacey's and Keith's pettiness. When she attempted to drive away, security halted her vehicle, asserting it was property of the Sullivan Group. Now acting as director of the pharmaceutical company, Charlee had lost her privilege to use this car since the company's split from the Sullivan Group. Exiting her sports car, she slipped on her sunglasses and glanced toward her office building. Despite the distance, she could distinctly make out Stacey on the floor of her office, gracefully enjoying a cup of coffee. In a daring move, Charlee gave Stacey the finger, then turned on her heel and walked off with her belongings to hail a nearby taxi. As she waited, a sleek black Maybach rolled to a stop before her. The door swung open automatically, revealing a man lounging comfortably, an amused expression playing across his refined features. "What a coincidence." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679577 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/13/25, 4:08 AM | 1738567628 | 1749805688 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465598871_1125371035684355_2249988212672236328_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zWSFEn4-TGEQ7kNvgGKe5bq&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYC6BkLgpXDCN9o13Nd0lDFDXK_9dBNA9Do1BoabjRJj6A&oe=67A64B6E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679574 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567628 | 1745816686 | 2451 | www.italojewelry.com | Shop now | VIDEO | 4 Interest-free Payments | โ 60-day Return & One Year Warranty | https://www.italojewelry.com/?utm_source=facebook.com&utm_medium=fb-1130-02&utm_campaign=1211-17 | 5.6018496768178E+14 | Italo Jeweler | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/469945261_1042318777581673_2814177169244293526_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IDRExjSMxMQ7kNvgHReB85&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYCWgK0GYHyri6aF-5In2A1O3Gf2r9s4jlbC6UYYOLJqiw&oe=67A63A16 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | โ 50%off buy 1โฃ get 1โฃ & Any order 10% off Sitewide Christmas is here with huge saving options.๐ Shop Now๐:http://italojewelry.io/Cwo Free shipping & After Payโ๏ธ | Italo Jeweler | 20498 | https://www.facebook.com/italojeweler/ | 0 | SHOP_NOW | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679542 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/13/25, 9:34 AM | 1738567622 | 1749825300 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465790491_1694848161370673_2147163626124177661_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Rtr3RGwYSp8Q7kNvgHnAGI2&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYDzvaYUh4mOTpTbpjF61_v_6kHG2IAlO60_d29FkmTvLw&oe=67A64CC8 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679699 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/13/25, 6:37 PM | 1738567636 | 1749857826 | 2451 | mindway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Chronic Overthinking Test ๐ | https://mindway.app/start?qz=mw1&locale=EN_US | 2.1357182184276E+14 | Mindway | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471707238_605773095162095_2678238424911868944_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-7hWtdF4vVMQ7kNvgGxU199&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYDooAUL1Fi_Naf5IBSgggdLdT1KY3kORtd58jOGqr9abg&oe=67A65989 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | โจ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ Stop overthinking and start living today โจ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ ๐ฏ Boost confidence: Develop strategies for better decision making and self-esteem ๐ซ Eliminate negative thoughts: Learn how to identify and reduce toxic thought patterns โ Live in the present moment: Become calm, happy, and trust your intuition | Mindway | 19606 | https://www.facebook.com/61555945144541/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679646 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567632 | 1745816686 | 2451 | www.cdnjkfiw.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐Mga Anak ng Bilyonaryo๐ | https://www.cdnjkfiw.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=17755&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 3.8701676448549E+14 | Philip Spicy Reading | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474777071_914006614259681_4418476798268575767_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kCgkzqGvBU8Q7kNvgEteq22&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYBd9k4LY9IAXtbOXgXoVBjhf0bbQRQGay6t-KWIE0fvvg&oe=67A62EDE | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Madiing tinali ni Lorelei ang sintas ng luma niyang sapatos. Kalahating oras na lang ay magsisimula na ang klase niya ngunit hinihintay niya pa ang perang ibibigay ng kanyang Tita Agnes. Pang-huling taon na niya sa kolehiyo sa kursong business management. Gusto niya ay siya na ang mag-manage sa maliit na restaurant na iniwan ng yumao niyang ina na hawak ng Tita niya. Nagsalubong ang mga kilay niya at napasandal sa lumang sofa matapos marinig ang halinghing ng Tita niya mula sa kwarto. Sigurado siyang naroon na naman ang kinakasama nitong lalaki na si Richard. "Idiin mo, Richard!" dinig pa niyang sigaw ng Tita niya. Naiiling siyang pumikit. Maya-maya pa matatapos ang mga ito kaya naman tumayo na siya at kumatok sa pinto ng kwarto. "Tita, aalis na po ako." "Oh! Ode umalis kaโRichard!" muling hiyaw pa nito. "Iyong pera ko po," paalala niya pa rito ngunit daing at halinghing ang sagot nito. Paulit-ulit niyang kinatok ang pinto. Ang huling bigay nito ay limangdaan na pinagkasya niya ng isang linggo. Ayaw naman niyang basagin ang alkansyang baboy niya na mamiso lang ang laman. Nabitin sa ere ang pagkatok niya noong bumukas ang pinto. Niluwa no'n si Richard na pawisin, tanging basketball short ang suot, may hawak din itong libo-libong pera sa kamay. Namumutok ang mga braso nito at halos masakop ang pinto sa laki ng katawan. Mukha pa itong aburido noong tumingin sa kanya kaya napaatras siya. "Istorbo," parinig pa nito bago siya lagpasan. Napamaang siya at agad na pumasok sa kwarto. Huli niya pang nagsusuot pa lang ng t-shirt ang Tita niya. "Pera lang ang habol sa'yo ni Richard, Tita. Hiwalayan mo na iyon. Ang laki ng katawan no'n at kaya no'n ang magtrabahoโ" "Huwag kang makialam sa desisyon ko at hindi naman kita anak. Ikaw ang lumayas kung gusto mo. Bukas makalawa ay dito na titira si Richard. Mas maganda siguro kung humanap ka na ng ibang matitirahan at baka maging kaagaw pa kita sa kanya. Malaki ka na, kaya mo na ang sarili mo," pinal nitong sambit bago nagsuot ng underwear. Nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata niya, "Ginagatasan ka lang ng pera ni Richard, Titaโ" "Oh ayan, dalawang libo para matikom iyang bibig mo. Huling baon mo na iyan. Gagamitin ni Richard ang pera at magtatayo siya ng talyer." Mas lalo siyang nanlumo, "Hindi po pwede iyon. Pera ni Mama ang mga iyan. Kita sa restaurant niya, Tita. Huwag naman po kayong magpabilog kay Richard!" hindi niya mapigilang ilakas ang boses niya. Napalunok pa siya at natakot noong tumayo ito at lumapit sa kanya. Matalim na ang tingin nito. "Aba! Ano'ng pera ng Mama mo? Ilagay mo sa kokote mong matagal ng patay ang Mama mo at akin na ang restaurant na iyon. Pinag-aral at pinakain na kita. Nasa tamang edad ka na at kaya mo ng magtrabaho." Ilang beses pa nitong tinulak-tulak ang noo niya. "Hala sige, layas!" galit pa nitong sigaw bago siya itulak palabas ng pinto. Pinigil niya ang mga luha. Bandang huli ay hindi niya nakuha ang dalawang libong bigay nito. Nanghiram pa tuloy siya ng pera kay Nica. "Paano ang OJT mo? Titigil ka kailan huling taon na, Lei?" Nasapo niya ang noo at napasubsob sa mesa. Simula noong maging boyfriend ng Tita niya si Richard ay naging ganoon na ang Tita niya. "Ewan ko. Hindi ko na alam, Nica." Bumikig ang lalamunan niya sa badyang pag-iyak. Ni hindi niya pinansin ang grupong lumapit sa kanila. "Si Alicia," bulong pa sa kanya ni Nica. Si Alicia ang pinakasikat sa university nila. Mayaman, makinis, at madaming kakilala. Napasilip pa siya rito. Malaki ang ngiti nito, litaw ang naka-braces na ngipin. Ni hindi gumagalaw ang kulot na buhok na kulay blonde. Napaayos siya ng upo noong maglapag ito ng papel. "We're recruiting members for our sorority. You might want to join. Tonight is the initiation," magiliw nitong saad. Nangunot ang noo niya. Alam niyang hindi magandang sumali sa sorority ngunit noong mabasa niya ang mga benefits sa papel ay napalunok siya. "Free education and free allowance. Mayayaman lahat ng kasali at mga iilang negosyante. Nagpaparami lang kami ng miyembro. No fees, all free. Don't worry about the initiation, hindi naman iyon masakit. I would love to see both of you tonight." Kumindat pa ito bago umalis kasama ang dalawa pang alagad nito. "Maganda ang benefits nila, Lei. Solve ang problema mo kapag sumali tayo." Dumukwang ito at nilapit ang tainga sa kanya, "Tsaka alam mo ba, balita ko may kasapi silang Fraternity na puro gwapo," dagdag na bulong nito bago humagikhik. Wala siyang pakialam sa mga gwapo. Ang kagustuhan niyang makatapos ng kolehiyo ang nagtulak sa kanyang sumali. Makailang beses niya pang sinuklay ang malambot, tuwid, at maitim na hanggang balikat niyang buhok. Ginamit niya rin ang lipbalm upang malambot tingnan ang mga labi niya. Kaunting polbo lang ay sinuot na niya ang puting lumang bestida niyang abot hanggang tuhod at sandalyas na naging dirty white na. Kabado pa siya noong makarating sa hideout ng mga ito. Nasa pila na rin si Nica na agad kumaway sa kanya. Mabilis siyang lumapit. "Piliin raw natin iyong sarap sabi ni Alicia. Lahat kasi ng pumili ng hirap ay dinadala sa kabila at nakakatanggap ng hampas at palo," bulong nito. "Huh? Akala ko ba hindi masakit ang initiation nila?" "Hindi nga kapag sarap ang pinili mo. Basta, doon tayo sa turo ni Alicia. Ayokong magkapeklat, Lei." Napalunok siya at hindi mawari ang kaba sa dibdib niya. Makailang beses niya pang pinisil ang mga kamay. "Nica Fernandez!" sigaw ng lalaking tingin niya ay bouncer. Nagtaas ng kamay ang kaibigan niya bago humarap sa kanya. "Tandaan mo ang pipiliin mo, Lei. Iyon ang pipiliin ko. Magkita na lang tayo ulit bukas. Para sa pangarap, Lei!" pagpapasigla pa nito ngunit hindi niya masuklian ng ngiti. Siya na ang kasunod pagkatapos nito ngunit hindi na siya mapakali. May tatlo pang babae sa likod niya at dinig niyang pipiliin din ng mga ito ang pinapapili sa kanya ni Nica. "Lorelei Carpio!" Napaigtad siya sa malakas na sigaw ng bouncer. Muntik pa siyang madapa sa pagkataranta para lang makalapit. Tumuwid siya ng tayo. Pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin. Nangunot ang noo nito ngunit hindi nagkomento. Baka iniisip nitong bata siya sa height niyang 5'5 at balingkinitang katawan. "Sarap o hirap, Miss?" hindi nakangiting tanong nito. Napalunok siya at naumid yata ang dila pero kailangan niyang sumagot. Malaking benepisyo ang makukuha niya kapag natanggap siya sa sorority ni Alicia. "S-arap po," pikit-matang sagot niya. Inangat nito ang palad at agad na lumapit ang isa pang bouncer. "Nandiyan na ba si Phoenix?" tanong nito sa tinawag. "Kadarating lang pero nasa kwarto na." "Good. Ibigay mo 'yan sa kanya at ipaalala mong birhen 'yan," utos pa nito sa lalaki. Nangunot ang noo niya ngunit napapikit noong basta na lang siya lagyan ng blindfold sa mga mata. "B-akit po may blindfold?" kabadong tanong niya. "Hindi mo pwedeng makita ang makakasama mo. Bawal mong silipin o tanungin ang pangalan niya. Kapag ginawa mo iyon, madi-disqualify ka at hindi ka tatanggapin sa grupo," paalala pa ng bouncer na lumapit. Tinatak niya sa isip ang mga sinabi nito. Napasunod siya noong hilahin siya nito sa kung saan. Narinig niya rin ang tunog ng doorknob. Marahan pa siya nitong tinulak sa loob. Sumalubong sa kanya ang mabangong amoy ng lemon. Hindi niya mawari kung air freshener iyon o pabango. "New recruit?" tanong ng mababa at tila namamaos na boses. Nanindig pa ang mga balahibo niya sa bahagyang lamig sa boses nito. "Birhen 'yan. Ingatan mo." Nahigit niya ang hininga at kinabahan noong bitiwan na siya ng lalaki. Ramdam niya bigla ang tensyon sa paligid, maging ang mariing titig sa kanya. "I'm not gonna educate you. I hope you know why you are here and why you came here... willingly," seryosong sambit pa nito gamit ang namamaos nitong boses. Mabilis siyang tumango. Ang sabi sa kanya ay mabilis lang ang initiation kaya baka tanong nga lang iyon. "Uhm, I w-ant to finish my studies; that's why I came here," kabadong sagot niya ngunit malutong pagmumura ang narinig niya mula dito. Kasunod ay ang pagbukas ng pinto, "Inosente itong ni-recruit niyo! Get her outta here!" biglang sigaw nito sa labas. "You can't back out, Phoenix. Alam mo ang mangyayari sa kanya kapag pinaalis mo siya ngayon," madiing sagot ng kung sino. Marahas na buntong hininga ang narinig niya at malakas ding sinara ang pinto. Nagtaasan muli ang mga balahibo niya sa gulat noong humawak ang may kagaspangan nitong palad sa braso niya. "I hope you won't regret coming here," mabigat nitong bulong. Nanlamig siya noong umikot ang malaking braso nito sa bewang niya. Sa tantiya niya ay malaki din ang katawan nito lalo na noong lumapat ang balikat niya sa malapad nitong dibdib. Napaatras pa siya noong maramdaman ang daliri nitong binababa ang strap ng kanyang bestida. "A-nong gagawin mo?" Humakbang ito na kinaatras niya. Mahina siyang napasigaw sa pagbagsak niya sa kama. Gulat pa siya sa malaking katawan na biglang umibabaw sa kanya. Kumalabog ng husto ang puso nita. Sakop na sakop ng malaking katawan nito ang katawan niya. "S-andali!" Sinubukan niyang pigilan ang dibdib nito kahit hindi niya nakikita ngunit hinuli nito ang mga kamay niya at parehong pininid sa kama gamit ang isang palad nito. Bumigat ang paghinga niya lalo na noong sumiksik sa looban ng bestida niya ang malaking palad nito. "You should not have come here, Miss. Now you left me no choice but to take you," mabigat na bulong nito bago lumapat ang mga basang labi sa kanyang leeg. Lalo siyang nanlamig matapos matanto ang nangyayari. Hindi siya nakakilos. Ang naglalakabay nitong mainit na palad at ang malaking katawan nito sa itaas niya ay sapat na upang mangilid ang mga luha niya. "H-uwag po," nanginig pa ang boses niya. Marahas na bumuntong hininga ang lalaki, "You chose this. I tried my best to help you. The least thing I can do... is to be gentle," tila nahihirapang bulong nito. Napalunok siya kahit pa unti-unti nitong naalis ang mga saplot niya. Niyakap siya ng lamig ng aircon ngunit natakpan sa init ng malaking katawan nitong nasa itaas niya. Ang kabog ng dibdib niya ay walang kasing lakas sa pinaghalong kaba at kung ano man ang pinaparamdam nito sa kanya lalo noong dumausdos ito pababa... sa pagitan ng mga hita niya. Nanginig ang mga hita niya noong maramdaman ang mainit nitong paghinga't bibig nitong dumampi doon. Pinagpawisan siya nang malagkit kasabay ng kaba. Tanging impit na ungol at daing ang naibulalas niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang bibig nito doon. Napapabalikwas ang bewang niya ngunit hindi ito masipa. Para siyang na-estatwa noong magtagal ito doon hanggang sa mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa mga labi niya. Hinihingal pa siya sa paggapang nito muli sa itaas niya, pinaghiwalay ang mga hita niya, at pinwesto ang malaking katawan doon. Hindi siya nakaprotesta, naumid ang dila niya at hindi mahanap ang boses niya. Sunod na lang niyang namalayan ay ang pagtulo ng luha niya sa hapdi matapos mag-isa ang katawan nila. Namilipit siya sa sakit sa bawat galaw nito. Tila napunit na nito lahat ng nasa loob niya at kahit bagalan pa nito ay hiyaw ang kumakawala sa bibig niya. Pinirmi pa nito ang bewang niya. Nawalan na rin ng lakas ang mga kamay niya na kahit binitiwan nito ay hindi siya nakakilos para itulak ito. Namimigat ang paghinga niya at napapa-igik sa bawat madiing galaw nito sa loob niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang malaking katawan nitong gumagalaw sa kanyang itaas. Ni hindi niya alam kung paanong natapos ang pangyayaring iyon. Ang alam niya lang ay nakuha ng isang estrangherong lalaki ang puri niya. Paggising niya ay nananakit ang katawan niya. Takot pa siyang alisin ang blindfold ngunit kusa iyong nalaglag. Namulatan niya ang tahimik na kwarto, walang bakas na may nakasama siya ngunit ang dugo sa kobre kama ay patunay na wala na sa kanya ang iniingatan niya. Napasubsob siya sa kanyang tuhod at napahagulhol. Masyado siyang nagpadalos-dalos sa desisyon niya! Dapat ay inalam niya muna kung ano'ng klaseng sarap ang sinasabi ng mga ito! Kahit hirap maglakad ay pinilit niya ang sariling magbihis at umalis sa lugar na iyon. Wala na rin naman ang mga bouncer. Kahit si Nica ay hindi niya mahagilap. Sa sobrang pagod niya ay hindi na niya pinansin ang boyfriend ng Tita niya na nasa sala. Diretso siyang kwarto at binagsak ang katawan doon. Ang masama, nilagnat pa siya at napanaginipan ng ilang beses ang nangyari! Tatlong araw din siyang hindi nakapasok. Para siyang lutang na naglalakad noong pumasok na sa eskwela. Natulala pa siya sa nakangiti niyang kaibigan. "Bayad na ang tuition fee nating dalawa. Ang galing! May allowance pa, Lei!" Hagikhik nito bago pinakita ang cheque na may malaking halagang nakasulat. Napalunok siya. Ito na iyon. Ito na ang kapalit ng pagsali nila sa Sorority. Dapat bang kalimutan na lang niya ang nangyari sa kanila ng lalaki? "Ang balita ko ay mga Fraternity leader ang mga lalaking iyon, Lei. Hindi ko rin nakilala ang sa'kin," kwento pa ni Nica sa kanya. "H-indi ka ba umiyak? O nasaktan? Ako kasi pakiramdam ko nahati ang katawan ko," mahinang sambit niya. Namula ang mga pisngi nito, "Hindi ko una iyon kaya... sakto lang ang sakit." Napaawang ang mga labi niya sa kaibigan. Hindi pa mag-sink in sa kanya iyon. Wala naman siyang karapatan na husgahan ito kaya tumango na lang siya. "Wala bang meeting ang Sorority ngayon? Gusto kong magtanong kay Alicia. Baka pwede ko ng makita man lang iyong Phoenix na nakasama ko," imbis ay liko niya sa usapan. "Hindi tayo natanggap doon, Lei." "A-no? P-aanong hindi? Pero bayad na ang tuition fee base na rin sa benefits nila." Umiling ito, "Bayad iyon sa'tin, Lei. Hindi tayo kasapi ng grupo nila. Hindi tayo tinanggap." Para siyang nabingi sa narinig. Kumuyom ang kamao niya. Ang ibig sabihin ay inalay lang sila sa mga Fraternity leader na iyon. Gusto niyang magdamdam at ibalik ang perang natanggap ngunit hindi niya magawa lalo na noong mas maghigpit sa pera ang Tita Agnes niya. Naka-survive siya ng halos dalawang buwan sa allowance na bigay ng grupo. May natira pa ngunit hindi sasapat iyon kaya muli siyang kumakatok sa kwarto ng Tita niya. "Tita, hihingi po sana ako ng allowanceโ" Nabitin sa ere ang kamay niya at napatingala kay Richard noong buksan nito ang kwarto. Sumandal pa ito at humalukipkip. Napaatras siya noong bigla siya nitong pasadahan ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Nagtagal pa ang mga titig nito sa mga dibdib niya kaya nayakap niya ang sarili. "B-akit ka nandito? N-asaan si Tita Agnes?" Ngumisi ito at mas niluwangan ang pinto, "Dito na ako nakatira. May binili lang ang Tita mo. Kalahating oras pa iyon sa bayan. Baka gusto mong paligayahin muna kita." Napasinghap siya sa takot at umatras "Manyak!" galit niyang sigaw dito ngunit pilit nitong inabot ang siko niya at hinihila siya papasok sa kwarto. "Mabilis lang, Lei. Hindi malalaman ng Tita mo. Tayong dalawa langโ" "Bitiwan mo ko! Ayoko sa'yo!" Malakas niya itong sinampal. Nabitiwan siya nito at sinalo ang pisnging sinampal niya. "Punyeta ka, Lorelei! Bakit mo sinampal si Richard?!" biglang sigaw ng Tita niya mula sa likod kaya natulos siya sa kinatatayuan.p Nanginig siya sa kaba lalo na sa nanlilisik na tingin ng Tita niya. "T-ita, kasiโ" "Lumayas kang Punyeta ka! Palamunin ka na nga lang hindi ka pa marunong rumespeto!" Namilog ang mga mata niya noong bigla na lang siya nitong hilahin sa buhok at kaladkarin sa labas ng bahay. "T-ita, nagkakamali kayo! Sinubukan niya akong dalhin sa kwartoโ" "Wala akong pakialam! Napakalandi mo at pati boyfriend ko inaakit mo!" sigaw nito bago siya tinulak sa labas ng pinto. Muntik na siyang sumubsob sa lupa kun'di siya nakabalanse. Malakas pa nitong sinarado ang pinto ngunit bumalik para lang itapon sa pagmumukha niya ang iilang damit. "Lumayas ka at huwag kang babalik dito! Hindi ko kailangan ng malanding pamangkin!" sobrang lakas na sigaw nito na nakapagpalabas sa mga kapitbahay nila. Hiyang-hiya siya noong magbulungan ang mga iyon. Nayakap na lang niya ang mga damit at ang alkansyang baboy niyang tinapon nito sa kanyang paanan. Nagbagsakan ang mga luha niya. Gusto niyang ipaglaban na bahay iyon ng Mama niya ngunit alam niyang hindi na makikinig ang tiyahin niya. Tinago na lang niya ang mukha sa mga damit na hawak at mabilis na nagtawag ng tricycle. Nagpunta siya kila Nica at maging ito ay gigil na gigil sa tiyahin niya at kay Richard matapos niyang magkwento. "Ipabarangay mo, Lei. Wala siyang karapatan sa bahay na iyon. Sa'yo iyon! Pati ang negosyo ng Mama mo, sa'yo iyon! Pinagkaitan ka niya, lahat ng pera ng Mama mo siya ang nagwaldas. Hmp! Kumukulo ang dugo ko sa Tita Agnes mo!" Umakto pa itong manunugod ngunit pinigilan niya sa siko at umiling dito. "H-uwag na, Nica. Hindi ko na rin naman gugustuhing bumalik doon lalo na kung naroon si Richard." "Pero paano ka? Saan ka titira? Paano ang pag-aaral mo? Patapos na tayo, Lei. Bayad na rin ang tuition fee mo." Bumagsak ang tingin niya sa sahig at nanlabo ang mga mata. Hindi niya rin alam kung paano malalagpasan iyon pero pinilit niyang maghanap ng trabaho at apartment na maliit. Sakto lang sa kanya ngunit pagod na pagod nga lang siya bilang waitress ng eatery. Makailang beses tuloy siyang nakatulog sa klase at ang huli ay nahuli pa siya ng lalaking matandang professor niya. "Miss Carpio, alam mong bawal matulog sa klase ko." Napalunok siya at hindi mapigilan ang mga pumipikit na mga mata, "S-orry, Sir. Hindi na po mauulit." Umismid ito at lumayo ngunit noong makita siya na muling pumikit ay galit na siya nitong pinalabas. Nanghihina tuloy siyang napakapit sa pader ng hallway. Naghabol ng paghinga at pakiramdam niya ay umiikot ang paligid niya. Isang hakbang pa ay alam niyang sinakop na siya ng dilim. Noong magising ay nasa tabi na niya si Nica na mukhang kinabahan. Mabilis pa itong umalalay noong pilitin niyang umupo. "Ano'ng nangyari? Tsaka bakit ako nasa clinic, Nica?" Natameme ito ngunit nangilid ang luha sa gilid ng mga mata. Binugso tuloy siya ng kaba at napatitig dito. "B-akit, Nica?" Suminghot ito, "B-untis ka, Lei." Tila nawalan siya ng paghinga sa narinig mula dito. Napalunok siya at nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata. "Hindi gumamit ng proteksyon ang nakasama mo sa initiation, Lei. Binuntis ka niya," sobrang hinang sambit nito. Bumagsak ang luha niya at nanginginig ang kamay na dumapo sa impis niyang tiyan. "Patakaran ng Fraternity nila na gumamit ng proteksyon, pero dahil buntis ka... sigurado akong hindi siya gumamit no'n," patuloy pa nitong paliwanag ngunit naba-blangko na ang isip niya lalo't hindi na niya alam ang sunod na gagawin sa buhay niya. "P-aano ko siya mahahanap, Nica? Paano na ako? Hindi ko pa kaya." Tuloy - tuloy na naglandas ang mga luha niya habang inaalala ang pangalan ng lalaki. "Phoenix. Tama, Phoenix ang pangalan niya, Nica. Hanapin na'tin. Itanong na'tin kay Alicia," pagsusumamo niya sa kaibigan ngunit umiling ito. "Phoenix is just a code name, Lei. Sigurado akong hindi rin siya kilala ni Alicia lalo na kung isa siya sa mga leader," sagot nito na nagpabagsak sa mga balikat niya. "Tingin ko, sinadya niyang buntisin ka," muling sambit nito na nagpakuyom sa kamao niya. FIVE YEARS LATER Para siyang pinutulan ng pakpak dahil sa nangyaring iyon sa buhay niya. Wala siyang choice noon kun'di tumigil sa pag-aaral at magpokus sa trabaho para may pera pagkapanganak niya. Sinubukan naman niyang hanapin ang lalaki, pati nga si Alicia ay ginulo niya ngunit bigla na lang itong naglaho na parang bula. Pati ang kaibigan niyang si Nica ay bigla ring nawala at hindi alam kung saan napunta kaya natakot siyang maghaluglog pa ng impormasyon. Ang tanging nalaman niya ay leader ng Alpha Omega Fraternity ang lalaking nakakuha sa pagkabirhen niya. Limang taon na ang lumipas ngunit hindi niya talaga makakalimutan ang nangyaring iyon lalo't dalawang supling ang pabaon sa kanya ng lalaki. "Mama, wait ka namin mamaya. Promise mo bibili po tayo ng toys?" Kumurap-kurap pa sa kanya ang biluging mga mata ng anak niyang babaeng si Odessy. Marahan siyang lumuhod at inayos ang pagkaka-pigtail ng buhok nito. "Promise! Huwag kang lalayo kay Achi ah? Makinig kay teacher," habilin niya dito bago marahang hinila din palapit ang anak niyang lalaking si Achilles. "Mama, iyong book. Isa na lang bilhin mo po, share na lang kami ni Ody," marahang paalala sa kanya ni Achilles. Pilit siyang ngumiti sa mga ito. Parehong nasa daycare ang dalawa. Pinipilit niyang maibigay lahat ng pangangailangan nila pero sobrang hirap lalo't hindi siya tapos ng kolehiyo at hindi makahanap ng trabahong mataas ang pasahod. "Hindi pwede, Achi. Kailangan tig-isa kayo. Doon kayo sasagot. Ako ng bahala. Bantayan mo ang kapatid mo. Baka makipag-away." Ginulo niya pa ang buhok ito at marahang kinurot ang hindi kalakihang pisngi. "Pwede naman ako sa papel lang sasagot, Mama," pilit nito na inilingan niya. Ayaw niya ng ganoon. Hindi niya ipagkakait ang magandang edukasyon sa mga anak niya. Hindi hangga't nabubuhay siya. "Si Mama na bahala. Ubusin niyo baon niyo. Okii?" Malawak na ngumiti si Ody sa kanya at humawak sa braso ng kapatid. Si Achi man ay pilit na ngumiti. "Mama, ingat!" sabay pang sigaw ng dalawa bago maglakad papasok sa classroom. Pinigilan niya ang naninikip na dibdib matapos tumama sa liwanag ng araw ang mga mata ng mga ito at masilayan kung paanong naging kayumanggi ang mga itim na mga mata ng mga ito. Ilang beses na niyang hinanap sa mga lalaki ang ganoong klase ng mata. Maitim kapag walang araw ngunit kulay kayumanggi kapag nasinagan. Hindi ganoon ang mga mata niya kaya sigurado siyang namana ng dalawa iyon sa mga ama ng mga ito. Hindi rin siya naniniwalang sinadya siyang buntisin ng lalaking iyon dahil hanggang ngayon, walang nagpapakilala para akuin ang mga anak niya. Bumuga siya ng hangin at agad na nagtungo sa opisina ng abogadong amo niya. Ngunit masamang balita ang bumungad sa kanya. "I'm really sorry, Lei. Ipapasara na ang firm. Sa bahay na muna magtatrabaho ang asawa ko at ako na muna ang sekretarya niya. Pasensya ka na. Huling sahod mo na 'to." Nilapit pa ni Misis Alvarez ang sobre sa kanya. Napalunok siya at napatitig doon. Dalawang taon na siyang sekretarya ni Mr. Alvarez at hindi naman lingid sa kaalamam niyang pabagsak na ang firm nito. Nilunok na lang niya ang bikig sa lalamunan niya. Sigurado siyang mahihirapan na naman siyang maghanap ng trabaho. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Umikot na rin sa isip niya ang mga bayarin niya. Simula sa renta sa bahay, sa kuryente, allowance ng kambal, at mga bayarin sa eskwela. "W-ala po ba kayong kilala na... pwede kong lipatan, Misis Alvarez?" Bumuntong hininga ang Ginang, "Tatawagan ko ang kakilala ko, Hija. Itatanong ko kung may alam siyang naghahanap ng sekretarya pero hindi ako nangangako. Tatawagan na lang kita." Bagsak ang balikat na umalis siya doon. Halos hindi siya makalunok matapos bilangin ang iilang libong sahod niya para sa buwan na iyon. Tubig nga lang ang binili niya sa convenience store habang nagtitingin - tingin sa diyaryo. Kahit ano'ng trabaho papatusin na niya kaysa walang trabaho sa loob ng ilang buwan. "Tanggal na naman?! Pang ilan na 'yan ngayong buwan. Ano bang gusto niya? Single? Walang single na babae ang papatol sa gusto ni Mr. Montanier โFine, Eman. Ako na ang maghahanap ng bago niyang sekretarya. Kainis!" Nagpantig ang tainga niya sa narinig at mabilis na napaangat ng tingin sa Ginang na aburidong binaba ang hawak na cellphone. Mabilis siyang tumayo noong akma itong lalabas sa convenience store. Nagulat ito noong pigilan niya sa braso. "Bakit, Hija?" Kumunot ang noo nito sa kanya. Sa tantiya niya ay nasa edad forty-five na ito base na rin sa iilang litaw na puting buhok. "N-aghahanap po kayo ng sekretarya?" kabadong tanong niya. Literal na pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Sa kaba niya ay nabitiwan niya ang braso nito. "May asawa ka?" Mabilis siyang umiling, "Wala po!" Tumango ito at nilahad ang kamay kaya mabilis niyang nilagay doon ang resume niya. Mabilis nitong pinasadahan ang papel bago pinasok sa bag nito. "Tanggap ka na. Sumama ka sa'kin." Walang pagdadalawang isip siyang sumama sa Ginang. Imbis na sa kumpanya ay sa malaki at modernong bahay siya dinala. Sa isang exclusive subdivision iyon. Babasagin ang dingding at kumikinang ang mga mamahaling mwebles ng bahay. Kulay abo at puti ang bahay kaya sigurado siyang lalaki ang magiging amo niya. "Ako si Melia, Hija. Pinaka-sekretarya ni Sir Hector. Bukod sa'kin, may isa pa siyang sekretarya, si Eman. Pareho kaming sa kumpanya at kailangan pa ng isa pang sekretarya ni Sir Hector. On-call at kung pwede ay stay-in." Natigilan siya sa sinabi nito, "Stay-in po?" Hindi pwede sa kanya ang trabahong ganoon lalo na kung hindi pwedeng dalhin ang mga anak niya. "Bawal ba, Hija? Kaya tinanong kita kung may asawa ka. Madalas na magtrabaho sa bahay si Hector. Workholic at umaabot ng madaling araw. Kailangan na may magremind sa kanya sa schedule at dapat niyang pirmahan. Hindi naman madalas na stay-in pero paglalaanan na kita ng kwarto dito. Wala ka naman din sigurong anak di ba? Gusto niya ay single, walang extra baggage at kaya ang trabaho. Sana naman ikaw na ang huli at magtatagal dito sa bahay niya," patuloy na paliwanag nito. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Kung ganoon hindi niya pwedeng sabihin na may kambal siyang anak. "Maglipat ka na ng iilang gamit mo. Pwede kang bumalik bukas ng umaga para pag-usapan ang sahod mo. Nasa event pa si Sir Hector at madaling araw pa babalik. Lahat ng gamit dito pwede mong gamitin. Kung masipag ka, linisin mo na rin, may dagdag sahod naman. Isabay mo na rin ang kwarto niya." "Hindi po ba nakakatakot si Sir Hector?" Natigil ito sa tanong niya. Pagkaraan ay tinuro ang malaking portrait sa sala. Sinundan niya iyon ng tingin. Nagtaasaan ang mga balahibo niya sa klase ng tingin nito sa camera. Galit maging ang magkasalubong nitong makapal na kilay. Walang ngiti ang manipis na labi at mabalbas na panga. Halata ring matigas ang panga nito. At ang ilong, sobrang tangos! Maging ang buhok nitong nakasuklay palikod ay kumikinang sa larawan. Higit sa lahat, litaw ang matipunong dibdib nitong may makapal na balahibo. Sa larawan ay seryoso itong nag-aayos sa relong pambisig. "He's Hector Montanier and he's a perfectionist. So please, beware. Huwag kang gumawa ng bagay na ikakagalit niya kung ayaw mong mawalan agad ng trabaho, Hija," madiing paalala nito kaya napalunok siya. Kaya niya ba? Kaya niya bang pagsilbihan ang lalaking sa larawan pa lang ay mukhang papatay na? Paano pa sa personal? Baka hindi na siya makahinga kapag nakaharap ito. "Gusto ka niyang makausap." Gulat pa siya noong ilahad ni Miss Melia ang cellphone sa kanya. Nanginginig ang kamay niyang tinanggap iyon at nilagay sa tainga niya. Dinig niya ang mahinang musika sa background ngunit mas dinig niya ang mabibigat nitong paghinga. "Your name?" swabe at malamig ang boses nito kaya nahigit niya ang paghinga. "L-orelei Carpio po, Sir." Mahina ngunit marahas na paghinga ang narinig niya mula dito. "Lorelei, hmm," namamaos na sambit nito sa pangalan niya at hindi niya alam kung bakit naghatid iyon ng kakaibang init sa kaibuturan niya. Mabilis niyang binalik ang cellphone kay Miss Melia. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya at hindi kayang kausapin ang bagong boss niya. "B-abalik na lang po ako bukas," tarantang paalam niya. Kahit hindi pa ito um-oo ay lumabas na siya ng bahay na iyon. May mali sa pakiramdam niya. Bakit ganoon? Bakit pakiramdam niya buong boses nito ang humagod sa katawan niya? Iniisip niya pa kung narinig na ba niya iyon noon, pamilyar ngunit hindi niya maalala. "Lorelei, hmm." Muling umulit sa isipan niya ang pagtawag nito sa kanya. Naipagdikit niya ang mga hita lalo't tila namasa ang nasa pagitan ng mga iyon. Bumigat ang paghinga niya. Parang ayaw na niyang tanggapin ang trabaho lalo na kung araw - araw niyang makakasalamuha si Hector Montanier. Tulala tuloy siya noong sunduin ang kambal. Dinala niya pa sa malapit na bilihan ng laruan para na rin makalimutan niya ang pagtawag ni Sir Hector sa kanya. "Itong teddy bear na lang, Mama. Kapag barbie, ako lang ang maglalaro, kapag car naman, si Achi lang. Pero itong bear, pwede kaming share, Mama!" Masiglang tinaas pa ni Ody ang maliit na puting teddy bear. Nahabag siya sa mga ito. Hindi man lang niya maibili ng kahit tig-isang laruan. Hindi man lang niya mapakain sa sikat na fastfood ang mga anak. Mabilis siyang tumango ngunit umiwas ng tingin noong mapansin ang paninitig ni Achi sa kanya. Binayaran na lang niya ang teddy bear para makauwi na sila. Akala niya ay nakaligtas na siya sa mapanuring titig ng anak ngunit hindi. "Mama, iyong book. Kailangan na raw bilhin. Isa na lang, Mama. Kay Ody na lang. Kung hindi pwede, sa susunod na lang po ako mag-aral," kalmadong pagkausap ni Achi sa kanya. Parang pinilipit ang puso niya. Hindi niya hahayaan na mangyari iyon! Hindi deserve ng mga anak niya na maranasan ang nangyari sa kanya. "Hindi, Achi. Bibilhin natin bukas iyon. May bago na akong trabaho." Pinisil niya pa muli ang pisngi nito. Namula nga iyon lalo na't sobrang puti ng dalawa. Ang balak tuloy niyang pagtanggi na sa trabaho ay naudlot. Mas kailangan niya pala iyon. Bahala na kung ano'ng klaseng tao si Sir Hector, basta siya, trabaho lang ang gusto niya. Kinabukasan ay kinausap niya ang mga ito na gagabihin siya. Ayaw niyang iwanan pero hindi niya pwedeng isama. Kung malaki ang sahod niya ay kukuha siya ng bantay para sa mga ito. Kabado siyang bumalik sa malaking bahay. Sa harap pa lang ng pinto ay kumakalabog na ang dibdib niya. Kita na niya roon ang mamahaling sport car na wala kahapon. Nanginginig tuloy ang kamay niyang i-input ang code na pinadala pa sa mensahe ni Miss Melia upang mabuksan niya ang pinto. Pagbukas ay tumambad sa kanya ang pares ng mamahaling itim na sapatos. Pinulot niya iyon upang maitabi. Ngunit nabaling ang atensyon niya sa mahinang hilik sa sala. Kinakabahan siyang lumapit. Tumingkayad para lang masilip ang bagong boss niyang mahimbing ang tulog sa sofa. Halos hindi nga ito magkasya doon sa laki ng katawan. Ang isang binti nito ay nasa sahig habang ang isa ay nasa arm rest. Unan nito ang namumutok na braso at higit sa lahat ay bukas ang suot nitong puting longsleeve kaya't malaya niyang nasilayan ang makapal na balahibo sa matipuno nitong dibdib. Napalunok siya at imbis na lumiko ay umakyat ang tingin niya sa awang nitong mga labi. Namumula at nakasilip pa ang pantay-pantay na puting ngipin nito. Sa totoo lang, para itong modelo ng brief at toothpaste na lumabas sa magazine. Pati panga ay naninigas at sigurado siyang hindi basta-basta ang alaga nito sa ibaba. Ano bang pinag-iisip niya?! "Are you done checking me out, Miss?" namamaos pang bigkas nito bigla kaya napasinghap siya. Nabitin sa ere ang paghinga niya at namilog ang mga mata noong magkatitigan sila. Inaantok pa ang itim nitong mga mata at sobrang haba ng mga pilikmata kaya lalo siyang hindi nakapagsalita. "Close your mouth. Your lips look so delectable," inaantok nitong bigkas muli ngunit iba ang dating ng boses sa kanya kaya nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Ang boses nito ay parang kagagaling sa nakakapagod na ehersisyo sa kama. Magaspang na namamaos. "Close them... please. I might kiss you if you keep drooling on me. Do you want me... to take you here?" biglang tanong nito kaya namula lalo ang mga pisngi niya. Para siyang naeskandalo at hindi na makatingin dito ngunit nahuli niya ang pag-angat ng gilid ng labi nito. Hindi iyon ngiti kun'di maliit na ngisi. Lumitaw pa sa kanang gilid ng labi nito ang hindi kalalimang dimple. "Just kidding. Let's talk inside my office," bawi nito bago biglang bumangon. Mabilis siyang umiwas at napayuko noong basta na lang ito nag-alis ng butones ng longsleeve nito at swabe iyong hinubad. "Do I smell liquor?" mabigat na tanong nito kaya lang ay ayaw niyang lumingon dito kaya nanatili ang titig niya sa sahig. "I'm asking you. Amoy alak ba ako, Lorelei?" halos paos na naman ang boses nito kaya napapikit siya nang mariin. Iba talaga ang hagod ng boses nito sa katawan niya. Lahat ng balahibo niya ay nagtataasan at pati puson niya ay nakikiliti. Napalunok siya noong maramdaman ang paglapit nito. Pagmulat pa niya ay mabalahibong paa ang nakita niya sa harap ng mga paa niya. "N-o, Sir. H-indi po kayo amoy alak," kabadong sagot niya noong akma siya nitong hahawakan. Pag-angat ng tingin niya ay seryoso itong naninitig sa kanya. Salubong ang kilay. Hindi niya nga maitutok ang tingin sa mukha nito lalo't nakabalandra sa harap niya ang hubad nitong katawan. Bumigat ang paghinga niya at gusto na lang pindutin ang matitigas nitong muscles. "In my office," may awtoridad na nitong utos bago tumalikod. Napabuga siya ng hangin. Napapaypay sa sarili at hindi maiwasang manghina. Parang naubos ang lakas niya dito. Sinulyapan niya na lang ang matipuno nitong likod na pumasok sa isang pinto. Huminga siya nang malalim nang ilang beses at binalik ang mga sapatos sa sahig bago sumunod. Nakasandal na ito sa swivel chair at mukhang hinihintay siya. Nahuli niya agad ang mariing titig nito. "Here, Lorelei," malalim na sambit nito at marahang tinipa ang daliri nito sa mesa. Tahimik siyang lumapit kahit nahihiya. Na-conscious siya sa paninitig nito at pakiramdam niya ay hubad na siya sa isip nito. "I might require you to work 24/7, so make sure you don't have any extra baggage to attend to. Don't worry, I'll pay you triple or name your price," seryosong saad nito matapos iabot sa kanya ang blankong cheque na may pirma na nito. Napatitig siya doon ngunit hindi inasahan ang pagtayo nito at paglapit sa likod niya. Muli siyang naestatwa matapos maramdaman ang init ng paghinga nito sa bandang tainga at leeg niya. Hindi pa siya nakakilos noong lumapat sa bewang niya ang mainit at malaking palad nito. "S-ir," kabado niyang bigkas. "Single?" imbis ay tanong nito kaya mabilis siyang tumango. "Good. Birhen?" sunod na tanong nito kaya nanlaki ang mga mata niya. Hindi siya makasagot. Sasabihin ba niyang may anak na siya at kambal pa? Baka hindi siya nito tanggapin! "Y-es, Sir," pagsisinungaling niya. Marahas itong huminga na tila nahihirapan at nagpipigil. Napaangat nang bahagya ang balikat niya noong tumama doon ang matangos nitong ilong na tila inaamoy siya. Nakiliti pa siya sa mabalbas nitong pangang na humagod sa balat niya. "Perfect for me," halos dumikit pa ang labi nito sa paos nitong bulong kasabay ng pagdiin ng palad nito sa kanyang bewang na tila gusto na siyang sunggaban. Hindi niya alam na kanina pa niya pigil ang paghinga kung hindi lang ito lumayo. "Ikukuha kita ng dress. We'll attend an event," pinal na sambit nito kaya namilog ang mga mata niya. "Po? Sir, hindi po pwedeโ" Mas namilog ang mga niya noong tumama sa mga labi niya ang hintuturo nito upang patigilan siya. "Shhh. Sasama ka. You're now my secretary. Kung nasaan ako, doon ka." madiing sagot nito na akala mo ay hindi iyon big deal. Hindi siya makareklamo. Paglabas ng opisina nito ay gusto niyang ibalik ang cheque. Tinawagan niya rin si Miss Melia. "Hindi ka pwedeng umatras, Lorelei. Lagyan mo limang milyon iyang cheque niya para makabawi ka kung gusto mo. Kumpara sa mga nauna sa'yo, mas pabor si Sir Hector sa'yo. Mag-enjoy ka na lang sa event, Hija." Napirmi ang mga labi niya. Dapat pala pinag-isipan niyang mabuti. Napilitan tuloy siyang mag-ayos. Hindi pa siya kumportable sa baby blue cocktail dress na inorder nito. Yukong-yuko siya noong titigan nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya matapos masulyapan ang madiing titig nito. Para tuloy siyang hindi makahinga sa paninitig nito. Pakiramdam niya ay hinuhubaran na siya nito sa isip pa lang. "Chin up. You look... gorgeous," mahinang papuri nito. Sinubukan nitong hawakan ang bewang niya ngunit umiwas siya. Hilaw siyang ngumiti. "Alis na po tayo para agad makabalik, Sir." Nauna pa siya sa harap ng sasakyan nito. Nanliliit ang tingin nito noong pagbuksan siya ng pinto. Mali ba na umiwas dito? Boss niya ito at mali na magustuhan siya nito. Umikot ito sa driver seat noong makaupo na siya. Namroblema pa siya paano aayusin ang seatbelt ngunit nahigit niya ang hininga noong ito mismo ang umagaw sa seatbelt niya at nag-ayos no'n. Nasamyo niya tuloy ang matapang nitong pabango na may halong lemon. Akala pa niya ay ang air freshener pero hindi, amoy lemon talaga ito at masarap sa ilong. Maliit itong nangunguso noong paandarin ang sasakyan. Umiiwas siya ng tingin dito. Kumakalabog ang dibdib niya ngayong nasa isang sasakyan lang sila. Kinipkip niya pa ang bag sa mga hantad niyang hita. "How old are you, Lorelei?" biglang tanong nito na muntik magpatalon sa kanya sa upuan. "T-wenty five, Sir." "Hm. Never been touched? Never been kissed? And of course, never... Am I right?" senswal at bulgar nitong tanong. Tumiim bagang siya. Alam na niya ang kalibre nito kung bakit gusto nito ng Birhen. Sigurado siyang marami na rin itong naikama at delikado siya kung hindi siya mag-iingat. "I'm not comfortable with tbose questions, Sir," pag-amin niya. Hindi ito kumibo. Nasilip niya ang pagsasalubong ng kilay nito. Nakasandal na nga ang siko nito sa bintana at pinaglalaruan ng mga daliri nito ang ibabang labi nito. Isang kamay lang ang gamit nitong pagdrive. Nakarolyo ang asul na manggas ng longsleeve at ang lakas manampal ng kayamanan ng mamahaling relo nito. "Would you like to pretend to be my girlfriend?" biglang tanong nito sa kawalan. "Po?" Umigting ang panga nito, "My ex will be there with her new boytoy. Ayoko talagang magpunta na mag-isa, but I have to show up. It's business related. Ipapakilala kitang bagong girlfriend ko. Don't worry, I'll pay you for this," paliwanag nito. "Pero, Sirโ" "Just this once, Kitty. After this, you can be just my plain secretary." Napakurap siya at napalinga pa sa backseat kung sino ang tinawag nitong Kitty. "Cute, Kitten," nangingising sambit nito sa reaksyon niya. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Walanghiya! Siya pala ang pusa! Wala rin siyang nagawa noong pagdating nila sa event ay ito mismo ang nag-ayos sa braso niya pakapit sa braso nito. "Just stay beside me, Kitty. Smile as if you are head over heels for me," nakangising paalala nito. Sa dami ng mga bigating tao ay naging peke ang ngiti niya. Sa isang pabilog silang mesa napunta at naupo. Ramdam niya agad ang titig ng isang babae sa kanya na tila gusto siyang patumbahin. "Oh gosh, you got a new girl, Hector. I'm happy for you, Hijo. Hindi sana magloko katulad ng nauna," ani ng isang Ginang na bobo kay Sir Hector. Tumabingi ang ngiti niya habang ang babaeng nakatitig sa kanya ay umirap. Humilig pa ito sa braso ng lalaking katabi. "We should go home early, Babe. Bawal magpuyat ang buntis," dinig niyang bulong nito sa lalaki. Ramdam niya ang paninigas ng katawan ni Hector at kahit nakangiti ito sa mga kausap ay pansin naman niya ang panaka-nakang pag-igting ng panga nito. "Alejandro and I are having a baby boy, Mrs. Sarmiento," dinig niyang sagot ng babae matapos itong tanungin sa pinagbubuntis. Hindi na nga niya ito nilingon bagkus ay natutok ang titig niya kay Hector na naging sunod-sunod ang inom ng alak. Hindi siya nakatiis at inagaw ang brandy na hawak nito at ininom iyon. "What are you doing?" bulong na tanong nito. "Hindi ka pwedeng malasing. Magda-drive ka pa," madiing bulong niya pabalik. Lumapit ito at nagtaasan ang mga balahibo niya noong dumikit ang ilong nito sa leeg niya. "My Kitty is concern," namamaos nitong bulong kasabay pa ng pagdapo ng mainit nitong palad sa hita niya. Ginalaw niya ang hita ngunit dumiin ang kapit nito. Wala tuloy sa sariling napainom siya ng alak. "Crizaa, come back here!" Nabaling ang atensyon niya sa lalaking Alejandro yata ang pangalan. Tinatawag nito ang babaeng masama ang titig sa kanya na nag-walk out ngayon lang. Doon lang nawala sa hita niya ang palad ni Hector. Lumagok pa ito ng alak bago tumayo. "Comfort room," paalam nito pero ang titig ay nasa babaeng papalayo. Hindi niya alam kung bakit nadismaya siyang sinundan nito ang babae. Umiwas na lang siya ng tingin at tahimik na uminom. "Ngayon lang kita nakita, Hija. Gaano na kayo katagal ni Hector? Anim na buwan pa lang naman kasi silang hiwalay ni Crizaa," baling sa kanya ng Ginang kanina. Hilaw siyang napangiti, "Three months po," pagsisinungaling niya. Napatango ito. Mabuti na lang at hindi na ito nagtanong muli dahil hindi na niya alam ang isasagot. Nakuha niyang makaubos ng alak ay hindi na bumalik si Hector. Nahihilo na nga siya noong magpunta sa parking lot para doon ito hintayin. Saktong kapapadala niya ng mensahe sa kapitbahay niyang si Ria para tingnan ang kambal noong mamataan si Hector. Napatuwid siya ng tayo noong makita na itong papalapit. Halatang galit kaya hindi na siya nagtanong. Agad na lang siyang pumasok sa sasakyan noong patunugin nito. Maging sa biyahe ay ramdam niya ang galit nito sa hindi malamang dahilan. Madiin ang hawak nito sa manibela. Isa lang ang sigurado niya. Nakausap nito si Crizaa at tiyak na nabigo ito lalo't noong pagdating nila sa bahay nito ay kitang-kita niya ang bumagsak na luha sa gilid ng mga mata nito. Nahabag siya dito, "Sirโ" "Go home, or if you want, you can sleep in one of the guestrooms. Thank you for today, Lorelei," pagtataboy nito sa kanya. Hindi niya alam kung dahil lang sa kalasingan kaya hindi niya ito maiwan. Naaawa siya rito. Agad siyang kumuha ng tissue, lumuhod sa upuan at inabot ang pisngi nito. Pareho pa silang natigilan noong hawakan nito ang kamay niya. "Don't. I'm not weak," pamimilit nito. Naamoy niya ang brandy sa hininga nito at sa malamang ay pareho lang silang may tama ng alak. Napalunok siya noong matitigan ang mga mata nitong dumilim. Balewala niyang pinunasan muli ang pisngi nito ngunit muli nitong pinigilan ang kamay niya. "S-irโ" "If you keep doing that, sa kama tayo babagsak. Umuwi ka bago pa magbago ang isip ko at ipinid ka sa kama," pagbabanta nito. May choice siya, pinapatakas siya nito pero ang katawan niya ay ayaw kumilos. Baka dahil lasing siya. "Pagbilang ko ng lima, lumabas ka na ng sasakyan. I have no mercy when it comes to bed, Kitten," mabigat na bulong nito. Nanuyo ang lalamunan niya at mas lalong hindi nakakilos. "One," pagsisimula nito, nagsimula rin ang mainit nitong palad na umakyat sa hita niya. "Two, get out, Kitty," sobrang paos na sambit na nito habang ang kamay ay nahanap ang garter ng underwear niya. "P-ero, Sirโ" "Five. Pagmumura pa nito bago hatakin ang bewang niya at siilin siya ng halik. Mabilis nitong hinila ang bewang niya at pinaupo siya sa kandungan nito. Nahatak niya ang longsleeve nito matapos nitong ipasok ang dila sa bibig niya habang ang palad nito ay nahatak paalis ang underwear niya. Nahanap ng palad nito ang pagkababae niya at diniin ang daliri doon na kinasinghap niya. Hindi siya makasabay sa halik nito. Naliliyo siya maging sa paghagod ng mga daliri nito sa pagkababae niya. Nanigas ang mga tuhod niya sa kiliti sa puson niya at pamamasa. Hindi siya makahinga nang maayos. Inayos ng isang palad nito ang mga hita niya at pinwesto sa bawat gilid nito. Marahan itong dumukwang at halos isandal siya sa manibela masiil lang siya ng halik muli. Tuluyan na siyang hindi nakasagot ng halik matapos naging mabilis ang hagod ng mga daliri nito sa kanyang ibaba. Napapasinghap siya at ang maiksing katinuhan sa utak niya ay nasakop na ng impluwensya ng alak. "Ahh!" mahinang halinghing niya noong bumaba ang mga labi nito sa panga niya. "I'm giving you another chance to run. Run, Lorelei," udyok na bulong nito kahit pa binababa na nito ang zipper ng dress na suot niya. Napapikit siya. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya sa sobrang init. Bumakas sa mukha niya ang bahagyang ngiwi noong dumausdos papasok ang isang daliri nito. "Not running away? Baka di ka na makalakad bukas. I'm telling you, I'm big," paos at mabigat muli nitong bulong na tila nagtitimpi. Hindi niya alam ngunit lalo siyang namasa sa boses nito. Doon nga lang nag-sink sa kanya na kapag natuloy sila, malalaman nitong hindi na siya Birhen. Mabilis siyang napamulat sa naisip. Balak niya sana itong itulak ngunit paghigit sa damit nito ang nagawa niya noong dumagdag ang daliri nito sa loob niya at sunod-sunod na umulos. "Lintik" hingal niyang pagmumura. Paano pa siya tatakbo kung ang titig nito sa kanya ay nanlalapa? Maalab at alam niyang hindi na ito mapipigilan. Nagawa nitong alisin ang bestida niya. Nailiyad niya pa ang dibdib ngunit agad na sinakop ng mainit nitong bibig ang isa at halos ubusin nito. Nahatak niya ang braso nito upang doon kumuha ng balanse. hubad na siya lahat habang ito ay kumpleto pa ang suot. Pati ang relo sa bisig nito ay naroon pa. "Uhhhh, S-ir!" hiyaw niya noong lalong bumilis ang mga daliri nito sa loob niya. Hindi niya una iyon pero may hapdi pa rin sa kabila ng sensasyong nararamdaman niya. Bumalik tuloy ang alaala niya kung paano nabuo ang kambal niyang anak. Kagaya ni Sir Hector ang lalaki, may kalakihan ang katawan. Ang pinagkaiba lang ay may rahas ang kilos ni Sir Hector. Naitaas niya ang tuhod noong mamilipit sa sarap ang puson niya. Mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa bibig niya matapos maramdaman ang pag-abot niya sa rurok. Hindi tumigil ang mga daliri nito sa pag-ulos ngunit pinakawalan ng bibig nito ang dibdib niya. Naghahabol siya ng hininga noong nilayuan nito ang leeg niya at dibdib. Wala sa sariling nakagat niya pa ang ibabang labi sa paghugot nito sa mga daliri nito. Gulantang nga lang siyang makitang sisubo nito ang mga iyon. "Sir!" pigil niya dito ngunit wala na, napapikit na ito sa pagsubo no'n. Agad pang ngumisi at bahagyang pumasada ang dila sa ibabang labi nito na tila hindi pa ito kuntento. "Addictive," sobrang paos na sambit nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Alam niyang may tama rin ito sa alak kaya nasabi iyon pero hiyang-hiya siya! Hindi pa siya nakababawi noong marinig ang pagbukas nito sa pinto. Napalunok siya at napakapit sa mga balikat nito noong buhatin siya sa ganoong ayos. Inikot pa nito ang mga hita niya sa bewang nito. "You're Birhen. This will hurt. Hindi pwede sa sasakyan. Saka na... kapag sanay ka na," namimigat nitong bulong na nagpatigil sa paghinga niya. Kumalabog ang dibdib niya. Dumiin ang kapit sa balikat nito noong pumasok ito sa bahay at iakyat siya sa kwarto. Marahan pa siya nitong binagsak sa kama ngunit mabilis na lumuhod sa sahig. Sumisinghap pa lang siya ng paghinga ay pinag-hiwalay na nito ang mga hita niya at agad na sinubsob ang bibig nito sa pagkababae niya. "Sir! Uhโohh!" Pinatigas agad nito ang dila at tinukso-tukso siya. Alam na alam nito ang gagawin. Nawala na nga sa isip niyang hindi pa siya nakapag-shave pero kung hagurin ng dila nito ang ibaba niya ay tila paboritong pagkain nito iyon. "Ahh!" Nailiyad niya ang katawan at naitaas ang bewang na mabilis nitong hinila upang mas maidiin ang bibig nito doon. Ang ngipin nito ay sumasabay kaya halos mahila na niya nang buo ang bedsheet sa nararamdamang init. Pinagpawisan na siya kahit pa malakas ang aircon sa kwarto nito. Hindi yata ito tumigil hangga't hindi naririnig ang mahabang ungol niya, senyales na muli niyang naabot ang langit. Hindi niya maisara ang bibig sa pagsimot nito doon. Kahit noong tumayo na ito ay nanghihina siya at hindi maisara ang mga hita niya. Maliit niyang minulat ang mga mata. Huli niya ang mainit nitong titig sa katawan niya habang nagtatanggal ng kasuotan. Pati mamahaling relo nito ay basta lang nito tinapon sa sofa. Ora mimso noong mahubad nito ang mamahaling boxer short ay gumapang ito sa itaas niya. "Ibuka ang iyong mga binti nang mas malawak, Kitty," senswal nitong utos. Kumakalabog lalo ang dibdib niya at nanunuyo ang lalamunan kahit pa sa hita pa lang niya dumikit ang naghuhumigting nitong sandata. Palad na mismo nito ang humagod sa mga hita niya at mas pinaghiwalay ang mga iyon. Napapikit siya noong tuluyang tumama ang sandata nito sa kaselanan niya. Paulit-ulit na humagod na tila tinutukso siya. Pati ang ilong at bibig nito ay panaka-nakang humalik sa leeg at panga niya na tila dinidistract siya nito. "Sir~" hirap niyang bulong at napakapit sa matigas nitong braso noong maramdaman ang dulo ng sandata nito. Tama ito! Malaki ito at duda siyang kakasya sa kanya. Baka muli lang siyang mapunit nito! Ang balak niyang pagtulak sana dito ay nauwi sa pagkapit sa braso nito noong pilitin nito ang pagpasok. Sumigid ang sakit sa kanya at halos magdugo ang labi sa pagkagat niya. Iyon ang pangalawang beses niya pero sa tagal na siguro ng panahon ay pakiramdam niya, unang beses pa lang niya iyon. Kita niyang umigting ang panga nito at tumalim ang tingin. Kinabahan siyang baka nahuli na siya nito pero nahanap nito ang mga palad niya at parehong pininid sa itaas ng ulo niya. Pinagsalikop nito ang mga kamay nila bago sinagad ang pagpasok na kinahiyaw niya. "Ahh!" Hindi niya ito mapalo, hindi niya mabawi ang mga nakapinid na kamay. Pinuno naman nito ng halik ang mukha niya. "Soon, the pain will fade away, Kitty," panunuyong bulong nito. Hindi na niya makilala ang sariling paghinga. Hinayaan siya nitong kumalma ngunit hindi rin ito nakatiis at nagsimulang umulos nang mabagal. Dinidiinan na lang niya ang kapit sa mga kamay nito kapag sinasagad nito nang buo sa loob niya. Dinig niya ang magaspang nitong ungol at tila nahihirapan ding bumayo sa loob niya. Para itong nagtitimpi sa mabagal na paggalaw. "H-indi ka gumamit ng goma, Sir," wala sa sariling sambit niya. "Doesn't matter. I will do withdrawal, don't worry," pagpapakalma nito. Ilang beses siyang lumunok. Ang balakang niya ay napapataas noong bumilis nang bahagya ang galaw nito. Malinaw sa pandinig niya ang pagsusumpungan ng mga kaselanan nila. Nangangalay ang mga hita niya sa pagkakahiwalay at halos lumubog sa kama sa laki ng katawan nito. "Ow!" malakas niyang hiyaw na hindi niya alam kung ilang beses niya naisigaw noong dumoble ang bilis nito. Para itomg may hinahabol at hindi magkamayaw. Ang kama nito ay tumutunog kasabay ng tunog ng kanilang mga katawan. Para itong nawala sa sarili at nagsunod-sunod ang pagbayo sa loob niya. Naghalo ang pawis nila at maging mga ungol. Napuno ang kwarto ng mga hiyaw niya. Nanghihina na siya noong maramdamang malapit na siya. Nagmadali rin ito at sunod sunod ang ulos hanggang sa magkapanabay silang mapaungol. Pinakawalan nito ang mga kamay niya kasabay ng mainit na likidong bumuhos sa loob niya. Parang tumigil ang tibok ng puso niya. Sa loob nito pinutok! Kinabahan siya. Hinihingal itong bumagsak sa itaas niya. "Sleep, Kitty," inaantok pa nitong bulong. Nataranta siya at gusto itong itulak ngunit napakalaki nito. Sumiksik pa ito sa dibdib niya at wala yatang pakialam kahit nasa loob pa niya ang sandata nito! "Sir, uuwi po ako," pilit niyang gising at tulak dito ngunit humigpit ang yakap nito sa bewang niya. "Later, stay still. Huwag kang gagalaw. Huwag mong gisingin," halos bulong na lang na sambit nito. Nanlamig siya sa tinutukoy nito. Pati tuloy paghinga niya ay napigilan niya huwag lang magising ang sandata nito. Para siyang timang na naghintay na humiwalay ito ngunit hindi niya rin namalayang nakatulog na siya. Paggising ay sikat ng araw ang tumama sa mga mata niya. Nasilaw siya at nahirapang magmulat ng mga mata. Masakit ang katawan niya, partikular ang pagkababae niya at mga hita. Doon nga lang din rumehistro sa kanya ang nangyari kagabi. "Punyeta!" napamura siya matapos matantong umaga na pero naroon pa rin siya sa kwarto ni Sir Hector. Mabilis niyang nilingon ang katabi ngunit wala na ito doon. Hindi na nga niya maalala kung ano'ng oras ito umalis sa itaas niya. Hihinga na sana siya nang maluwag kung hindi lang naramdaman ang madiing titig sa kanya na tumatagos sa balat niya. Napalunok siya at unti-unting napatingin sa harap niya. Sumikdo ang dibdib niya at nahila ang kumot. Naroon sa paanan niya si Sir Hector, nakaayos na ng business suit, nakapamulsa habang may hawak na baso ng brandy. Pinaghalong madiin at malamig na titig ang natanggap niya dito at noong liningon nito ang kama na walang bahid ng dugo, alam na niya agad ang nasa isip nito. "S-ir, m-agpapaliwanag po ako," sobrang kabang sambit niya lalo't tumalim ang titig nito at umigting ang panga. | Philip Spicy Reading | 83301 | https://www.facebook.com/61561349855790/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679724 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/13/25, 11:39 PM | 1738567643 | 1749875994 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get quote | IMAGE | Tree Removal: Starting at $249 | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474465211_984528673736096_3519543039578861413_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Op1N9h9ugb8Q7kNvgHctIuG&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYCBcxrKud3QuLnOgZ2xLKDjnJ438u0DhNB0MnJrnS6tgw&oe=67A62A1A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi, I'm Wayne, owner of Webbโs Tree Removal. ๐จ Dead, Dying or Oversized Trees can be extremely dangerous due to the high risk of branches - or the tree itself - falling. Sometimes trees obstruct views or prevent construction. ๐ช My team of technicians is here to assess your property, then safely remove unwanted trees. ๐ We're locally owned & dedicated to our community which is why we're offering tree removal for as low as $249. ๐ Proudly serving Tallahassee, Crawfordville, Midway, Woodville, Panacea & surrounding areas. Book your free quote! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679678 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/12/25, 5:06 AM | 1738567635 | 1749722793 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | VIDEO | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/69002322-fb_contact-ena295_2-0131-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=7929461117168105&exdata=B7502C52902DDDD97F1AC11296D9D977388C2A064DE70A94 | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475841010_1117511140063018_7087442061276928861_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J5_O0uJc_mwQ7kNvgGMy9B2&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYDbXPSiE2xPHHI8pSC_lhdFwv6LWW6FGehjNpvVFf7bkA&oe=67A632B8 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Her fiancรฉ cheated with her stepsister but still wanted to marry her. With a mocking smile, she called off the engagement. When the sc*mbag cornered her at her door, the elite tycoon appeared behind her--wrapped in nothing but a towel... ===== "Are you seeing someone? Spend a night with me, and I'll forget about the damage to my car," Charlee Sullivan suggested boldly. Charlee leaned casually against a gleaming crimson sports car, her fitted scarlet dress emphasizing her striking silhouette. Her delicate face, framed by soft waves of auburn hair, radiated sophistication. Her usually vibrant eyes now carried an icy detachment. She wasn't one to forgive easily; after discovering that Liam Todd, her fiance, dared to cheat on her, she craved a way to retaliate. The man, crouched over his battered motorcycle, straightened up at her words. Under the streetlight's glow, his rugged, undeniably magnetic features radiated an air of untamed charisma. "I'm single," he replied, his deep baritone carrying an irresistible allure. Charlee smirked, leaning in slightly. Her curls tumbled forward, dusted with vibrant remnants of party streamers. And this man--his sharp jawline, commanding presence, and effortless charm--was everything Liam wasn't. Liam, she mused, paled in comparison to this stranger, who seemed more than capable of meeting her every desire. "So did you agree?" The man's gaze flitted between the dented luxury vehicle and his wrecked motorcycle, a flicker of amusement in his expression. Her prized car, he thought, wasn't even worth the cost of his bike's handlebars. With a sly grin, he pulled her into his embrace, his tone teasing but firm. "Deal. I can't pay for your car repairs anyway. But don't complain later, little firecracker." With that, he swept her off her feet, carrying her with ease toward a nearby h*tel... When he said a whole night, he wasn't exaggerating. Charlee lost track of the moments she blacked out. Hours later, as she slipped back into her outfit, she couldn't summon the courage to meet his gaze. Her hoarse voice trembled with a warning as she said, "I have the crash footage. The moment I step out, we're nothing to each other. Stay silent." From behind her, his voice dripped with amusement, lazy yet sharp. "Interesting. I've kept a copy of that clip, too." Not catching his implication, Charlee grabbed her belongings and headed for the exit. Her shaky legs almost betrayed her, threatening to collapse beneath her. His deep chuckle echoed. "Sure you don't need more time to recover?" What a smug b**tard! She slammed the door behind her with every ounce of strength, nearly tempted to hit him with it. She missed the possessive glint in his eyes as he watched her leave. In the hotel lobby, the glowing screen of a television displayed breaking headlines. "A shocking revelation today--two elite families in Jurgh, set to unite through marriage, have faced public embarrassment. Sources claim the Todd heir stormed out of the ceremony, leaving the Sullivan heiress humiliated." A bystander muttered, "Rumor has it the groom's quite fond of his fiancee's half-sister. Now that her parents have rekindled their relationship, who knows? Maybe he'll end up with the other sibling." On the screen, Charlee appeared in a crimson gown, her hair dotted with celebratory confetti. The camera lingered on her frozen smile, magnifying the heartbreak behind it. Surprisingly, after her intense encounter, Charlee realized the pain from the breakup wasn't as sharp anymore. She had clung too tightly to Liam, convinced their years-long relationship was indestructible. She had let him take her affection for granted. But he was never irreplaceable. Someone else had managed to fill the void effortlessly. The stranger from last night, for instance, who possessed boundless endurance. Chapter 2 Obsession Charlee said, "Hello. I'd like to check out." Distracted by a heated debate over the latest news on TV, the receptionists glanced up from their conversation. Their eyes widened as they recognized the woman from the video, forcing a slightly awkward smile. One receptionist looked back at the screen and then at Charlee, clearly captivated by the latter's striking appearance. Her eyes flicked briefly to Charlee's neck as she processed the latter's check-out. As Charlee drove home, she reflected on the curious glances she received from the receptionists. Curious, she pulled out a mirror. The hi*keys on her neck were hard to miss. She reached for her foundation, carefully covering the marks. Most of them were still visible, though. That man's stamina was truly remarkable. Their meeting had begun with a car accident and quickly turned into a night of carefree fun. The memory brought a soft laugh to her lips. Thirty minutes later, she steered her sports car into the driveway of the Sullivans' grand villa. At the same moment, a black Cayenne rolled in beside her. As the car door swung open, Liam gently assisted Stacey Sullivan out, treating her with utmost care. His gaze turned cold when he spotted Charlee. "Keep your troubles away from Stacey. We'll talk later." His composed manner brought back memories of him setting boundaries, like prohibiting her from eating ice cream during her periods or wearing skirts to school. There was a time she almost adored this aspect of Liam. Now, it only disgusted her. Facing him, she said, "This is good timing. I'm calling off our engagement." Under the sunlight, she rose elegantly, her perfect skin radiating, her beautiful face emitting a captivating charm. Liam was caught off guard and then noticed the marks on her neck; his eyes filled with anger immediately. Releasing Stacey's arm, he strode toward Charlee and seized her wrist with a grip that almost broke it. "Where were you last night? Who is responsible for this?" He resembled a husband who felt deceived. Oh, the irony. "Let go," Charlee said, her eyes cold. "All this time, I've treated you well, yet you've acted shamelessly. To think you'd let another man's l*ps on your neck!" Liam refused to believe Charlee could betray him like this. He was convinced she'd asked someone to make those marks just to agitate him. Trapped in his grasp, Charlee flashed a mischievous smile. "Oh, it wasn't just my neck. His k*sses covered me completely." Realizing Charlee had seen the video, Liam's hold inadvertently weakened. "There's a reason for this. Please, don't let this hurt Stacey." He was aware of the video then. He certainly knew how to keep the excitement alive in the b*droom. Charlee could no longer hold back her frustration and sl*pped him. "Charlee, what's going on?" Stacey cried out as she dashed forward, encircling Charlee's waist with her arms and forcibly pulling the latter back. "Liam means the world to me, blame me if you must. He treats you so well. How could you sl*p him?" Stacey's tearful plea was followed by a low, sinister chuckle. Stacey whispered, "So, what is it like to be left alone at your own engagement? I merely scratched my wrist, and Liam couldn't stop comforting me." A cold dread crept over Charlee, feeling like she was trapped by a venomous snake, urging her to shove Stacey away. The moment she touched Stacey's arm, Stacey screamed and tumbled to the ground, her wrist bl**ding through the bandage. "Charlee!" Liam, seething with anger, rushed to Stacey's aid. "You owe Stacey an apology, now!" "Don't be so harsh, Liam," Stacey said softly, holding onto Liam's hand as he pointed at Charlee, her voice tender yet pitiful. "This is on me; I shouldn't have let my feelings for you go so far. She's supposed to be your bride. It's natural for Charlee to be upset. I accept whatever comes." Her act of pity managed to melt Liam's heart. "Please, don't cry, Stacey," he said. Chapter 3 Totally Disappointed Charlee's gaze lingered on Liam and Stacey's display of affection, her tone biting as she sneered, "You do realize this is on you, right?" Liam's eyes darkened with fury, cutting toward her like a bl*de. "You've crossed a line, Charlee. Stacey is your sister. She almost died, and you still feel the need to antagonize her?" "Sister?" Charlee's laugh was as icy as her stare. "You mean the one who s*duced her sister's fiance?" "You..." Liam's anger simmered as he steadied Stacey, leading her toward the Sullivan estate. As they neared Charlee, he turned sharply and barked, "Wait for me at the door." He spoke with the authority of someone who expected to be obeyed, confident in her usual compliance. But instead, Charlee strode past him without a second glance, her red dress flowing behind her. With her sleek black heels clicking against the pavement and her crimson lips curved in disdain, she exuded an untamed elegance, like a predator that couldn't be tamed. "This is my house," she said coolly, throwing the words over her shoulder. "You don't get to dictate what I do." Liam froze, startled by her defiance, his eyes glued to her retreating figure. Something about her felt different--unfamiliar. "Liam..." Stacey's soft, delicate voice rang out beside him, pulling him back to reality. His voice grew gentler. "That's just her way. Don't mind her. I'll handle it later and make sure she doesn't trouble you again. Let's get you back to rest." Stacey's eyes welled up as she gripped his arm tightly, unwilling to let go. "You said you'd stay with me, Liam," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. Her plea struck a chord deep within him. He replied softly, "Of course, I will. You did all that because you cared so much for me. I'll stay by your side until you're well again." Meanwhile, Charlee went upstairs, took a long shower, and changed before coming back to see Liam and Stacey finally entering the house together. Standing on the balcony, she nearly choked at the sight of them embracing, their affection on full display near the doorway. "Had enough of that yet?" she asked dryly, lounging on the sleek leather sofa, her legs elegantly crossed, exuding the air of a prowling feline. Suddenly, a sharp voice rang out from above. "What's your problem, Charlee? You're becoming impossible!" Her father, Keith Sullivan's stern expression darkened as he descended the stairs, trailed by Hannah Sullivan, his former wife. Hannah had settled in here, officially taking the title of Mrs. Sullivan in the eyes of others. Though dressed to impress, her harsh and hostile demeanor was impossible to miss. To Charlee, it was clear as day that, like Stacey, she was utterly hypocritical. Charlee didn't bother with an argument. Instead, she pulled out her phone, tapped a few times, and projected footage from the security camera onto the massive living room TV. The screen revealed Stacey and Liam locked in an intimate e*brace, their l*ps pressed together with a level of closeness that left nothing to the imagination. "Why would you do this, Charlee?" Stacey wailed, covering her face as though humiliated, then dashed upstairs, her sobs echoing through the halls. Anyone unaware of the full story might think Charlee had wronged her instead of exposing her. "Stacey, don't do anything reckless!" Hannah shouted, quickly following after her in a show of concern, making sure everyone remembered that Stacey was delicate and must not be upset. As expected, Keith lost his temper and stormed over to yank the TV's plug from the wall. "Charlee, are you determined to destroy this household?" Keith barked furiously. "Perhaps you should be asking Stacey that question," Charlee retorted, her disappointment cutting through her cold tone. She fixed him with an unyielding stare--one filled with bitterness, entirely void of warmth. Since losing her mother, she had come to understand just how fragile family bonds could be. For sixteen years, her mother had sacrificed everything to stand by Keith's side. Yet within a week of her passing, he had welcomed Hannah and Stacey into their home. How could he be so cruel? Chapter 4 Her Cruel Father Charlee's accusations deepened the anger etched on Keith's face. In a sharp tone, he said, "Stacey is your sister, and this is her home, too. She's bottled up her emotions, staying out of your way when it comes to Liam. She's reached a point of despair so profound it drove her to attempt to end her life. Yet, here you are, devoid of compassion and consumed by hostility. How can you be so unfeeling?" Liam, having shaken off the earlier awkwardness, finally spoke. "Mr. Sullivan, perhaps you should check on Stacey. I'll handle things with Charlee." Even now, Liam shielded Charlee, seemingly treating her with the same patience and indulgence as always. But his actions felt like repeated blows, each one more painful than the last. Charlee rose to her feet, her gaze icy and expression unreadable. "There's nothing left to discuss. The engagement is over." Liam countered, "Charlee, we've been together for years, and you've refused to get closer to me. I'm only human--I have needs too." His justification was absurd. Agreeing to share intimacy only after their engagement had somehow morphed into his excuse for betrayal. "So this is why you turned to Stacey?" A moment of silence followed. She couldn't help but let out a cold laugh. "If you're shameless enough to do this, at least have the decency to announce your plans to marry her. Stop skulking around like a coward. You're pathetic." Turning to leave, she felt Liam seize her wrist. "Are you insane?" He couldn't believe she had just called him a coward. She had never belittled him like this before. Charlee exhaled slowly before driving her foot into his shin. His pained cry echoed as she wrenched her hand free. "Try me, and you'll regret it," she warned, voice steady but threatening. At eighteen, Charlee had survived a harrowing kidnapping and near-r*pe attempt. The trauma had driven her to secretly train in kickboxing for four years. After winning a local championship, she had once jokingly told Liam she'd protect him as his personal bodyguard. Who would have thought he'd one day be the recipient of those skills? The irony was overwhelming. "You br*t! Get back here!" Keith stormed into the room, catching the tail end of their argument, his voice booming with fury. But Charlee didn't falter. She walked away with poise, not sparing him a glance. Now that the pretense was shattered, she was ready to move forward with her long-delayed plans. Liam clenched his jaw, suppressing the pain, waiting before attempting to stand. Keith waited for him to recover and then spoke. "Liam, I've indulged Charlee too much. About the marriage..." His meaning was unmistakable. He wanted to cancel the marriage arrangement between Charlee and Liam. Without the Todd family, Charlee would become obedient. And if he married Stacey to Liam, the Todd family would be his aide completely. Liam's frustration was evident. "Delay it. Stacey's health is fragile. Once she's better, I'll marry Charlee." Though Charlee had ended things, Liam didn't take her words seriously. At sixteen, she had hit rock bottom, relying entirely on him to pull her through. Her years of unwavering devotion were proof enough that she'd never truly leave him. โฆโฆ In the Sullivan Group's project department, Charlee sat in her office, focused on compiling reports. Keith hadn't stripped her of authority due to the family's partnership with the Todds. But now that she had called off the engagement, she needed to secure her position. At three in the afternoon, her assistant, Alexia Jenkins, burst into the office, knocking hastily before stepping inside, her face visibly drained of color. Trailing behind her, Stacey entered clad in a tailored light-gray suit, radiating an air of confidence and control. The meekness she displayed in front of Liam had vanished, replaced by an unrestrained sense of triumph. "Charlee, the board has voted to relieve you of your duties as project director. Starting today, I'll be stepping in to take over. All incomplete projects under your supervision will now fall to me. As for your reassignment..." Stacey's lips curled into a mocking smile as she tossed a blue folder onto the desk. "The newly established Green Biopharmaceuticals in the eastern suburbs needs someone to manage it. The tech is fully patented, and the production lines run seamlessly--your job will just be signing papers and killing time. See? Dad hasn't forgotten about you entirely." Chapter 5 Green Biopharmaceuticals The Sullivan Group owned four branches, and Green Biopharmaceuticals was the least promising of them all. Despite its grandiose name, it was nothing more than a basic contract manufacturing facility. Devoid of innovation or proprietary patents, it functioned solely as a production line, lacking any semblance of independence. Still, this company marked the genesis of the Sullivan Group's wealth, the hard-won achievement of Charlee's mother during her initial ventures into the industry. Charlee tapped her finger lightly on the document. "I'm the project director. Do you really think you can demote me to manage some rundown company? Dream on." Stacey remained composed, as though she had expected Charlee's resistance. "Dad said if you're unwilling to leave, you can stay in the project department, but under me as your supervisor. You'll have to take my orders." Charlee let out a sharp, derisive laugh. Her disdain was written all over her elegant face. "Mr. Sullivan knows you're useless, so he's forcing me to stay and clean up after you. How pathetic." The office door stood wide open, intentionally so. Stacey had planned for the entire project team to witness Charlee's humiliation. Yet, the plan backfired. With an air of confidence, Stacey squared her shoulders and lifted her chin. "I was appointed as director by the board. It was a unanimous decision. At the year-end meeting, I'll lead this team in collecting our accolades. Just wait." Charlee clicked her tongue dismissively. "Stop puffing yourself up." Without another word, she made a call and put it on speaker. After a few rings, Keith answered, his authoritative tone filling the room. "With the tension between you and Liam, I have to make a decision. Sign the papers and head to the company. Don't stir up trouble. I have a strategy in mind." His tone was firm yet sounded almost considerate. Charlee's lips curled into a mocking smile. "Mr. Sullivan, I own eight percent of the shares. Don't I qualify as a stakeholder?" Keith was silent for a moment before replying begrudgingly, "If two-thirds of the shareholders agree, it's out of your hands." His message was clear... Charlee's voice didn't matter. Charlee arched an eyebrow and glanced at Stacey with a smirk. "Unanimous, you said?" Stacey flushed crimson, while whispers spread among the onlookers outside the office. Stacey's credibility was already in tatters before she even assumed her new role. Before Stacey could recover and respond, Charlee's tone turned icy. "I want ownership of the pharmaceutical plant. Draft a revised agreement and send it to me. Then I'll sign and step aside. Otherwise... I don't mind dragging us all down." Before Keith could protest, Charlee hung up. She understood Stacey's ambitions all too well, but after three years as project director, Charlee wasn't about to surrender without a fight. Besides, she was never a pushover. Keith couldn't afford to gamble with everything at stake. Thirty minutes later, the company transfer papers were delivered to her desk. Charlee reviewed them meticulously before signing without hesitation. As she prepared to leave, Stacey, now firmly seated in the director's chair, issued orders. "Other than personal belongings, you're not to take a single thing from this office. Alexia, check her items." Alexia, who owed her position to Charlee, hesitated. Her contract, however, was with the Sullivan Group. Sparing her the dilemma, Charlee opened her own bag and box. She turned to Stacey, holding up a small jewelry case, her strikingly clear eyes fixed on her rival. "These are the ring and bracelet Liam had custom-made for me. One of a kind. Want them?" Seeing Stacey's enraged expression, Charlee tossed the jewelry box into the trash with a casual motion and dusted off her hands. "Getting rid of j*nk feels amazing." As she exited, the sound of shattering cups erupted behind her. Charlee smiled to herself. Was Stacey already cracking? She'd need to hold out until those projects were under her control. That was when the real battle would begin. Charlee had underestimated Stacey's and Keith's pettiness. When she attempted to drive away, security halted her vehicle, asserting it was property of the Sullivan Group. Now acting as director of the pharmaceutical company, Charlee had lost her privilege to use this car since the company's split from the Sullivan Group. Exiting her sports car, she slipped on her sunglasses and glanced toward her office building. Despite the distance, she could distinctly make out Stacey on the floor of her office, gracefully enjoying a cup of coffee. In a daring move, Charlee gave Stacey the finger, then turned on her heel and walked off with her belongings to hail a nearby taxi. As she waited, a sleek black Maybach rolled to a stop before her. The door swung open automatically, revealing a man lounging comfortably, an amused expression playing across his refined features. "What a coincidence." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679681 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/14/25, 1:35 AM | 1738567636 | 1749882930 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=7929461117168105&exdata=167C26038CE941839D583AC1AADE260BEB736D1A4558C560 | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476119282_1156938019277715_6836191781936546969_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AkVL42LPZIwQ7kNvgGs3vm9&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYA16NQbACgc0mx_cgcWSKWpsrvxFu6TEgRWeZS_yE0aPw&oe=67A6251C | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | After being released, her malicious stepsister threatened her with their mother's life and tried to send her to an older man. On her way to "sacrifice" herself, she unexpectedly met a mafia kingpin. She took the initiative to seduce him for a partnership. From then on, she turned the tablesโtearing apart the fake angel, slapping her stepmother, and refusing to be bullied again! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &10& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679800 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/3/25, 5:36 PM | 1738567647 | 1748990212 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Quote: Starting at $59 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473675886_916191013967879_3365421714850973688_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JPniZc2Fr_QQ7kNvgE3DnDm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYC58VLlMRarMbDt5ONT3JxJBvr0f80Vg4vk_A8oom22YA&oe=67A63719 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679801 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567647 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Quote: Starting at $59 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473675886_916191013967879_3365421714850973688_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JPniZc2Fr_QQ7kNvgE3DnDm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYC58VLlMRarMbDt5ONT3JxJBvr0f80Vg4vk_A8oom22YA&oe=67A63719 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679802 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/11/25, 7:09 PM | 1738567647 | 1749686977 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Quote: Starting at $59 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473675886_916191013967879_3365421714850973688_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JPniZc2Fr_QQ7kNvgE3DnDm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYC58VLlMRarMbDt5ONT3JxJBvr0f80Vg4vk_A8oom22YA&oe=67A63719 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679804 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/13/25, 7:38 PM | 1738567647 | 1749861484 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Quote: Starting at $59 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473675886_916191013967879_3365421714850973688_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JPniZc2Fr_QQ7kNvgE3DnDm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYC58VLlMRarMbDt5ONT3JxJBvr0f80Vg4vk_A8oom22YA&oe=67A63719 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679805 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/14/25, 12:01 AM | 1738567648 | 1749877306 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Quote: Starting at $59 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473675886_916191013967879_3365421714850973688_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JPniZc2Fr_QQ7kNvgE3DnDm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYC58VLlMRarMbDt5ONT3JxJBvr0f80Vg4vk_A8oom22YA&oe=67A63719 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679740 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/10/25, 11:18 PM | 1738567645 | 1749615531 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Quote: Starting at $59 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474060166_1330236698109906_7085573860794928411_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wn24fOUoqqgQ7kNvgGpahnX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYAJbj_EhlWJrblONvgocYbCJuNkjBKKt5b0UpuwAH9ovQ&oe=67A652FF | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679741 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/12/25, 4:05 PM | 1738567645 | 1749762324 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Quote: Starting at $59 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474060166_1330236698109906_7085573860794928411_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wn24fOUoqqgQ7kNvgGpahnX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYAJbj_EhlWJrblONvgocYbCJuNkjBKKt5b0UpuwAH9ovQ&oe=67A652FF | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679728 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/13/25, 2:25 AM | 1738567643 | 1749799555 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get quote | IMAGE | Junk Removal: Starting at $69 | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474632557_859898476144463_4404232973876831941_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CAyKuv0wiNYQ7kNvgHA6PXW&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYD23zkzf222eGIyx892txj3YN0mNFw-dtViq0p54O4KDQ&oe=67A659C7 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hey, I'm Montel, founder of All Out Junk Removal. For years, my team has been clearing out clutter & making spaces cleaner & more livable. ๐ We're deeply invested in the community & committed to responsible disposal & recycling. That's why we're offering junk removal for as low as $69! Proudly serving Boynton Beach, Pompano Beach, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach & the surrounding areas! Schedule your free estimate. Let's talk about clearing out your clutter! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679732 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/11/25, 6:55 PM | 1738567644 | 1749686113 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get quote | IMAGE | Junk Removal: Starting at $69 | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474571549_1341441096743616_6875768992041927798_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=86izdJCQwKMQ7kNvgHV7Iqt&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYBYxKkmeGGN5BoCWinCGtfk5lXAjIBuv_Hm7_ItkjCXYg&oe=67A62E9B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | It's more than just Junk Removal... ๐ Hi, I'm Montel, founder of All Out Junk Removal. ๐งโโ๏ธ Decluttering soothes anxiety & invites tranquility. ๐ A decluttered space eliminates distractions, enhancing productivity. ๐ช Organizing & reclaiming your space fosters confidence, elevating self-worth. Let's get rid of that junk together! Proudly serving Boynton Beach, Pompano Beach, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach & surrounding areas. Get Your Quote Now! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679738 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/14/25, 3:55 AM | 1738567644 | 1749891310 | 2451 | Get quote | VIDEO | Handyman Services: Starting at $39 | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474381970_9154560831247178_5095369379393987297_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7zKHk2ze6LMQ7kNvgHZbavM&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYC7FDRD5u-G7cZF0BB2-evuP0B_UakfDVVZutUgQS_MEQ&oe=67A63A24 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Hi, I'm Libien, founder of LB Handyman. โ๏ธ Do you have a nagging DIY project that you just can't finish? Leave it to us! For the past 20 years, our family & team have built this company through quality work, customer service & community involvement. ๐ก Proudly local, we're passionate about providing home improvement to our community. That's why we're offering our services for as low as $39. Fill out the form to get a free instant quote & allow us to earn your business. Serving Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Brandon, Largo & Surrounding Areas! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679753 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/12/25, 5:45 PM | 1738567645 | 1749768307 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Free Quote | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474551555_590073903803987_5134215720153981384_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mh8VoirrhZAQ7kNvgEajI4E&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYDlLsq_o7KxT1zz8VGc0-puZ8a1OrrCiGdxeajgHSC3Zw&oe=67A642FD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679754 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/12/25, 9:44 PM | 1738567645 | 1749782698 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Free Quote | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474551555_590073903803987_5134215720153981384_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mh8VoirrhZAQ7kNvgEajI4E&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYDlLsq_o7KxT1zz8VGc0-puZ8a1OrrCiGdxeajgHSC3Zw&oe=67A642FD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679751 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/12/25, 11:12 PM | 1738567645 | 1749787974 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Free Quote | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474551555_590073903803987_5134215720153981384_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mh8VoirrhZAQ7kNvgEajI4E&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYDlLsq_o7KxT1zz8VGc0-puZ8a1OrrCiGdxeajgHSC3Zw&oe=67A642FD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679752 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/13/25, 8:02 AM | 1738567645 | 1749819755 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Free Quote | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474551555_590073903803987_5134215720153981384_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mh8VoirrhZAQ7kNvgEajI4E&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYDlLsq_o7KxT1zz8VGc0-puZ8a1OrrCiGdxeajgHSC3Zw&oe=67A642FD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679761 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/10/25, 4:42 PM | 1738567645 | 1749591771 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Book Your Free Tree Removal Estimate | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474494095_1274309500348959_1264180393964163833_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b8Q5EH5cHS4Q7kNvgFM31t9&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYAWEH7bRZ-dFwC5JOwsogsVAWA9UU3KXpf1BabRR06LiA&oe=67A62588 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679760 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/12/25, 11:16 AM | 1738567645 | 1749745009 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Book Your Free Tree Removal Estimate | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474494095_1274309500348959_1264180393964163833_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b8Q5EH5cHS4Q7kNvgFM31t9&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYAWEH7bRZ-dFwC5JOwsogsVAWA9UU3KXpf1BabRR06LiA&oe=67A62588 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679763 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/12/25, 8:42 PM | 1738567646 | 1749778931 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Book Your Free Tree Removal Estimate | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474494095_1274309500348959_1264180393964163833_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b8Q5EH5cHS4Q7kNvgFM31t9&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYAWEH7bRZ-dFwC5JOwsogsVAWA9UU3KXpf1BabRR06LiA&oe=67A62588 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679762 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/13/25, 4:09 AM | 1738567645 | 1749805743 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Book Your Free Tree Removal Estimate | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474494095_1274309500348959_1264180393964163833_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b8Q5EH5cHS4Q7kNvgFM31t9&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYAWEH7bRZ-dFwC5JOwsogsVAWA9UU3KXpf1BabRR06LiA&oe=67A62588 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679759 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/14/25, 12:54 AM | 1738567645 | 1749880492 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Book Your Free Tree Removal Estimate | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474494095_1274309500348959_1264180393964163833_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b8Q5EH5cHS4Q7kNvgFM31t9&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYAWEH7bRZ-dFwC5JOwsogsVAWA9UU3KXpf1BabRR06LiA&oe=67A62588 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679768 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/3/25, 4:55 PM | 1738567646 | 1748987731 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Free Estimate | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474618559_8932847616763071_3146318129903851348_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xg3j87vEkGEQ7kNvgGTrvU-&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYDFoQqEufb_9ZQsgv-Nc9a8RsF9h2tHOYllpnut2yBNeg&oe=67A62E55 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679769 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567646 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Free Estimate | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474618559_8932847616763071_3146318129903851348_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xg3j87vEkGEQ7kNvgGTrvU-&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYDFoQqEufb_9ZQsgv-Nc9a8RsF9h2tHOYllpnut2yBNeg&oe=67A62E55 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679767 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567646 | 1745816686 | 2451 | Get quote | VIDEO | Junk Removal: Starting at $69 | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474613535_1145611656943311_3711262693520792450_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uX-vYnJgaGcQ7kNvgGAYm3e&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYBc0cInI9eV92CHy5IONc1tM1XzYdlW1F6h-vmwaYyoBA&oe=67A638B8 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | It's more than just Junk Removal... ๐ Hi, I'm Montel, founder of All Out Junk Removal. ๐งโโ๏ธ Decluttering soothes anxiety & invites tranquility. ๐ A decluttered space eliminates distractions, enhancing productivity. ๐ช Organizing & reclaiming your space fosters confidence, elevating self-worth. Let's get rid of that junk together! Proudly serving Boynton Beach, Pompano Beach, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach & surrounding areas. Get Your Quote Now! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679771 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567646 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Free Estimate | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474618559_8932847616763071_3146318129903851348_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xg3j87vEkGEQ7kNvgGTrvU-&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYDFoQqEufb_9ZQsgv-Nc9a8RsF9h2tHOYllpnut2yBNeg&oe=67A62E55 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679770 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567646 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Free Estimate | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474618559_8932847616763071_3146318129903851348_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xg3j87vEkGEQ7kNvgGTrvU-&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYDFoQqEufb_9ZQsgv-Nc9a8RsF9h2tHOYllpnut2yBNeg&oe=67A62E55 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679777 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/6/25, 4:08 AM | 1738567646 | 1749200906 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Quote | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473520118_1121489799432014_7512824829636945948_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xtGySDabue0Q7kNvgF0tg6p&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYAdSG0codg3sSE5Fm-CZUJUuYjM3ByM02BhWfQQHE4OnQ&oe=67A633FA | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679783 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/6/25, 4:59 AM | 1738567647 | 1749203971 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Quote | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474004431_1123900689463010_9215037287897539197_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=s6ZteLLw6u0Q7kNvgFFTXgd&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYAUwHiogGOyDSGtaxdCWW5jEs5SHW6efyvfZCbicwhlSg&oe=67A64CA3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679780 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/6/25, 6:12 PM | 1738567646 | 1749251578 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Quote | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474004431_1123900689463010_9215037287897539197_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=s6ZteLLw6u0Q7kNvgFFTXgd&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYAUwHiogGOyDSGtaxdCWW5jEs5SHW6efyvfZCbicwhlSg&oe=67A64CA3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679782 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567647 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Quote | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474004431_1123900689463010_9215037287897539197_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=s6ZteLLw6u0Q7kNvgFFTXgd&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYAUwHiogGOyDSGtaxdCWW5jEs5SHW6efyvfZCbicwhlSg&oe=67A64CA3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679778 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567646 | 1745816686 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Quote | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473520118_1121489799432014_7512824829636945948_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xtGySDabue0Q7kNvgF0tg6p&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYAdSG0codg3sSE5Fm-CZUJUuYjM3ByM02BhWfQQHE4OnQ&oe=67A633FA | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679781 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567646 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Quote | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474004431_1123900689463010_9215037287897539197_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=s6ZteLLw6u0Q7kNvgFFTXgd&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYAUwHiogGOyDSGtaxdCWW5jEs5SHW6efyvfZCbicwhlSg&oe=67A64CA3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679779 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567646 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Quote | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474004431_1123900689463010_9215037287897539197_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=s6ZteLLw6u0Q7kNvgFFTXgd&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYAUwHiogGOyDSGtaxdCWW5jEs5SHW6efyvfZCbicwhlSg&oe=67A64CA3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679776 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567646 | 1745816686 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Quote | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473520118_1121489799432014_7512824829636945948_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xtGySDabue0Q7kNvgF0tg6p&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYAdSG0codg3sSE5Fm-CZUJUuYjM3ByM02BhWfQQHE4OnQ&oe=67A633FA | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679792 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/12/25, 4:31 PM | 1738567647 | 1749763896 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Move In/Move Out Cleaning: Starting at $99 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473617554_1621494195127766_3143436062919977640_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Od69a_cr_qsQ7kNvgGfVZwC&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYAuaC06T1CidXg2_bISCLp48UkKP3kz4gKS6UIfPxJ-Gw&oe=67A64D39 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679790 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567647 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Move In/Move Out Cleaning: Starting at $99 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473617554_1621494195127766_3143436062919977640_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Od69a_cr_qsQ7kNvgGfVZwC&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYAuaC06T1CidXg2_bISCLp48UkKP3kz4gKS6UIfPxJ-Gw&oe=67A64D39 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679789 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567647 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Move In/Move Out Cleaning: Starting at $99 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473617554_1621494195127766_3143436062919977640_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Od69a_cr_qsQ7kNvgGfVZwC&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYAuaC06T1CidXg2_bISCLp48UkKP3kz4gKS6UIfPxJ-Gw&oe=67A64D39 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679806 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567648 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Quote: Starting at $59 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473675886_916191013967879_3365421714850973688_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JPniZc2Fr_QQ7kNvgE3DnDm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYC58VLlMRarMbDt5ONT3JxJBvr0f80Vg4vk_A8oom22YA&oe=67A63719 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679791 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567647 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Move In/Move Out Cleaning: Starting at $99 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473617554_1621494195127766_3143436062919977640_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Od69a_cr_qsQ7kNvgGfVZwC&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYAuaC06T1CidXg2_bISCLp48UkKP3kz4gKS6UIfPxJ-Gw&oe=67A64D39 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679796 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 9:09 PM | 1738567647 | 1749175790 | 2451 | okyoo.xyz | Learn more | VIDEO | โ An effective solution for prostatitis... | https://okyoo.xyz/2806.html | 1.0582824897597E+14 | Princess | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476133170_1155602206010066_7966967308247174927_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IXDjrUghFOAQ7kNvgFKE9t5&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYD4Ni0IrnEMFOXmz-Hq1rJKUuWWRfS7olKd5DvknVO05g&oe=67A63D66 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Princess | 0 | https://www.facebook.com/100086377038497/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679799 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/8/25, 3:17 AM | 1738567647 | 1749370678 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Quote: Starting at $59 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473675886_916191013967879_3365421714850973688_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JPniZc2Fr_QQ7kNvgE3DnDm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYC58VLlMRarMbDt5ONT3JxJBvr0f80Vg4vk_A8oom22YA&oe=67A63719 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679812 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/6/25, 11:43 AM | 1738567648 | 1749228195 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | IMAGE | House Cleaning starting at $49 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473321147_478352324998992_3210180565165456752_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZryHQ4EMegUQ7kNvgHKikMl&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYCgFRL5lTsOClau53wNOLUcGst6yD2Afda6UfVfcI4Geg&oe=67A645EA | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi I'm Martha, owner of Graceful Maids! My team of professional cleaners will prevent the mess before it starts! โ Consistent, High-Quality Cleaning โ Punctual Service, Every Time โ Trained, Professional Staff โ Open & Clear Communication โ Eco-Friendly Products We're proudly local & dedicated to serving our community. That's why we're offering cleaning services for as low as $49! Serving McKinney, Plano, Frisco, Richardson, Allen & Surrounding Areas! Get your free Instant Quote! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679822 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/6/25, 10:00 AM | 1738567648 | 1749222026 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | VIDEO | Junk Removal: Starting at $69 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473072451_1725001681379271_6060765252667029691_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=baTffhjLxvAQ7kNvgGDpNbx&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYD0JU2kOA9OlPeBJ-2Lp5uP8FvN2rQoxotrH9eFmdMylg&oe=67A62C63 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hey, I'm Byron, founder of Junk Amigos. For years, my team has been clearing out clutter & making spaces cleaner & more livable. ๐ We're deeply invested in the community & committed to responsible disposal & recycling. That's why we're offering junk removal for as low as $69! Proudly serving Charlotte, Concord, Gastonia, Huntersville, Kannapolis & the surrounding areas! Schedule your free estimate. Let's talk about clearing out your clutter! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679546 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/9/25, 10:12 PM | 1738567622 | 1749525158 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465654681_862973182694963_4384437846678066828_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LzbJOzadUpYQ7kNvgGuvtqI&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYD0lAULPkxeIa-Ve4h9oCaKUWadzfnNW5ZxZ77Wg-rI1Q&oe=67A64593 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679550 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/6/25, 12:29 AM | 1738567624 | 1749187778 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/467420556_551261834174244_2977659760004251380_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3rcZykvtil0Q7kNvgEeLfj4&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYDNdr1-QxnijHTnTRNxwo4wxMlstpSfIXxKqGYTFw11XQ&oe=67A6461B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679560 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/6/25, 5:31 AM | 1738567627 | 1749205878 | 2451 | nordastro.com | Learn more | IMAGE | Get Yours at 50% OFF + Free Shipping | https://nordastro.com/start?qz=na1&locale=EN_US | 3.8747147444381E+14 | Nordastro | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465784067_8745875502135287_8981175715750347968_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3Ko-Kt61LmoQ7kNvgFD-cY1&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYBn4jI03KPEo5eJoSRHvr_gIdb4nKbsrRtmlttIDg9AaA&oe=67A625FB | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | The world's first 100% personalized ASTROLOGY BOOK for your self-growth & better relationships. โจCustom design with your name & birth chart on the cover โจPersonalized birth chart analysis โจLove & relationship insights โจPersonality & life path profile โจCareer & success guidance Take a 3-minute QUIZ to create your personalized Nordastro book! | Nordastro | 11599 | https://www.facebook.com/61562597241042/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679568 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/6/25, 8:04 PM | 1738567627 | 1749258262 | 2451 | elfi.com | Learn More | DCO | Check Your Rate with ELFI | Click for details. | https://www.elfi.com/find-my-rate-1/private-student-loans-elfi/?utm_source=pai&utm_medium=facebook&utm_campaign=houston | 1.6117755424076E+15 | ELFI | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474951732_1704734527122535_1005779562309268744_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Pnf-JOjXoc0Q7kNvgEYowry&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYA5QZrSmZ1bUmxni_RbLI2Go23OG_1sfq-1oBHxH898ug&oe=67A63A50 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | At ELFI, we offer a variety of loan options to fit your needs, whether youโre a parent, student, or a postgraduate. Find the loan thatโs right for you, with personalized support and no fees or painful waiting. Itโs easy to get started. Preview your estimated rates and repayment options in minutes without commitment or impacting your credit score. See the ELFI difference for yourself today! | ELFI | 6035 | https://www.facebook.com/savewithelfi/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679575 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567628 | 1745816686 | 2451 | elfi.com | Learn More | DCO | Check Your Rate with ELFI | Click for details. | https://www.elfi.com/find-my-rate-1/private-student-loans-elfi/?utm_source=pai&utm_medium=facebook&utm_campaign=houston | 1.6117755424076E+15 | ELFI | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475276846_507478431907784_2070700596869398744_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gaBTCl35z0kQ7kNvgGAhEV9&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYDtPFTrRAiRuYr9PpbF-1nJPOY2xDII36ufI9fzOzTmLw&oe=67A63B61 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | At ELFI, we offer a variety of loan options to fit your needs, whether youโre a parent, student, or a postgraduate. Find the loan thatโs right for you, with personalized support and no fees or painful waiting. Itโs easy to get started. Preview your estimated rates and repayment options in minutes without commitment or impacting your credit score. See the ELFI difference for yourself today! | ELFI | 6035 | https://www.facebook.com/savewithelfi/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679573 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567627 | 1745816686 | 2451 | www.italojewelry.com | Shop now | VIDEO | best seller | โ Easy Return & One Year Warranty | https://www.italojewelry.com/?utm_source=facebook.com&utm_medium=fb-1130-02&utm_campaign=1211-17 | 5.6018496768178E+14 | Italo Jeweler | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/470218848_2259287924447665_164432554024143140_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HbRElTzYl-kQ7kNvgEicmtN&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYDYH8gnTd-54q0_ELDFZsV9mA8JUR-4JHBemNBZJLZqJg&oe=67A63A23 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Find Great Christmas Deals Shopping at italojewelry!๐โ๐ โ 50%off buy 1โฃ get 1โฃ Learn more:http://italojewelry.io/Cwo ๐Free shipping & Easy return๐ | Italo Jeweler | 20498 | https://www.facebook.com/italojeweler/ | 0 | SHOP_NOW | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679584 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 10:24 PM | 1738567628 | 1749180254 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/470194545_597717852807710_303490267519179194_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QMRXWWwocUMQ7kNvgGcvpqB&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYBAlY7Hr1vtYxgjnQ1M0FEvmnIqrQkIvcBiHnV2cNES_Q&oe=67A63EA4 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679588 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/6/25, 1:12 AM | 1738567628 | 1749190330 | 2451 | wwwedb.com | Learn more | IMAGE | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475392909_1307098720545242_8605129364566581005_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=f5DeytzRxEEQ7kNvgFTHndc&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYB4GwTjMM1nqCB1IwmhqhYbkEzwrrimus7hKmv8ZWW1lQ&oe=67A65AF4 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | As the daughter of Alpha, I have been a slave, abused by my brother Alpha Trey and the pack, all because of an unforgivable mistake I made when I was six. โUhheemโ A man clears his throat. I freeze. I thought I was alone cleaning the office. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. โIs this the way you greet all Alpha's?โ He swings the glass of wine, his deep voice rumbling. Alpha? Is he our guest, Alpha Dane, from the biggest pack in the world? The coldest man alive, rumored to have killed nine of his mates? โI'm sorry.โ I tremble with my head down.โIโฆI thought I was alone.โ โYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?โ โYes.โ I falter. Gosh! If Alpha Trey knows I bothered our guest, he'll definitely punish me for this! Am I going to get whipped? Starvation for another week? โWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.โ The man's voice broke my thoughts. โIโฆโ I hate the question. โSpit it out, I haven't got all day!โ His deep voice sends a shiver through me. โMy Wolf abilities were bound...โ I mutter. Twice, actually. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, โWhy would someone do that?โ โIt was a punishment.โ I can't help but tremble. "For what?!" He lifts my chin, staring at me with his crimson eyes. โBang!โ The door suddenly swings open hard, and my brother Alpha Trey screeches, โFor being an unforgiven murderer.โ I'm doomed. I close my eyes, battling back the tears that are threatening to break free. โMurdered who?โ Alpha Dane asks, savoring the words. โOur parents.โ | New world publications | 3796 | https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679604 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/6/25, 12:40 PM | 1738567630 | 1749231632 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | VIDEO | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/61215322-fb_contact-enad50_2-250126-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=233925549638247&exdata=FC3EB673E6B15A84F23DF484912697160AD49D8BC0AD4D95 | 1.1646967472085E+14 | Fun Novel | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473808930_2030313477484277_2663507189273471629_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=srew24G1XUMQ7kNvgGe8qDu&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYCAHpKIv7btxmmOxvEM-dY5s4fdCYrH1kEMvl9QLPamfg&oe=67A65184 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Ever since my father passed away, Richard had taken on a brotherly role in my life, but he often disapproved of my closeness with other guys. Every time I found a boyfriend, Richard scared them off. I complained to my friend, "My brother is stricter than my mom!" Sandra handed me a bag of chips and thought for a moment. "Could it be that Richard likes you? You guys aren't even related by blood." Since then, I deliberately distanced myself from him, but during the New Year, he suddenly brought home a girl. "Tricia, call her sister-in-law." ===== Richard was only a year older than me, but he had always used his role as an older brother to control me. When I was younger, he'd scold me for skipping classes. As I grew older and started dating, he still interfered. One time, my friend joked, "Maybe Richard likes you? You guys aren't even related by blood." Since then, I had tried to keep my distance. But during the holidays, he suddenly brought a girl home. "Tricia, this is my girlfriend. Say 'Hi'." That night, I locked myself in my room and cried uncontrollably. He pulled me out from under the covers and gently wiped away my tears. "You could find a boyfriend to annoy me, but I couldn't do the same to you?" Lately, luck hadn't been on my side. Every time I found a boyfriend, Richard scared them off. I complained to my friend, "My brother is stricter than my mom!" Sandra handed me a bag of chips and thought for a moment. "Could it be that Richard likes you? You guys aren't even related by blood." It was true. My dad and his dad had been old friends, and ever since my dad passed away, his family had been taking care of us. My mother had always told me to treat Richard like a real brother. Even though we weren't related by blood, he was more responsible than any real brother. Back in school, he would watch me do my homework every day and even lecture me if I skipped class. He was only a year older than me, but he had always acted like an adult. Whenever I did something wrong, he'd scold me faster than my mom. "Tricia, that's not polite. Don't do that." "Tricia, don't talk badly about people behind their backs." The thought that he might like me sent chills down my spine. "Don't say that! You're going to give me nightmares!" After leaving Sandra's house, her words kept echoing in my head, as if they had put a spell on me. That night, I dreamed that Richard cornered me at the stairwell, gripping my chin and ki*sing me forcefully. "Who said you could get a boyfriend?" I woke up in a cold sweat, terrified, and immediately blocked his number. Thankfully, I was about to start my internship and wouldn't be home much longer. When I opened the door the next morning, Richard just happened to be walking by. Instinctively, I stepped back and slammed the door shut. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw his cold, piercing stare. It felt like a blade cutting right through me. Later that evening, we went to his apartment for dinner. In front of everyone, he asked why I had blocked his number. I stammered, unable to come up with a reason, and had no choice but to unblock him. "I must've clicked the wrong button..." Trying to appease him, I offered him a piece of chicken with a flattering smile. "Richard, you look so thin! You should eat more meat." But something I said must've annoyed him because he even moved his plate farther away. "No need." I had found my internship on my own, even though Richard strongly opposed it and insisted I join his company. But this time, I stood my ground and firmly refused. I was too afraid that if we spent too much time together, something would happen. The apartment we were living in had been rented by Richard, thinking I'd work at his company and we'd commute together. But after starting my job, I found a new place to avoid seeing him as much as possible. My mother would text me every day, asking what I wanted to eat. She'd have the servant cook it and then deliver it to me. I'd give her a whole list of dishes, but Richard was always the one who showed up at my door. I almost slammed it shut again. But when I saw the angry look in his eyes, I stopped myself. I forced a smile and took the food container from him. "Richard, I've missed you." He ignored me, walking around the apartment to inspect the place. "Tricia, I send you so much money every month, and this is where you live? Where's all the money gone?" I hadn't touched a cent of the money he gave me. I didn't want to owe him or his family too much. But I didn't dare tell him that. He'd just accuse me of treating him like a stranger. Honestly, my mother gave me plenty of money every month too, but I had a habit of splurging on my favorite celebrities, so I had to cut costs elsewhere. "I'm investing. High returns, you know." Being a fan was an investment, especially for a toptier star like Lanny--his merch was incredibly popular. Once I got him out of my apartment, I finally breathed a sigh of relief. I swore I'd never overindulge again! Starting my new job, I often joined my colleagues for meals to fit in better. Eventually, I ran out of money and had to call my mother for help. She transferred $50, 000 to me but gave me a strict warning. "If you waste this money on a man again, I'm cutting you off." Chapter 2 Richard's Furious Because I Spent Money On Another Guy Her voice was so loud that my colleagues started giving me strange looks. I was exasperated. I had explained to her more than once that being a fan just meant liking a celebrity and spending some money on their endorsements. But my mom never listened and kept scolding me. "Spending money on men is pointless! You should be the one letting them spend money on you, got it?" Just as I was about to argue with her again, I heard a familiar voice on the other end of the phone. "Mrs. Reynolds, has Tricia gotten a boyfriend?" Why was Richard at my home? Startled, I immediately hung up the phone. The restaurant we picked was pretty popular, and we had to wait over an hour for a table. While we were waiting, a crowd suddenly started gathering. I glanced over and saw Lanny trying to make his way through the mob. Well, no wonder the place was packed--it's a hotspot for celebrities, and fans love to flock to places like this. Lanny saw me and headed my way, with a swarm of fans trailing behind him. It was a little intimidating. Wearing sunglasses, he looked cool, but in reality, he was a total goofball. "Tricia, you're here at my restaurant? Aren't you worried Richard will get angry?" Back in high school, Lanny and I were in the same class. He was great at math, and Sandra and I once went to his house to do homework. He casually put his arm around my shoulder, like we were just buddies, and neither of us thought much of it. But when Richard found out, he beat Lanny up. Ever since then, the two couldn't stand each other. I sighed helplessly. "If I'd known this was your restaurant, I wouldn't have come." I was a fan of Lanny--I went to his concerts and bought his endorsements, but I rarely paid attention to his personal life. One time, he recognized me from the stage and said he'd just give me a ticket next time, but I turned him down. Being a fan meant spending my own money; otherwise, it was not called being a fan, it was just being friends. Lanny handed me a membership card, saying I could eat at his restaurant for free from now on. I took it, thinking that if my mom ever really cut off my funds, at least I'd have a place to get a free meal. After dinner, I got home and saw Richard standing outside my door. I instinctively tried to retreat, but he was quick and called out to me. "Tricia, come here." For some reason, I always felt guilty around Richard. All I ever wanted to do was run away. "Richard, why are you here? Have you eaten yet?" He sneered, and despite it being hot, I felt a chill down my spine. "If I didn't show up, how would I know you're out here spending time with some guy?" I opened the door and explained that it was all just a misunderstanding. But he wasn't having it. He kept pressing, demanding to know who the guy was. I refused to tell him, thinking if he found out I'd spent money on Lanny, he'd beat him heavily. Then he gave me an ultimatum. "A kept man can't make you happy. Break up with him immediately." As I stood up, the card Lanny gave me fell to the floor. I quickly bent down to pick it up, but Richard was faster. He stared at me, eyes full of rage. "You don't even have money for yourself, and you're out here paying for his meals?" I was speechless as he stormed out of the apartment. Two hours later, Laurence, Richard's assistant, called me, practically in tears. "Tricia, what did you do to upset Mr. Stewart this time? I had just finished getting ready for bed when he called me back to the office to revise the proposal. I can't be on call 24/7!" I often visited Richard at his office, so I had gotten close with his secretaries and assistants. Since starting my internship, I knew all too well the pain of being forced to work overtime. Besides, they always gave me useful information--I couldn't just leave them hanging. I called Richard, and he picked up on the third ring, clearly still furious. I was trying to think of a way to coax him without making it obvious, but he was impatient. "Say something." My mind raced. Flattery never failed. "Richard, I heard you're still working overtime? You work so hard! With you in charge, the company is sure to thrive!" He didn't seem impressed. "If I didn't work my butt off, where would you get the money to spoil some guy?" Seeing that talking wouldn't help, I bought some snacks and headed to his office. When I arrived, the lights were still on, even though it was already ten o'clock. The tension in the air was palpable. Before I even reached the conference room, I could already hear Richard's angry voice inside. Chapter 3 I Thought Richard Liked Me, But He Brought Home A Girlfriend "Did I hire you to sit around gossiping all day?" "What kind of proposal is this? Is this your first day on the job? Take it back and redo it." I knocked on the door but didn't wait for a reply before entering. Everyone inside looked at me as if I were their savior, and I could see the gratitude in their eyes. Richard was caught off guard for a moment--he hadn't expected me to show up. I cleared my throat, walked up to him, and set the food down. "Richard, you should eat something. Mrs. Stewart said you haven't had dinner." He didn't move at first, so I grabbed his arm and guided him toward his office. As I closed the door behind us, I gave the others an "OK" signal. Richard's expression softened a bit, but he still looked like he wasn't in the mood to talk. I brought him a bowl of noodles, and he didn't even leave a single bite of meat. He must've been starving. "Richard, you need to take care of yourself. Work will never end. If you keep this up, your parents will be worried sick." He looked into my eyes, and I saw a mix of emotions--too many for me to make sense of. "And what about you?" I started tidying up the takeout container, avoiding his gaze. "Of course, I'm worried too. Why else would I come looking for you in the middle of the night?" My attempt to coax him worked. He picked up his jacket, slung it over his arm, and got ready to leave. "I'll take you home. It's not safe for you to walk alone at night." In the car, I avoided his eyes, pretending to look out the window at the passing scenery. For several days, I didn't contact Richard. My mom thought we were fighting and kept urging me not to be stubborn. "Don't be so willful. Richard is busy with work, and he still makes time to take care of you." I didn't know how to explain it to her, so I just stayed silent. As work got busier, I pushed the matter to the back of my mind. We spoke occasionally, but only about work-related things. Eventually, he became distant with me. I sighed with relief, but at the same time, I felt an odd emptiness inside. Time flew by, and before I knew it, Christmas was approaching. The company gave us a holiday starting three days before Christmas. Coincidentally, Lanny was holding a concert in Alodon, so I flew over to catch it and even took a photo with him afterward. Lanny said we hadn't taken a picture together in years and asked me to send him one. I did, and moments later, I saw him post it on Facebook. "Great concert! Thanks to all the friends who came from far and wide." When I returned to Pheldence, it was Christmas Eve. For some reason, I couldn't shake this feeling of unease. Every year, our families took turns hosting the family dinner, and this year it was at Richard's house. As soon as I walked in, I heard laughter coming from the living room. I headed toward the sound and saw a gentle, elegant girl sitting on the couch. She had long hair, was dressed in a luxury coat, and carried a limited-edition handbag. Clearly, she was the same type of person as Richard. The most important thing was that she was sitting next to him, with her hand linked through his arm. Richard didn't even look at me. His attention was completely on her. I felt an inexplicable surge of frustration and placed my things on the coffee table a bit too forcefully. My mom shot me a sharp look. "Tricia, can you show some manners? You just walked in, and you're already giving attitude." Richard smiled--barely, but I noticed it. Sitting across from them, their closeness felt glaringly obvious. "So, what should I call you?" I asked the girl. For the first time since I arrived, Richard actually looked at me. "Tricia, this is my girlfriend. Say 'Hi'." I didn't know what to say. Suddenly, I understood where that feeling of unease had been coming from. Richard was in a relationship, and I was the one who felt the most hurt. I quickly greeted her, but despite the feast in front of me, everything tasted bland and unappetizing. Once I got home, I rushed to my room, buried myself under the covers, and let the tears flow freely. I didn't know how much time had passed when I suddenly heard the door creak open. I hastily wiped away my tears, pretending to be asleep. Someone walked slowly to my bedside. I could feel his gaze on me as he crouched down. He pulled at my blanket, and though I clung to it, I couldn't match his strength. I opened my eyes to see Richard standing by my bed with a faint smile. "Tricia, why are you crying just because I'm in a relationship?" ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &3& | Fun Novel | 1341 | https://www.facebook.com/100090881055588/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679595 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567629 | 1745816686 | 2451 | wwwedb.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | At six years old, I accidentally killed my parents. For the punishment I, an alpha female, became a slave in my own house.. My wolf's abilities were bounded, twiceโa crippling blow that left me vulnerable. As if I were nothing more than property, my brother sold me to a ruthless alpha as part of some clan contract. The rumour I've heard about him that nine fiancee has been killed by him. Then, I discovered that this ruthless alpha, the one who now owned me, was my mate ... | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475277501_916125717366712_5719218504415863453_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=muX2z2Ua4HEQ7kNvgFqIElj&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYCZ4bno7_nd5SOEDUA8gqw-jqqppzFVDJplZ-CQ967_Pg&oe=67A63A49 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | "Where is she?" I hear the Beta scream. I groan and rise to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket before heading over. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don't make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times. "Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office." Beta Kyle spits at me. I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If only I could find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. But I didn't need another week locked up with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. "We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Don't you understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!" I don't answer, It's a trap, a ploy to provoke me into saying something that would justify punishment. I keep my eyes lowered, avoiding his gaze. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. He was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn't mess around and he had the largest pack. "He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!" We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He grabs my shoulders, his nails digging into my skin as he turns me around and kicks me into the office. "Useless Wolf." He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean against it, observing the already clean office. It looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don't quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. "Is this the way you greet all Alphas?" His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. "I'm sorry." I whisper, getting to my feet. "I...I thought I was alone." I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. "Come forward." He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey wil kill me. I step around the corner, doing as I'm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. "You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?" I nod, though I couldn't tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. "I would prefer it if you spoke to me." He growls, "I'm not in the mood to play games." "Yes." I whisper. I couldn't help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? "Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me." "I..." I hated the question. "You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It's rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?" His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact."My Wolf abilities were bound," I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn't interested in that part. He leans forward, I could feel him staring at me, "Why would someone do that?" If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. "It was a punishment." I whisper. It wasn't far from the entire truth. There's a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn't tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me "Neah, what are you doing in my office?" He turns to the crimson eyed man. "I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane." Crap, it's him. My brother spins around, hand poised to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. "I wouldn't do that if I were you."Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He is taller than my brother, more muscly too. "Neah," My name rolls off of his tongue, "was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested." What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. "Go and get Beta Kyle." Alpha Trey seethes. "Tell him our guest is here." I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. "Beta Kyle," I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. "Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you." He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. "You're lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't see sunlight for a few days." Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn't speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn't last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. "Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating." I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. "Neah is your sister, correct?" Alpha Dane questions my brother. "She is." Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. "Why do you treat her like trash?" Straight to the point, my brother wouldn't like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn't know what to do. I couldn't move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. "Neah was responsible for our parents' death." Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. "Responsible how?" Alpha Dane's voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. "She served them Wolfsbane." Don't make a sound. Don't make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. "You poisoned your parents?" "I was six." I splutter. "I just made them lemonade." My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. "Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old." "A six year old should know the difference between plants." Alpha Trey snaps "Sounds to me like she was set up." Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of me. "You weren't there, Alpha Dane." My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. "I didn't ask you here to talk about my slave!" Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha's he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha's, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. "You're right and now I have a few things to mull over." "I thought we agreed." My brother exclaims "Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out." The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. "What the heck did you say to him?" My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. "N...nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny." "Did you tell him?" Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. "WELL?" My brother yells when I don't immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. "But I didn't say it was you." I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. "If you have ruined this, you won't see daylight again." He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. "Pleaseโฆ." I beg. "He was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him." My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull... "Alpha Dane, I thought you had left." Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. "I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?" "As I said," my brother holds his ground, "She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves." "You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!" Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. "If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?" Both Alpha Trey and Beta Kyle hold their tongues. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. I see those crimson eyes land on my swollen face. "I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey." Alpha Dane speaks up again. "We have already agreed on terms." "Well, I'm adding one. And if you don't agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don't want that." "I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?" Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. "You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal." Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? "Deal." Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn't take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. "I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow." He reaches a hand out and cups my face, "Ensure you have everything packed." He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. "If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about." He struts out, slamming the door behind him. After Dane leaves, my brother grabs me by the collar. "You think you're going to have a good life if you follow Alpha Dane out of here? Don't be naive!" He continues in a vicious voice. "He's the coldest man in the world, he's killed nine of his mates, I'm waiting to see what happens to you!" | New world publications | 3796 | https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679597 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567629 | 1745816686 | 2451 | wwwedb.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | At six years old, I accidentally killed my parents. For the punishment I, an alpha female, became a slave in my own house.. My wolf's abilities were bounded, twiceโa crippling blow that left me vulnerable. As if I were nothing more than property, my brother sold me to a ruthless alpha as part of some clan contract. The rumour I've heard about him that nine fiancee has been killed by him. Then, I discovered that this ruthless alpha, the one who now owned me, was my mate ... | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475800026_1111475197133198_8215056951232040931_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=reH-XnKhZtYQ7kNvgEMnIUn&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYB7LtuUMnzSOAhGcDNbxXukIS1sugOVbmj9l-09MmrRpw&oe=67A63255 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | "Where is she?" I hear the Beta scream. I groan and rise to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket before heading over. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don't make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times. "Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office." Beta Kyle spits at me. I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If only I could find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. But I didn't need another week locked up with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. "We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Don't you understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!" I don't answer, It's a trap, a ploy to provoke me into saying something that would justify punishment. I keep my eyes lowered, avoiding his gaze. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. He was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn't mess around and he had the largest pack. "He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!" We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He grabs my shoulders, his nails digging into my skin as he turns me around and kicks me into the office. "Useless Wolf." He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean against it, observing the already clean office. It looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don't quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. "Is this the way you greet all Alphas?" His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. "I'm sorry." I whisper, getting to my feet. "I...I thought I was alone." I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. "Come forward." He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey wil kill me. I step around the corner, doing as I'm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. "You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?" I nod, though I couldn't tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. "I would prefer it if you spoke to me." He growls, "I'm not in the mood to play games." "Yes." I whisper. I couldn't help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? "Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me." "I..." I hated the question. "You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It's rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?" His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact."My Wolf abilities were bound," I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn't interested in that part. He leans forward, I could feel him staring at me, "Why would someone do that?" If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. "It was a punishment." I whisper. It wasn't far from the entire truth. There's a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn't tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me "Neah, what are you doing in my office?" He turns to the crimson eyed man. "I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane." Crap, it's him. My brother spins around, hand poised to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. "I wouldn't do that if I were you."Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He is taller than my brother, more muscly too. "Neah," My name rolls off of his tongue, "was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested." What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. "Go and get Beta Kyle." Alpha Trey seethes. "Tell him our guest is here." I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. "Beta Kyle," I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. "Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you." He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. "You're lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't see sunlight for a few days." Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn't speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn't last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. "Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating." I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. "Neah is your sister, correct?" Alpha Dane questions my brother. "She is." Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. "Why do you treat her like trash?" Straight to the point, my brother wouldn't like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn't know what to do. I couldn't move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. "Neah was responsible for our parents' death." Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. "Responsible how?" Alpha Dane's voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. "She served them Wolfsbane." Don't make a sound. Don't make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. "You poisoned your parents?" "I was six." I splutter. "I just made them lemonade." My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. "Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old." "A six year old should know the difference between plants." Alpha Trey snaps "Sounds to me like she was set up." Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of me. "You weren't there, Alpha Dane." My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. "I didn't ask you here to talk about my slave!" Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha's he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha's, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. "You're right and now I have a few things to mull over." "I thought we agreed." My brother exclaims "Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out." The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. "What the heck did you say to him?" My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. "N...nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny." "Did you tell him?" Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. "WELL?" My brother yells when I don't immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. "But I didn't say it was you." I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. "If you have ruined this, you won't see daylight again." He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. "Pleaseโฆ." I beg. "He was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him." My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull... "Alpha Dane, I thought you had left." Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. "I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?" "As I said," my brother holds his ground, "She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves." "You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!" Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. "If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?" Both Alpha Trey and Beta Kyle hold their tongues. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. I see those crimson eyes land on my swollen face. "I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey." Alpha Dane speaks up again. "We have already agreed on terms." "Well, I'm adding one. And if you don't agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don't want that." "I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?" Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. "You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal." Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? "Deal." Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn't take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. "I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow." He reaches a hand out and cups my face, "Ensure you have everything packed." He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. "If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about." He struts out, slamming the door behind him. After Dane leaves, my brother grabs me by the collar. "You think you're going to have a good life if you follow Alpha Dane out of here? Don't be naive!" He continues in a vicious voice. "He's the coldest man in the world, he's killed nine of his mates, I'm waiting to see what happens to you!" | New world publications | 3796 | https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679596 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567629 | 1745816686 | 2451 | wwwedb.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | At six years old, I accidentally killed my parents. For the punishment I, an alpha female, became a slave in my own house.. My wolf's abilities were bounded, twiceโa crippling blow that left me vulnerable. As if I were nothing more than property, my brother sold me to a ruthless alpha as part of some clan contract. The rumour I've heard about him that nine fiancee has been killed by him. Then, I discovered that this ruthless alpha, the one who now owned me, was my mate ... | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475458271_3916778371914397_6520041844653534601_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dgKaR5K3mOUQ7kNvgGUPnyX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYDVzJRy_2fFGkgNjKLWPIFNtIZfFOt2IRK-9BR4vfCOIQ&oe=67A63EAE | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | "Where is she?" I hear the Beta scream. I groan and rise to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket before heading over. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don't make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times. "Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office." Beta Kyle spits at me. I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If only I could find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. But I didn't need another week locked up with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. "We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Don't you understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!" I don't answer, It's a trap, a ploy to provoke me into saying something that would justify punishment. I keep my eyes lowered, avoiding his gaze. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. He was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn't mess around and he had the largest pack. "He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!" We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He grabs my shoulders, his nails digging into my skin as he turns me around and kicks me into the office. "Useless Wolf." He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean against it, observing the already clean office. It looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don't quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. "Is this the way you greet all Alphas?" His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. "I'm sorry." I whisper, getting to my feet. "I...I thought I was alone." I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. "Come forward." He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey wil kill me. I step around the corner, doing as I'm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. "You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?" I nod, though I couldn't tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. "I would prefer it if you spoke to me." He growls, "I'm not in the mood to play games." "Yes." I whisper. I couldn't help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? "Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me." "I..." I hated the question. "You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It's rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?" His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact."My Wolf abilities were bound," I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn't interested in that part. He leans forward, I could feel him staring at me, "Why would someone do that?" If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. "It was a punishment." I whisper. It wasn't far from the entire truth. There's a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn't tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me "Neah, what are you doing in my office?" He turns to the crimson eyed man. "I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane." Crap, it's him. My brother spins around, hand poised to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. "I wouldn't do that if I were you."Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He is taller than my brother, more muscly too. "Neah," My name rolls off of his tongue, "was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested." What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. "Go and get Beta Kyle." Alpha Trey seethes. "Tell him our guest is here." I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. "Beta Kyle," I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. "Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you." He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. "You're lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't see sunlight for a few days." Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn't speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn't last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. "Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating." I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. "Neah is your sister, correct?" Alpha Dane questions my brother. "She is." Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. "Why do you treat her like trash?" Straight to the point, my brother wouldn't like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn't know what to do. I couldn't move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. "Neah was responsible for our parents' death." Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. "Responsible how?" Alpha Dane's voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. "She served them Wolfsbane." Don't make a sound. Don't make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. "You poisoned your parents?" "I was six." I splutter. "I just made them lemonade." My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. "Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old." "A six year old should know the difference between plants." Alpha Trey snaps "Sounds to me like she was set up." Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of me. "You weren't there, Alpha Dane." My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. "I didn't ask you here to talk about my slave!" Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha's he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha's, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. "You're right and now I have a few things to mull over." "I thought we agreed." My brother exclaims "Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out." The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. "What the heck did you say to him?" My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. "N...nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny." "Did you tell him?" Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. "WELL?" My brother yells when I don't immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. "But I didn't say it was you." I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. "If you have ruined this, you won't see daylight again." He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. "Pleaseโฆ." I beg. "He was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him." My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull... "Alpha Dane, I thought you had left." Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. "I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?" "As I said," my brother holds his ground, "She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves." "You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!" Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. "If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?" Both Alpha Trey and Beta Kyle hold their tongues. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. I see those crimson eyes land on my swollen face. "I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey." Alpha Dane speaks up again. "We have already agreed on terms." "Well, I'm adding one. And if you don't agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don't want that." "I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?" Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. "You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal." Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? "Deal." Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn't take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. "I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow." He reaches a hand out and cups my face, "Ensure you have everything packed." He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. "If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about." He struts out, slamming the door behind him. After Dane leaves, my brother grabs me by the collar. "You think you're going to have a good life if you follow Alpha Dane out of here? Don't be naive!" He continues in a vicious voice. "He's the coldest man in the world, he's killed nine of his mates, I'm waiting to see what happens to you!" | New world publications | 3796 | https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679603 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 11:21 AM | 1738567630 | 1749140484 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/61215322-fb_contact-enad50_2-250126-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=233925549638247&exdata=FC3EB673E6B15A8473BB2C9D41771C86B1760CD075C09200 | 1.1646967472085E+14 | Fun Novel | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475276755_1322718492090608_1476803236898502230_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wFUeFCQyQlsQ7kNvgFLF3oM&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYAyhA-sgZ3TL_eJEigWbK7A6AcxhVgjp0snN_GfD45HOQ&oe=67A63C5F | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Ever since my father passed away, Richard had taken on a brotherly role in my life, but he often disapproved of my closeness with other guys. Every time I found a boyfriend, Richard scared them off. I complained to my friend, "My brother is stricter than my mom!" Sandra handed me a bag of chips and thought for a moment. "Could it be that Richard likes you? You guys aren't even related by blood." Since then, I deliberately distanced myself from him, but during the New Year, he suddenly brought home a girl. "Tricia, call her sister-in-law." ===== Richard was only a year older than me, but he had always used his role as an older brother to control me. When I was younger, he'd scold me for skipping classes. As I grew older and started dating, he still interfered. One time, my friend joked, "Maybe Richard likes you? You guys aren't even related by blood." Since then, I had tried to keep my distance. But during the holidays, he suddenly brought a girl home. "Tricia, this is my girlfriend. Say 'Hi'." That night, I locked myself in my room and cried uncontrollably. He pulled me out from under the covers and gently wiped away my tears. "You could find a boyfriend to annoy me, but I couldn't do the same to you?" Lately, luck hadn't been on my side. Every time I found a boyfriend, Richard scared them off. I complained to my friend, "My brother is stricter than my mom!" Sandra handed me a bag of chips and thought for a moment. "Could it be that Richard likes you? You guys aren't even related by blood." It was true. My dad and his dad had been old friends, and ever since my dad passed away, his family had been taking care of us. My mother had always told me to treat Richard like a real brother. Even though we weren't related by blood, he was more responsible than any real brother. Back in school, he would watch me do my homework every day and even lecture me if I skipped class. He was only a year older than me, but he had always acted like an adult. Whenever I did something wrong, he'd scold me faster than my mom. "Tricia, that's not polite. Don't do that." "Tricia, don't talk badly about people behind their backs." The thought that he might like me sent chills down my spine. "Don't say that! You're going to give me nightmares!" After leaving Sandra's house, her words kept echoing in my head, as if they had put a spell on me. That night, I dreamed that Richard cornered me at the stairwell, gripping my chin and ki*sing me forcefully. "Who said you could get a boyfriend?" I woke up in a cold sweat, terrified, and immediately blocked his number. Thankfully, I was about to start my internship and wouldn't be home much longer. When I opened the door the next morning, Richard just happened to be walking by. Instinctively, I stepped back and slammed the door shut. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw his cold, piercing stare. It felt like a blade cutting right through me. Later that evening, we went to his apartment for dinner. In front of everyone, he asked why I had blocked his number. I stammered, unable to come up with a reason, and had no choice but to unblock him. "I must've clicked the wrong button..." Trying to appease him, I offered him a piece of chicken with a flattering smile. "Richard, you look so thin! You should eat more meat." But something I said must've annoyed him because he even moved his plate farther away. "No need." I had found my internship on my own, even though Richard strongly opposed it and insisted I join his company. But this time, I stood my ground and firmly refused. I was too afraid that if we spent too much time together, something would happen. The apartment we were living in had been rented by Richard, thinking I'd work at his company and we'd commute together. But after starting my job, I found a new place to avoid seeing him as much as possible. My mother would text me every day, asking what I wanted to eat. She'd have the servant cook it and then deliver it to me. I'd give her a whole list of dishes, but Richard was always the one who showed up at my door. I almost slammed it shut again. But when I saw the angry look in his eyes, I stopped myself. I forced a smile and took the food container from him. "Richard, I've missed you." He ignored me, walking around the apartment to inspect the place. "Tricia, I send you so much money every month, and this is where you live? Where's all the money gone?" I hadn't touched a cent of the money he gave me. I didn't want to owe him or his family too much. But I didn't dare tell him that. He'd just accuse me of treating him like a stranger. Honestly, my mother gave me plenty of money every month too, but I had a habit of splurging on my favorite celebrities, so I had to cut costs elsewhere. "I'm investing. High returns, you know." Being a fan was an investment, especially for a toptier star like Lanny--his merch was incredibly popular. Once I got him out of my apartment, I finally breathed a sigh of relief. I swore I'd never overindulge again! Starting my new job, I often joined my colleagues for meals to fit in better. Eventually, I ran out of money and had to call my mother for help. She transferred $50, 000 to me but gave me a strict warning. "If you waste this money on a man again, I'm cutting you off." Chapter 2 Richard's Furious Because I Spent Money On Another Guy Her voice was so loud that my colleagues started giving me strange looks. I was exasperated. I had explained to her more than once that being a fan just meant liking a celebrity and spending some money on their endorsements. But my mom never listened and kept scolding me. "Spending money on men is pointless! You should be the one letting them spend money on you, got it?" Just as I was about to argue with her again, I heard a familiar voice on the other end of the phone. "Mrs. Reynolds, has Tricia gotten a boyfriend?" Why was Richard at my home? Startled, I immediately hung up the phone. The restaurant we picked was pretty popular, and we had to wait over an hour for a table. While we were waiting, a crowd suddenly started gathering. I glanced over and saw Lanny trying to make his way through the mob. Well, no wonder the place was packed--it's a hotspot for celebrities, and fans love to flock to places like this. Lanny saw me and headed my way, with a swarm of fans trailing behind him. It was a little intimidating. Wearing sunglasses, he looked cool, but in reality, he was a total goofball. "Tricia, you're here at my restaurant? Aren't you worried Richard will get angry?" Back in high school, Lanny and I were in the same class. He was great at math, and Sandra and I once went to his house to do homework. He casually put his arm around my shoulder, like we were just buddies, and neither of us thought much of it. But when Richard found out, he beat Lanny up. Ever since then, the two couldn't stand each other. I sighed helplessly. "If I'd known this was your restaurant, I wouldn't have come." I was a fan of Lanny--I went to his concerts and bought his endorsements, but I rarely paid attention to his personal life. One time, he recognized me from the stage and said he'd just give me a ticket next time, but I turned him down. Being a fan meant spending my own money; otherwise, it was not called being a fan, it was just being friends. Lanny handed me a membership card, saying I could eat at his restaurant for free from now on. I took it, thinking that if my mom ever really cut off my funds, at least I'd have a place to get a free meal. After dinner, I got home and saw Richard standing outside my door. I instinctively tried to retreat, but he was quick and called out to me. "Tricia, come here." For some reason, I always felt guilty around Richard. All I ever wanted to do was run away. "Richard, why are you here? Have you eaten yet?" He sneered, and despite it being hot, I felt a chill down my spine. "If I didn't show up, how would I know you're out here spending time with some guy?" I opened the door and explained that it was all just a misunderstanding. But he wasn't having it. He kept pressing, demanding to know who the guy was. I refused to tell him, thinking if he found out I'd spent money on Lanny, he'd beat him heavily. Then he gave me an ultimatum. "A kept man can't make you happy. Break up with him immediately." As I stood up, the card Lanny gave me fell to the floor. I quickly bent down to pick it up, but Richard was faster. He stared at me, eyes full of rage. "You don't even have money for yourself, and you're out here paying for his meals?" I was speechless as he stormed out of the apartment. Two hours later, Laurence, Richard's assistant, called me, practically in tears. "Tricia, what did you do to upset Mr. Stewart this time? I had just finished getting ready for bed when he called me back to the office to revise the proposal. I can't be on call 24/7!" I often visited Richard at his office, so I had gotten close with his secretaries and assistants. Since starting my internship, I knew all too well the pain of being forced to work overtime. Besides, they always gave me useful information--I couldn't just leave them hanging. I called Richard, and he picked up on the third ring, clearly still furious. I was trying to think of a way to coax him without making it obvious, but he was impatient. "Say something." My mind raced. Flattery never failed. "Richard, I heard you're still working overtime? You work so hard! With you in charge, the company is sure to thrive!" He didn't seem impressed. "If I didn't work my butt off, where would you get the money to spoil some guy?" Seeing that talking wouldn't help, I bought some snacks and headed to his office. When I arrived, the lights were still on, even though it was already ten o'clock. The tension in the air was palpable. Before I even reached the conference room, I could already hear Richard's angry voice inside. Chapter 3 I Thought Richard Liked Me, But He Brought Home A Girlfriend "Did I hire you to sit around gossiping all day?" "What kind of proposal is this? Is this your first day on the job? Take it back and redo it." I knocked on the door but didn't wait for a reply before entering. Everyone inside looked at me as if I were their savior, and I could see the gratitude in their eyes. Richard was caught off guard for a moment--he hadn't expected me to show up. I cleared my throat, walked up to him, and set the food down. "Richard, you should eat something. Mrs. Stewart said you haven't had dinner." He didn't move at first, so I grabbed his arm and guided him toward his office. As I closed the door behind us, I gave the others an "OK" signal. Richard's expression softened a bit, but he still looked like he wasn't in the mood to talk. I brought him a bowl of noodles, and he didn't even leave a single bite of meat. He must've been starving. "Richard, you need to take care of yourself. Work will never end. If you keep this up, your parents will be worried sick." He looked into my eyes, and I saw a mix of emotions--too many for me to make sense of. "And what about you?" I started tidying up the takeout container, avoiding his gaze. "Of course, I'm worried too. Why else would I come looking for you in the middle of the night?" My attempt to coax him worked. He picked up his jacket, slung it over his arm, and got ready to leave. "I'll take you home. It's not safe for you to walk alone at night." In the car, I avoided his eyes, pretending to look out the window at the passing scenery. For several days, I didn't contact Richard. My mom thought we were fighting and kept urging me not to be stubborn. "Don't be so willful. Richard is busy with work, and he still makes time to take care of you." I didn't know how to explain it to her, so I just stayed silent. As work got busier, I pushed the matter to the back of my mind. We spoke occasionally, but only about work-related things. Eventually, he became distant with me. I sighed with relief, but at the same time, I felt an odd emptiness inside. Time flew by, and before I knew it, Christmas was approaching. The company gave us a holiday starting three days before Christmas. Coincidentally, Lanny was holding a concert in Alodon, so I flew over to catch it and even took a photo with him afterward. Lanny said we hadn't taken a picture together in years and asked me to send him one. I did, and moments later, I saw him post it on Facebook. "Great concert! Thanks to all the friends who came from far and wide." When I returned to Pheldence, it was Christmas Eve. For some reason, I couldn't shake this feeling of unease. Every year, our families took turns hosting the family dinner, and this year it was at Richard's house. As soon as I walked in, I heard laughter coming from the living room. I headed toward the sound and saw a gentle, elegant girl sitting on the couch. She had long hair, was dressed in a luxury coat, and carried a limited-edition handbag. Clearly, she was the same type of person as Richard. The most important thing was that she was sitting next to him, with her hand linked through his arm. Richard didn't even look at me. His attention was completely on her. I felt an inexplicable surge of frustration and placed my things on the coffee table a bit too forcefully. My mom shot me a sharp look. "Tricia, can you show some manners? You just walked in, and you're already giving attitude." Richard smiled--barely, but I noticed it. Sitting across from them, their closeness felt glaringly obvious. "So, what should I call you?" I asked the girl. For the first time since I arrived, Richard actually looked at me. "Tricia, this is my girlfriend. Say 'Hi'." I didn't know what to say. Suddenly, I understood where that feeling of unease had been coming from. Richard was in a relationship, and I was the one who felt the most hurt. I quickly greeted her, but despite the feast in front of me, everything tasted bland and unappetizing. Once I got home, I rushed to my room, buried myself under the covers, and let the tears flow freely. I didn't know how much time had passed when I suddenly heard the door creak open. I hastily wiped away my tears, pretending to be asleep. Someone walked slowly to my bedside. I could feel his gaze on me as he crouched down. He pulled at my blanket, and though I clung to it, I couldn't match his strength. I opened my eyes to see Richard standing by my bed with a faint smile. "Tricia, why are you crying just because I'm in a relationship?" ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &3& | Fun Novel | 1341 | https://www.facebook.com/100090881055588/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679624 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567631 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | IMAGE | Wood Fence Installation: Starting at $749 | http://fb.me/ | 4.4507570869457E+14 | VooltPro Certified Contractors | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/472888405_571906819004901_5047879075621923334_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=v_Q_w6no0HYQ7kNvgHNsup3&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYCgBKv7QtzIiZQV7m6KQ_0OX5_PZnc-_KriSR5jzKSlKA&oe=67A62572 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi, I'm Juan, founder of locally owned company Titan Wood Fence Installation! โ Everyone always asks me, "How much does a new wood fence cost?" WellโฆEach project is unique! ๐ After you answer a few simple questions about your needs, we'll provide a FREE, INSTANT quote. ๐ Click 'GET QUOTE' below & fill out the form! ๐ก Deeply rooted in the community, we're passionate about enhancing the security & curb appeal of our homes. That's why we're offering your New Fence for as low as $749! Proudly serving Anderson, Fishers, Muncie, Noblesville, Yorktown & Surrounding Areas! | VooltPro Certified Contractors | 45 | https://www.facebook.com/61567454793871/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679621 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567631 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Quote on Your New Fence! | http://fb.me/ | 4.4507570869457E+14 | VooltPro Certified Contractors | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473191178_519465134487536_4562821150263606991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NzJw8znuIvQQ7kNvgHcbG09&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYBQKw0DH6AxofOVP_cQAhcknydrnDUZqr_jCfUbtfl78w&oe=67A64E5A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | VooltPro Certified Contractors | 45 | https://www.facebook.com/61567454793871/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679619 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567631 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Quote on Your New Fence! | http://fb.me/ | 4.4507570869457E+14 | VooltPro Certified Contractors | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473191178_519465134487536_4562821150263606991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NzJw8znuIvQQ7kNvgHcbG09&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYBQKw0DH6AxofOVP_cQAhcknydrnDUZqr_jCfUbtfl78w&oe=67A64E5A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | VooltPro Certified Contractors | 45 | https://www.facebook.com/61567454793871/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679618 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567630 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Quote on Your New Fence! | http://fb.me/ | 4.4507570869457E+14 | VooltPro Certified Contractors | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473191178_519465134487536_4562821150263606991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NzJw8znuIvQQ7kNvgHcbG09&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYBQKw0DH6AxofOVP_cQAhcknydrnDUZqr_jCfUbtfl78w&oe=67A64E5A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | VooltPro Certified Contractors | 45 | https://www.facebook.com/61567454793871/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679620 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567631 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Quote on Your New Fence! | http://fb.me/ | 4.4507570869457E+14 | VooltPro Certified Contractors | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473191178_519465134487536_4562821150263606991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NzJw8znuIvQQ7kNvgHcbG09&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYBQKw0DH6AxofOVP_cQAhcknydrnDUZqr_jCfUbtfl78w&oe=67A64E5A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | VooltPro Certified Contractors | 45 | https://www.facebook.com/61567454793871/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679628 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/9/25, 5:22 AM | 1738567631 | 1749464542 | 2451 | discover.mollurahairtransplant.com | Learn More | DCO | Free Consultation | {{product.description}} | https://discover.mollurahairtransplant.com/hair-transplant-sm | 1.017344995789E+14 | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474715589_941851254324928_4508278266820712130_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=N6EJd7-BVyIQ7kNvgFSUu1I&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYAK3Myp5Mj0F2R3908_nkZ8CniqrwwsEiJlV02YWv_Vlg&oe=67A638A4 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Turn Back Time on Hair Loss! โฐ Reclaim your confidence with a FUE Hair Transplant at Mollura Hair Restoration. Dr. Anthony Mollura has performed more than 7,000 hair restoration procedures over the last 25 years. Book your FREE Hair Consultation Today! | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | 54 | https://www.facebook.com/molluramedical/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679631 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/9/25, 11:59 PM | 1738567631 | 1749531560 | 2451 | discover.mollurahairtransplant.com | Learn More | DCO | Free Consultation | {{product.description}} | https://discover.mollurahairtransplant.com/hair-transplant-sm | 1.017344995789E+14 | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474796311_2672418072946492_2300593462350207438_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TYRp0PZ7AegQ7kNvgEZIjpQ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYAzKOt2moTgGZw6VCuKSC6EJKc3b0N2eZ5v9jqm8uFNPA&oe=67A6463E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Turn Back Time on Hair Loss! โฐ Reclaim your confidence with a FUE Hair Transplant at Mollura Hair Restoration. Dr. Anthony Mollura has performed more than 7,000 hair restoration procedures over the last 25 years. Book your FREE Hair Consultation Today! | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | 54 | https://www.facebook.com/molluramedical/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679627 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/10/25, 2:10 AM | 1738567631 | 1749539420 | 2451 | discover.mollurahairtransplant.com | Learn More | DCO | Free Consultation | {{product.description}} | https://discover.mollurahairtransplant.com/hair-transplant-sm | 1.017344995789E+14 | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474715589_941851254324928_4508278266820712130_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=N6EJd7-BVyIQ7kNvgFSUu1I&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYAK3Myp5Mj0F2R3908_nkZ8CniqrwwsEiJlV02YWv_Vlg&oe=67A638A4 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Turn Back Time on Hair Loss! โฐ Reclaim your confidence with a FUE Hair Transplant at Mollura Hair Restoration. Dr. Anthony Mollura has performed more than 7,000 hair restoration procedures over the last 25 years. Book your FREE Hair Consultation Today! | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | 54 | https://www.facebook.com/molluramedical/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679629 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567631 | 1745816686 | 2451 | discover.mollurahairtransplant.com | Learn More | DCO | Free Consultation | {{product.description}} | https://discover.mollurahairtransplant.com/hair-transplant-sm | 1.017344995789E+14 | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474715589_941851254324928_4508278266820712130_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=N6EJd7-BVyIQ7kNvgFSUu1I&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYAK3Myp5Mj0F2R3908_nkZ8CniqrwwsEiJlV02YWv_Vlg&oe=67A638A4 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Turn Back Time on Hair Loss! โฐ Reclaim your confidence with a FUE Hair Transplant at Mollura Hair Restoration. Dr. Anthony Mollura has performed more than 7,000 hair restoration procedures over the last 25 years. Book your FREE Hair Consultation Today! | Mollura Medical Hair Restoration | 54 | https://www.facebook.com/molluramedical/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679660 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567633 | 1745816686 | 2451 | pbcu.com | Learn more | IMAGE | Point Breeze Credit Union | Get started with more today. | https://www.pbcu.com/free-checking-plus?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=checking | 1.7490315922914E+14 | Point Breeze Credit Union | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475260682_2634560853381120_9168541595577052522_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_NptRBOSt14Q7kNvgGb6SNX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYC7zJzmVIsVS2hBnKcD9Hna-BojCXsOXGA-10n29tsS0g&oe=67A64585 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Free Checking PLUS - More free. More Easy. | Point Breeze Credit Union | 3290 | https://www.facebook.com/pointbreezecreditunion/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679663 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567633 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=304554039400649&exdata=C53DCDAE4F2816FFFDB2CF58C83331E1ABBFE4623416798B | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475431152_1399432971024059_917700389509746943_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CdEtDJh-RRIQ7kNvgGTnoiE&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYAZkoUnlMSvKmDOqWiZOYqKcN_70j21_rmkcPUf3Nhs2w&oe=67A63D18 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | After being released, her malicious stepsister threatened her with their mother's life and tried to send her to an older man. On her way to "sacrifice" herself, she unexpectedly met a mafia kingpin. She took the initiative to seduce him for a partnership. From then on, she turned the tablesโtearing apart the fake angel, slapping her stepmother, and refusing to be bullied again! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &10& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679662 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567633 | 1745816686 | 2451 | newurtopia.com | Order now | IMAGE | Free Shipping & 2-Years Warranty | 150+ Local Spots of Service | https://newurtopia.com/products/urtopia-carbon-1-step-thru-ebike?utm_source=metapaid&utm_medium=purchaseevent&utm_campaign={{adset.id}}&utm_content={{ad.id}} | 1.0529955844565E+14 | Urtopia | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474474957_9506416689370876_7237114340532241227_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ntICwf8Zt0MQ7kNvgH6m_6f&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYCiWeHtiqF0fkJvXo17g944cQHIsMGXkw0H8mWVxH_6XQ&oe=67A652EC | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ดโโ๏ธ ๐Ready Meet Our Carbon 1 Step Thru Ebike? ๐ดโโ๏ธ๐ฅ Unleash Your Ride with the Carbon 1 Step Thru Ebike โ 750W Power, 80 Miles Range, and More! Get Free Fenders & eSIM for a Limited Time!! ๐Get $800 deals now๐https://bit.ly/444yrcV | Urtopia | 10520 | https://www.facebook.com/UrtopiaEbike/ | 0 | ORDER_NOW | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679711 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/8/25, 6:57 AM | 1738567640 | 1749383836 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Book Now: Save up to $200 | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474839109_465359883298630_6231144393119690911_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TzOWZPLCcnYQ7kNvgFPkvNn&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYDl8-AZVynCsrOeUwD6eLsgP8AKbGaT9Fr06__TIMJ-aA&oe=67A630FD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679712 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567640 | 1745816686 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Book Now: Save up to $200 | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474839109_465359883298630_6231144393119690911_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TzOWZPLCcnYQ7kNvgFPkvNn&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYDl8-AZVynCsrOeUwD6eLsgP8AKbGaT9Fr06__TIMJ-aA&oe=67A630FD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679715 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567641 | 1745816686 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Book Now: Save up to $200 | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474839109_465359883298630_6231144393119690911_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TzOWZPLCcnYQ7kNvgFPkvNn&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYDl8-AZVynCsrOeUwD6eLsgP8AKbGaT9Fr06__TIMJ-aA&oe=67A630FD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679713 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567641 | 1745816686 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Book Now: Save up to $200 | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474839109_465359883298630_6231144393119690911_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TzOWZPLCcnYQ7kNvgFPkvNn&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYDl8-AZVynCsrOeUwD6eLsgP8AKbGaT9Fr06__TIMJ-aA&oe=67A630FD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679714 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567641 | 1745816686 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Book Now: Save up to $200 | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474839109_465359883298630_6231144393119690911_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TzOWZPLCcnYQ7kNvgFPkvNn&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYDl8-AZVynCsrOeUwD6eLsgP8AKbGaT9Fr06__TIMJ-aA&oe=67A630FD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679726 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/10/25, 12:31 PM | 1738567643 | 1749576688 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | IMAGE | Concrete Driveways: save $3500 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474124122_980542057288594_2831397987751993892_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aJmi6-sSHZMQ7kNvgHkiRSE&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYCd6h_p69hhZ-cjL1iKf2bgrZHrJNfPGSc9cBGL9gYSOg&oe=67A633A3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hey there, I'm John, owner of J&D Concrete Driveways! The cost of concrete is currently low. We donโt know how long this will last but we will pass $3500 in savings on to you! Just fill out the form to get a Quote on your Concrete Driveway Installation ๐ก Proudly local, we're passionate about enhancing the beauty & value of our community's homes. Serving Fort Worth, Dallas, Arlington, Irving, Grand Prairie & surrounding areas! Get Your Free Quote! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679700 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/14/25, 2:09 AM | 1738567637 | 1749884969 | 2451 | mindway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Chronic Overthinking Test ๐ | https://mindway.app/start?qz=mw1 | 2.1357182184276E+14 | Mindway | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471743106_503396589425961_2175717242222668455_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vbNSce5B-7YQ7kNvgF0Gh1o&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYDct-RQrQTwgEaErZuYPPqQFn7puWblia1APNWvrnJYag&oe=67A630BE | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | โจ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ Stop overthinking and start living today โจ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ๏ธ ๐ฏ Boost confidence: Develop strategies for better decision making and self-esteem ๐ซ Eliminate negative thoughts: Learn how to identify and reduce toxic thought patterns โ Live in the present moment: Become calm, happy, and trust your intuition | Mindway | 19606 | https://www.facebook.com/61555945144541/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679670 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/14/25, 2:16 AM | 1738567634 | 1749885373 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | VIDEO | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/69002322-fb_contact-ena295_2-0131-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=7929461117168105&exdata=B7502C52902DDDD94E40AD1016BECE2CF250994535B7BA6A | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475732576_1320389729203555_6666529855783910312_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hQtpKWXoup8Q7kNvgEdXBM3&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYC93Tff9cjIi-8uOWKRxRt6uPsXOG0hear99536DEaA_A&oe=67A635BD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Her fiancรฉ cheated with her stepsister but still wanted to marry her. With a mocking smile, she called off the engagement. When the sc*mbag cornered her at her door, the elite tycoon appeared behind her--wrapped in nothing but a towel... ===== "Are you seeing someone? Spend a night with me, and I'll forget about the damage to my car," Charlee Sullivan suggested boldly. Charlee leaned casually against a gleaming crimson sports car, her fitted scarlet dress emphasizing her striking silhouette. Her delicate face, framed by soft waves of auburn hair, radiated sophistication. Her usually vibrant eyes now carried an icy detachment. She wasn't one to forgive easily; after discovering that Liam Todd, her fiance, dared to cheat on her, she craved a way to retaliate. The man, crouched over his battered motorcycle, straightened up at her words. Under the streetlight's glow, his rugged, undeniably magnetic features radiated an air of untamed charisma. "I'm single," he replied, his deep baritone carrying an irresistible allure. Charlee smirked, leaning in slightly. Her curls tumbled forward, dusted with vibrant remnants of party streamers. And this man--his sharp jawline, commanding presence, and effortless charm--was everything Liam wasn't. Liam, she mused, paled in comparison to this stranger, who seemed more than capable of meeting her every desire. "So did you agree?" The man's gaze flitted between the dented luxury vehicle and his wrecked motorcycle, a flicker of amusement in his expression. Her prized car, he thought, wasn't even worth the cost of his bike's handlebars. With a sly grin, he pulled her into his embrace, his tone teasing but firm. "Deal. I can't pay for your car repairs anyway. But don't complain later, little firecracker." With that, he swept her off her feet, carrying her with ease toward a nearby h*tel... When he said a whole night, he wasn't exaggerating. Charlee lost track of the moments she blacked out. Hours later, as she slipped back into her outfit, she couldn't summon the courage to meet his gaze. Her hoarse voice trembled with a warning as she said, "I have the crash footage. The moment I step out, we're nothing to each other. Stay silent." From behind her, his voice dripped with amusement, lazy yet sharp. "Interesting. I've kept a copy of that clip, too." Not catching his implication, Charlee grabbed her belongings and headed for the exit. Her shaky legs almost betrayed her, threatening to collapse beneath her. His deep chuckle echoed. "Sure you don't need more time to recover?" What a smug b**tard! She slammed the door behind her with every ounce of strength, nearly tempted to hit him with it. She missed the possessive glint in his eyes as he watched her leave. In the hotel lobby, the glowing screen of a television displayed breaking headlines. "A shocking revelation today--two elite families in Jurgh, set to unite through marriage, have faced public embarrassment. Sources claim the Todd heir stormed out of the ceremony, leaving the Sullivan heiress humiliated." A bystander muttered, "Rumor has it the groom's quite fond of his fiancee's half-sister. Now that her parents have rekindled their relationship, who knows? Maybe he'll end up with the other sibling." On the screen, Charlee appeared in a crimson gown, her hair dotted with celebratory confetti. The camera lingered on her frozen smile, magnifying the heartbreak behind it. Surprisingly, after her intense encounter, Charlee realized the pain from the breakup wasn't as sharp anymore. She had clung too tightly to Liam, convinced their years-long relationship was indestructible. She had let him take her affection for granted. But he was never irreplaceable. Someone else had managed to fill the void effortlessly. The stranger from last night, for instance, who possessed boundless endurance. Chapter 2 Obsession Charlee said, "Hello. I'd like to check out." Distracted by a heated debate over the latest news on TV, the receptionists glanced up from their conversation. Their eyes widened as they recognized the woman from the video, forcing a slightly awkward smile. One receptionist looked back at the screen and then at Charlee, clearly captivated by the latter's striking appearance. Her eyes flicked briefly to Charlee's neck as she processed the latter's check-out. As Charlee drove home, she reflected on the curious glances she received from the receptionists. Curious, she pulled out a mirror. The hi*keys on her neck were hard to miss. She reached for her foundation, carefully covering the marks. Most of them were still visible, though. That man's stamina was truly remarkable. Their meeting had begun with a car accident and quickly turned into a night of carefree fun. The memory brought a soft laugh to her lips. Thirty minutes later, she steered her sports car into the driveway of the Sullivans' grand villa. At the same moment, a black Cayenne rolled in beside her. As the car door swung open, Liam gently assisted Stacey Sullivan out, treating her with utmost care. His gaze turned cold when he spotted Charlee. "Keep your troubles away from Stacey. We'll talk later." His composed manner brought back memories of him setting boundaries, like prohibiting her from eating ice cream during her periods or wearing skirts to school. There was a time she almost adored this aspect of Liam. Now, it only disgusted her. Facing him, she said, "This is good timing. I'm calling off our engagement." Under the sunlight, she rose elegantly, her perfect skin radiating, her beautiful face emitting a captivating charm. Liam was caught off guard and then noticed the marks on her neck; his eyes filled with anger immediately. Releasing Stacey's arm, he strode toward Charlee and seized her wrist with a grip that almost broke it. "Where were you last night? Who is responsible for this?" He resembled a husband who felt deceived. Oh, the irony. "Let go," Charlee said, her eyes cold. "All this time, I've treated you well, yet you've acted shamelessly. To think you'd let another man's l*ps on your neck!" Liam refused to believe Charlee could betray him like this. He was convinced she'd asked someone to make those marks just to agitate him. Trapped in his grasp, Charlee flashed a mischievous smile. "Oh, it wasn't just my neck. His k*sses covered me completely." Realizing Charlee had seen the video, Liam's hold inadvertently weakened. "There's a reason for this. Please, don't let this hurt Stacey." He was aware of the video then. He certainly knew how to keep the excitement alive in the b*droom. Charlee could no longer hold back her frustration and sl*pped him. "Charlee, what's going on?" Stacey cried out as she dashed forward, encircling Charlee's waist with her arms and forcibly pulling the latter back. "Liam means the world to me, blame me if you must. He treats you so well. How could you sl*p him?" Stacey's tearful plea was followed by a low, sinister chuckle. Stacey whispered, "So, what is it like to be left alone at your own engagement? I merely scratched my wrist, and Liam couldn't stop comforting me." A cold dread crept over Charlee, feeling like she was trapped by a venomous snake, urging her to shove Stacey away. The moment she touched Stacey's arm, Stacey screamed and tumbled to the ground, her wrist bl**ding through the bandage. "Charlee!" Liam, seething with anger, rushed to Stacey's aid. "You owe Stacey an apology, now!" "Don't be so harsh, Liam," Stacey said softly, holding onto Liam's hand as he pointed at Charlee, her voice tender yet pitiful. "This is on me; I shouldn't have let my feelings for you go so far. She's supposed to be your bride. It's natural for Charlee to be upset. I accept whatever comes." Her act of pity managed to melt Liam's heart. "Please, don't cry, Stacey," he said. Chapter 3 Totally Disappointed Charlee's gaze lingered on Liam and Stacey's display of affection, her tone biting as she sneered, "You do realize this is on you, right?" Liam's eyes darkened with fury, cutting toward her like a bl*de. "You've crossed a line, Charlee. Stacey is your sister. She almost died, and you still feel the need to antagonize her?" "Sister?" Charlee's laugh was as icy as her stare. "You mean the one who s*duced her sister's fiance?" "You..." Liam's anger simmered as he steadied Stacey, leading her toward the Sullivan estate. As they neared Charlee, he turned sharply and barked, "Wait for me at the door." He spoke with the authority of someone who expected to be obeyed, confident in her usual compliance. But instead, Charlee strode past him without a second glance, her red dress flowing behind her. With her sleek black heels clicking against the pavement and her crimson lips curved in disdain, she exuded an untamed elegance, like a predator that couldn't be tamed. "This is my house," she said coolly, throwing the words over her shoulder. "You don't get to dictate what I do." Liam froze, startled by her defiance, his eyes glued to her retreating figure. Something about her felt different--unfamiliar. "Liam..." Stacey's soft, delicate voice rang out beside him, pulling him back to reality. His voice grew gentler. "That's just her way. Don't mind her. I'll handle it later and make sure she doesn't trouble you again. Let's get you back to rest." Stacey's eyes welled up as she gripped his arm tightly, unwilling to let go. "You said you'd stay with me, Liam," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. Her plea struck a chord deep within him. He replied softly, "Of course, I will. You did all that because you cared so much for me. I'll stay by your side until you're well again." Meanwhile, Charlee went upstairs, took a long shower, and changed before coming back to see Liam and Stacey finally entering the house together. Standing on the balcony, she nearly choked at the sight of them embracing, their affection on full display near the doorway. "Had enough of that yet?" she asked dryly, lounging on the sleek leather sofa, her legs elegantly crossed, exuding the air of a prowling feline. Suddenly, a sharp voice rang out from above. "What's your problem, Charlee? You're becoming impossible!" Her father, Keith Sullivan's stern expression darkened as he descended the stairs, trailed by Hannah Sullivan, his former wife. Hannah had settled in here, officially taking the title of Mrs. Sullivan in the eyes of others. Though dressed to impress, her harsh and hostile demeanor was impossible to miss. To Charlee, it was clear as day that, like Stacey, she was utterly hypocritical. Charlee didn't bother with an argument. Instead, she pulled out her phone, tapped a few times, and projected footage from the security camera onto the massive living room TV. The screen revealed Stacey and Liam locked in an intimate e*brace, their l*ps pressed together with a level of closeness that left nothing to the imagination. "Why would you do this, Charlee?" Stacey wailed, covering her face as though humiliated, then dashed upstairs, her sobs echoing through the halls. Anyone unaware of the full story might think Charlee had wronged her instead of exposing her. "Stacey, don't do anything reckless!" Hannah shouted, quickly following after her in a show of concern, making sure everyone remembered that Stacey was delicate and must not be upset. As expected, Keith lost his temper and stormed over to yank the TV's plug from the wall. "Charlee, are you determined to destroy this household?" Keith barked furiously. "Perhaps you should be asking Stacey that question," Charlee retorted, her disappointment cutting through her cold tone. She fixed him with an unyielding stare--one filled with bitterness, entirely void of warmth. Since losing her mother, she had come to understand just how fragile family bonds could be. For sixteen years, her mother had sacrificed everything to stand by Keith's side. Yet within a week of her passing, he had welcomed Hannah and Stacey into their home. How could he be so cruel? Chapter 4 Her Cruel Father Charlee's accusations deepened the anger etched on Keith's face. In a sharp tone, he said, "Stacey is your sister, and this is her home, too. She's bottled up her emotions, staying out of your way when it comes to Liam. She's reached a point of despair so profound it drove her to attempt to end her life. Yet, here you are, devoid of compassion and consumed by hostility. How can you be so unfeeling?" Liam, having shaken off the earlier awkwardness, finally spoke. "Mr. Sullivan, perhaps you should check on Stacey. I'll handle things with Charlee." Even now, Liam shielded Charlee, seemingly treating her with the same patience and indulgence as always. But his actions felt like repeated blows, each one more painful than the last. Charlee rose to her feet, her gaze icy and expression unreadable. "There's nothing left to discuss. The engagement is over." Liam countered, "Charlee, we've been together for years, and you've refused to get closer to me. I'm only human--I have needs too." His justification was absurd. Agreeing to share intimacy only after their engagement had somehow morphed into his excuse for betrayal. "So this is why you turned to Stacey?" A moment of silence followed. She couldn't help but let out a cold laugh. "If you're shameless enough to do this, at least have the decency to announce your plans to marry her. Stop skulking around like a coward. You're pathetic." Turning to leave, she felt Liam seize her wrist. "Are you insane?" He couldn't believe she had just called him a coward. She had never belittled him like this before. Charlee exhaled slowly before driving her foot into his shin. His pained cry echoed as she wrenched her hand free. "Try me, and you'll regret it," she warned, voice steady but threatening. At eighteen, Charlee had survived a harrowing kidnapping and near-r*pe attempt. The trauma had driven her to secretly train in kickboxing for four years. After winning a local championship, she had once jokingly told Liam she'd protect him as his personal bodyguard. Who would have thought he'd one day be the recipient of those skills? The irony was overwhelming. "You br*t! Get back here!" Keith stormed into the room, catching the tail end of their argument, his voice booming with fury. But Charlee didn't falter. She walked away with poise, not sparing him a glance. Now that the pretense was shattered, she was ready to move forward with her long-delayed plans. Liam clenched his jaw, suppressing the pain, waiting before attempting to stand. Keith waited for him to recover and then spoke. "Liam, I've indulged Charlee too much. About the marriage..." His meaning was unmistakable. He wanted to cancel the marriage arrangement between Charlee and Liam. Without the Todd family, Charlee would become obedient. And if he married Stacey to Liam, the Todd family would be his aide completely. Liam's frustration was evident. "Delay it. Stacey's health is fragile. Once she's better, I'll marry Charlee." Though Charlee had ended things, Liam didn't take her words seriously. At sixteen, she had hit rock bottom, relying entirely on him to pull her through. Her years of unwavering devotion were proof enough that she'd never truly leave him. โฆโฆ In the Sullivan Group's project department, Charlee sat in her office, focused on compiling reports. Keith hadn't stripped her of authority due to the family's partnership with the Todds. But now that she had called off the engagement, she needed to secure her position. At three in the afternoon, her assistant, Alexia Jenkins, burst into the office, knocking hastily before stepping inside, her face visibly drained of color. Trailing behind her, Stacey entered clad in a tailored light-gray suit, radiating an air of confidence and control. The meekness she displayed in front of Liam had vanished, replaced by an unrestrained sense of triumph. "Charlee, the board has voted to relieve you of your duties as project director. Starting today, I'll be stepping in to take over. All incomplete projects under your supervision will now fall to me. As for your reassignment..." Stacey's lips curled into a mocking smile as she tossed a blue folder onto the desk. "The newly established Green Biopharmaceuticals in the eastern suburbs needs someone to manage it. The tech is fully patented, and the production lines run seamlessly--your job will just be signing papers and killing time. See? Dad hasn't forgotten about you entirely." Chapter 5 Green Biopharmaceuticals The Sullivan Group owned four branches, and Green Biopharmaceuticals was the least promising of them all. Despite its grandiose name, it was nothing more than a basic contract manufacturing facility. Devoid of innovation or proprietary patents, it functioned solely as a production line, lacking any semblance of independence. Still, this company marked the genesis of the Sullivan Group's wealth, the hard-won achievement of Charlee's mother during her initial ventures into the industry. Charlee tapped her finger lightly on the document. "I'm the project director. Do you really think you can demote me to manage some rundown company? Dream on." Stacey remained composed, as though she had expected Charlee's resistance. "Dad said if you're unwilling to leave, you can stay in the project department, but under me as your supervisor. You'll have to take my orders." Charlee let out a sharp, derisive laugh. Her disdain was written all over her elegant face. "Mr. Sullivan knows you're useless, so he's forcing me to stay and clean up after you. How pathetic." The office door stood wide open, intentionally so. Stacey had planned for the entire project team to witness Charlee's humiliation. Yet, the plan backfired. With an air of confidence, Stacey squared her shoulders and lifted her chin. "I was appointed as director by the board. It was a unanimous decision. At the year-end meeting, I'll lead this team in collecting our accolades. Just wait." Charlee clicked her tongue dismissively. "Stop puffing yourself up." Without another word, she made a call and put it on speaker. After a few rings, Keith answered, his authoritative tone filling the room. "With the tension between you and Liam, I have to make a decision. Sign the papers and head to the company. Don't stir up trouble. I have a strategy in mind." His tone was firm yet sounded almost considerate. Charlee's lips curled into a mocking smile. "Mr. Sullivan, I own eight percent of the shares. Don't I qualify as a stakeholder?" Keith was silent for a moment before replying begrudgingly, "If two-thirds of the shareholders agree, it's out of your hands." His message was clear... Charlee's voice didn't matter. Charlee arched an eyebrow and glanced at Stacey with a smirk. "Unanimous, you said?" Stacey flushed crimson, while whispers spread among the onlookers outside the office. Stacey's credibility was already in tatters before she even assumed her new role. Before Stacey could recover and respond, Charlee's tone turned icy. "I want ownership of the pharmaceutical plant. Draft a revised agreement and send it to me. Then I'll sign and step aside. Otherwise... I don't mind dragging us all down." Before Keith could protest, Charlee hung up. She understood Stacey's ambitions all too well, but after three years as project director, Charlee wasn't about to surrender without a fight. Besides, she was never a pushover. Keith couldn't afford to gamble with everything at stake. Thirty minutes later, the company transfer papers were delivered to her desk. Charlee reviewed them meticulously before signing without hesitation. As she prepared to leave, Stacey, now firmly seated in the director's chair, issued orders. "Other than personal belongings, you're not to take a single thing from this office. Alexia, check her items." Alexia, who owed her position to Charlee, hesitated. Her contract, however, was with the Sullivan Group. Sparing her the dilemma, Charlee opened her own bag and box. She turned to Stacey, holding up a small jewelry case, her strikingly clear eyes fixed on her rival. "These are the ring and bracelet Liam had custom-made for me. One of a kind. Want them?" Seeing Stacey's enraged expression, Charlee tossed the jewelry box into the trash with a casual motion and dusted off her hands. "Getting rid of j*nk feels amazing." As she exited, the sound of shattering cups erupted behind her. Charlee smiled to herself. Was Stacey already cracking? She'd need to hold out until those projects were under her control. That was when the real battle would begin. Charlee had underestimated Stacey's and Keith's pettiness. When she attempted to drive away, security halted her vehicle, asserting it was property of the Sullivan Group. Now acting as director of the pharmaceutical company, Charlee had lost her privilege to use this car since the company's split from the Sullivan Group. Exiting her sports car, she slipped on her sunglasses and glanced toward her office building. Despite the distance, she could distinctly make out Stacey on the floor of her office, gracefully enjoying a cup of coffee. In a daring move, Charlee gave Stacey the finger, then turned on her heel and walked off with her belongings to hail a nearby taxi. As she waited, a sleek black Maybach rolled to a stop before her. The door swung open automatically, revealing a man lounging comfortably, an amused expression playing across his refined features. "What a coincidence." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679645 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567632 | 1745816686 | 2451 | cdnjkfiw.com | Learn more | IMAGE | ๐Mga Anak ng Bilyonaryo๐ | https://www.cdnjkfiw.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=17755&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 3.8701676448549E+14 | Philip Spicy Reading | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475560407_1181058707071223_3285543735576504112_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YwVtZanjOu8Q7kNvgE5n3I7&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYDs2cl3JQJNeGCf_VfpOjsoAe3hqfmuLjCGLMibVNeCPg&oe=67A62D27 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Madiing tinali ni Lorelei ang sintas ng luma niyang sapatos. Kalahating oras na lang ay magsisimula na ang klase niya ngunit hinihintay niya pa ang perang ibibigay ng kanyang Tita Agnes. Pang-huling taon na niya sa kolehiyo sa kursong business management. Gusto niya ay siya na ang mag-manage sa maliit na restaurant na iniwan ng yumao niyang ina na hawak ng Tita niya. Nagsalubong ang mga kilay niya at napasandal sa lumang sofa matapos marinig ang halinghing ng Tita niya mula sa kwarto. Sigurado siyang naroon na naman ang kinakasama nitong lalaki na si Richard. "Idiin mo, Richard!" dinig pa niyang sigaw ng Tita niya. Naiiling siyang pumikit. Maya-maya pa matatapos ang mga ito kaya naman tumayo na siya at kumatok sa pinto ng kwarto. "Tita, aalis na po ako." "Oh! Ode umalis kaโRichard!" muling hiyaw pa nito. "Iyong pera ko po," paalala niya pa rito ngunit daing at halinghing ang sagot nito. Paulit-ulit niyang kinatok ang pinto. Ang huling bigay nito ay limangdaan na pinagkasya niya ng isang linggo. Ayaw naman niyang basagin ang alkansyang baboy niya na mamiso lang ang laman. Nabitin sa ere ang pagkatok niya noong bumukas ang pinto. Niluwa no'n si Richard na pawisin, tanging basketball short ang suot, may hawak din itong libo-libong pera sa kamay. Namumutok ang mga braso nito at halos masakop ang pinto sa laki ng katawan. Mukha pa itong aburido noong tumingin sa kanya kaya napaatras siya. "Istorbo," parinig pa nito bago siya lagpasan. Napamaang siya at agad na pumasok sa kwarto. Huli niya pang nagsusuot pa lang ng t-shirt ang Tita niya. "Pera lang ang habol sa'yo ni Richard, Tita. Hiwalayan mo na iyon. Ang laki ng katawan no'n at kaya no'n ang magtrabahoโ" "Huwag kang makialam sa desisyon ko at hindi naman kita anak. Ikaw ang lumayas kung gusto mo. Bukas makalawa ay dito na titira si Richard. Mas maganda siguro kung humanap ka na ng ibang matitirahan at baka maging kaagaw pa kita sa kanya. Malaki ka na, kaya mo na ang sarili mo," pinal nitong sambit bago nagsuot ng underwear. Nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata niya, "Ginagatasan ka lang ng pera ni Richard, Titaโ" "Oh ayan, dalawang libo para matikom iyang bibig mo. Huling baon mo na iyan. Gagamitin ni Richard ang pera at magtatayo siya ng talyer." Mas lalo siyang nanlumo, "Hindi po pwede iyon. Pera ni Mama ang mga iyan. Kita sa restaurant niya, Tita. Huwag naman po kayong magpabilog kay Richard!" hindi niya mapigilang ilakas ang boses niya. Napalunok pa siya at natakot noong tumayo ito at lumapit sa kanya. Matalim na ang tingin nito. "Aba! Ano'ng pera ng Mama mo? Ilagay mo sa kokote mong matagal ng patay ang Mama mo at akin na ang restaurant na iyon. Pinag-aral at pinakain na kita. Nasa tamang edad ka na at kaya mo ng magtrabaho." Ilang beses pa nitong tinulak-tulak ang noo niya. "Hala sige, layas!" galit pa nitong sigaw bago siya itulak palabas ng pinto. Pinigil niya ang mga luha. Bandang huli ay hindi niya nakuha ang dalawang libong bigay nito. Nanghiram pa tuloy siya ng pera kay Nica. "Paano ang OJT mo? Titigil ka kailan huling taon na, Lei?" Nasapo niya ang noo at napasubsob sa mesa. Simula noong maging boyfriend ng Tita niya si Richard ay naging ganoon na ang Tita niya. "Ewan ko. Hindi ko na alam, Nica." Bumikig ang lalamunan niya sa badyang pag-iyak. Ni hindi niya pinansin ang grupong lumapit sa kanila. "Si Alicia," bulong pa sa kanya ni Nica. Si Alicia ang pinakasikat sa university nila. Mayaman, makinis, at madaming kakilala. Napasilip pa siya rito. Malaki ang ngiti nito, litaw ang naka-braces na ngipin. Ni hindi gumagalaw ang kulot na buhok na kulay blonde. Napaayos siya ng upo noong maglapag ito ng papel. "We're recruiting members for our sorority. You might want to join. Tonight is the initiation," magiliw nitong saad. Nangunot ang noo niya. Alam niyang hindi magandang sumali sa sorority ngunit noong mabasa niya ang mga benefits sa papel ay napalunok siya. "Free education and free allowance. Mayayaman lahat ng kasali at mga iilang negosyante. Nagpaparami lang kami ng miyembro. No fees, all free. Don't worry about the initiation, hindi naman iyon masakit. I would love to see both of you tonight." Kumindat pa ito bago umalis kasama ang dalawa pang alagad nito. "Maganda ang benefits nila, Lei. Solve ang problema mo kapag sumali tayo." Dumukwang ito at nilapit ang tainga sa kanya, "Tsaka alam mo ba, balita ko may kasapi silang Fraternity na puro gwapo," dagdag na bulong nito bago humagikhik. Wala siyang pakialam sa mga gwapo. Ang kagustuhan niyang makatapos ng kolehiyo ang nagtulak sa kanyang sumali. Makailang beses niya pang sinuklay ang malambot, tuwid, at maitim na hanggang balikat niyang buhok. Ginamit niya rin ang lipbalm upang malambot tingnan ang mga labi niya. Kaunting polbo lang ay sinuot na niya ang puting lumang bestida niyang abot hanggang tuhod at sandalyas na naging dirty white na. Kabado pa siya noong makarating sa hideout ng mga ito. Nasa pila na rin si Nica na agad kumaway sa kanya. Mabilis siyang lumapit. "Piliin raw natin iyong sarap sabi ni Alicia. Lahat kasi ng pumili ng hirap ay dinadala sa kabila at nakakatanggap ng hampas at palo," bulong nito. "Huh? Akala ko ba hindi masakit ang initiation nila?" "Hindi nga kapag sarap ang pinili mo. Basta, doon tayo sa turo ni Alicia. Ayokong magkapeklat, Lei." Napalunok siya at hindi mawari ang kaba sa dibdib niya. Makailang beses niya pang pinisil ang mga kamay. "Nica Fernandez!" sigaw ng lalaking tingin niya ay bouncer. Nagtaas ng kamay ang kaibigan niya bago humarap sa kanya. "Tandaan mo ang pipiliin mo, Lei. Iyon ang pipiliin ko. Magkita na lang tayo ulit bukas. Para sa pangarap, Lei!" pagpapasigla pa nito ngunit hindi niya masuklian ng ngiti. Siya na ang kasunod pagkatapos nito ngunit hindi na siya mapakali. May tatlo pang babae sa likod niya at dinig niyang pipiliin din ng mga ito ang pinapapili sa kanya ni Nica. "Lorelei Carpio!" Napaigtad siya sa malakas na sigaw ng bouncer. Muntik pa siyang madapa sa pagkataranta para lang makalapit. Tumuwid siya ng tayo. Pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin. Nangunot ang noo nito ngunit hindi nagkomento. Baka iniisip nitong bata siya sa height niyang 5'5 at balingkinitang katawan. "Sarap o hirap, Miss?" hindi nakangiting tanong nito. Napalunok siya at naumid yata ang dila pero kailangan niyang sumagot. Malaking benepisyo ang makukuha niya kapag natanggap siya sa sorority ni Alicia. "S-arap po," pikit-matang sagot niya. Inangat nito ang palad at agad na lumapit ang isa pang bouncer. "Nandiyan na ba si Phoenix?" tanong nito sa tinawag. "Kadarating lang pero nasa kwarto na." "Good. Ibigay mo 'yan sa kanya at ipaalala mong birhen 'yan," utos pa nito sa lalaki. Nangunot ang noo niya ngunit napapikit noong basta na lang siya lagyan ng blindfold sa mga mata. "B-akit po may blindfold?" kabadong tanong niya. "Hindi mo pwedeng makita ang makakasama mo. Bawal mong silipin o tanungin ang pangalan niya. Kapag ginawa mo iyon, madi-disqualify ka at hindi ka tatanggapin sa grupo," paalala pa ng bouncer na lumapit. Tinatak niya sa isip ang mga sinabi nito. Napasunod siya noong hilahin siya nito sa kung saan. Narinig niya rin ang tunog ng doorknob. Marahan pa siya nitong tinulak sa loob. Sumalubong sa kanya ang mabangong amoy ng lemon. Hindi niya mawari kung air freshener iyon o pabango. "New recruit?" tanong ng mababa at tila namamaos na boses. Nanindig pa ang mga balahibo niya sa bahagyang lamig sa boses nito. "Birhen 'yan. Ingatan mo." Nahigit niya ang hininga at kinabahan noong bitiwan na siya ng lalaki. Ramdam niya bigla ang tensyon sa paligid, maging ang mariing titig sa kanya. "I'm not gonna educate you. I hope you know why you are here and why you came here... willingly," seryosong sambit pa nito gamit ang namamaos nitong boses. Mabilis siyang tumango. Ang sabi sa kanya ay mabilis lang ang initiation kaya baka tanong nga lang iyon. "Uhm, I w-ant to finish my studies; that's why I came here," kabadong sagot niya ngunit malutong pagmumura ang narinig niya mula dito. Kasunod ay ang pagbukas ng pinto, "Inosente itong ni-recruit niyo! Get her outta here!" biglang sigaw nito sa labas. "You can't back out, Phoenix. Alam mo ang mangyayari sa kanya kapag pinaalis mo siya ngayon," madiing sagot ng kung sino. Marahas na buntong hininga ang narinig niya at malakas ding sinara ang pinto. Nagtaasan muli ang mga balahibo niya sa gulat noong humawak ang may kagaspangan nitong palad sa braso niya. "I hope you won't regret coming here," mabigat nitong bulong. Nanlamig siya noong umikot ang malaking braso nito sa bewang niya. Sa tantiya niya ay malaki din ang katawan nito lalo na noong lumapat ang balikat niya sa malapad nitong dibdib. Napaatras pa siya noong maramdaman ang daliri nitong binababa ang strap ng kanyang bestida. "A-nong gagawin mo?" Humakbang ito na kinaatras niya. Mahina siyang napasigaw sa pagbagsak niya sa kama. Gulat pa siya sa malaking katawan na biglang umibabaw sa kanya. Kumalabog ng husto ang puso nita. Sakop na sakop ng malaking katawan nito ang katawan niya. "S-andali!" Sinubukan niyang pigilan ang dibdib nito kahit hindi niya nakikita ngunit hinuli nito ang mga kamay niya at parehong pininid sa kama gamit ang isang palad nito. Bumigat ang paghinga niya lalo na noong sumiksik sa looban ng bestida niya ang malaking palad nito. "You should not have come here, Miss. Now you left me no choice but to take you," mabigat na bulong nito bago lumapat ang mga basang labi sa kanyang leeg. Lalo siyang nanlamig matapos matanto ang nangyayari. Hindi siya nakakilos. Ang naglalakabay nitong mainit na palad at ang malaking katawan nito sa itaas niya ay sapat na upang mangilid ang mga luha niya. "H-uwag po," nanginig pa ang boses niya. Marahas na bumuntong hininga ang lalaki, "You chose this. I tried my best to help you. The least thing I can do... is to be gentle," tila nahihirapang bulong nito. Napalunok siya kahit pa unti-unti nitong naalis ang mga saplot niya. Niyakap siya ng lamig ng aircon ngunit natakpan sa init ng malaking katawan nitong nasa itaas niya. Ang kabog ng dibdib niya ay walang kasing lakas sa pinaghalong kaba at kung ano man ang pinaparamdam nito sa kanya lalo noong dumausdos ito pababa... sa pagitan ng mga hita niya. Nanginig ang mga hita niya noong maramdaman ang mainit nitong paghinga't bibig nitong dumampi doon. Pinagpawisan siya nang malagkit kasabay ng kaba. Tanging impit na ungol at daing ang naibulalas niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang bibig nito doon. Napapabalikwas ang bewang niya ngunit hindi ito masipa. Para siyang na-estatwa noong magtagal ito doon hanggang sa mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa mga labi niya. Hinihingal pa siya sa paggapang nito muli sa itaas niya, pinaghiwalay ang mga hita niya, at pinwesto ang malaking katawan doon. Hindi siya nakaprotesta, naumid ang dila niya at hindi mahanap ang boses niya. Sunod na lang niyang namalayan ay ang pagtulo ng luha niya sa hapdi matapos mag-isa ang katawan nila. Namilipit siya sa sakit sa bawat galaw nito. Tila napunit na nito lahat ng nasa loob niya at kahit bagalan pa nito ay hiyaw ang kumakawala sa bibig niya. Pinirmi pa nito ang bewang niya. Nawalan na rin ng lakas ang mga kamay niya na kahit binitiwan nito ay hindi siya nakakilos para itulak ito. Namimigat ang paghinga niya at napapa-igik sa bawat madiing galaw nito sa loob niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang malaking katawan nitong gumagalaw sa kanyang itaas. Ni hindi niya alam kung paanong natapos ang pangyayaring iyon. Ang alam niya lang ay nakuha ng isang estrangherong lalaki ang puri niya. Paggising niya ay nananakit ang katawan niya. Takot pa siyang alisin ang blindfold ngunit kusa iyong nalaglag. Namulatan niya ang tahimik na kwarto, walang bakas na may nakasama siya ngunit ang dugo sa kobre kama ay patunay na wala na sa kanya ang iniingatan niya. Napasubsob siya sa kanyang tuhod at napahagulhol. Masyado siyang nagpadalos-dalos sa desisyon niya! Dapat ay inalam niya muna kung ano'ng klaseng sarap ang sinasabi ng mga ito! Kahit hirap maglakad ay pinilit niya ang sariling magbihis at umalis sa lugar na iyon. Wala na rin naman ang mga bouncer. Kahit si Nica ay hindi niya mahagilap. Sa sobrang pagod niya ay hindi na niya pinansin ang boyfriend ng Tita niya na nasa sala. Diretso siyang kwarto at binagsak ang katawan doon. Ang masama, nilagnat pa siya at napanaginipan ng ilang beses ang nangyari! Tatlong araw din siyang hindi nakapasok. Para siyang lutang na naglalakad noong pumasok na sa eskwela. Natulala pa siya sa nakangiti niyang kaibigan. "Bayad na ang tuition fee nating dalawa. Ang galing! May allowance pa, Lei!" Hagikhik nito bago pinakita ang cheque na may malaking halagang nakasulat. Napalunok siya. Ito na iyon. Ito na ang kapalit ng pagsali nila sa Sorority. Dapat bang kalimutan na lang niya ang nangyari sa kanila ng lalaki? "Ang balita ko ay mga Fraternity leader ang mga lalaking iyon, Lei. Hindi ko rin nakilala ang sa'kin," kwento pa ni Nica sa kanya. "H-indi ka ba umiyak? O nasaktan? Ako kasi pakiramdam ko nahati ang katawan ko," mahinang sambit niya. Namula ang mga pisngi nito, "Hindi ko una iyon kaya... sakto lang ang sakit." Napaawang ang mga labi niya sa kaibigan. Hindi pa mag-sink in sa kanya iyon. Wala naman siyang karapatan na husgahan ito kaya tumango na lang siya. "Wala bang meeting ang Sorority ngayon? Gusto kong magtanong kay Alicia. Baka pwede ko ng makita man lang iyong Phoenix na nakasama ko," imbis ay liko niya sa usapan. "Hindi tayo natanggap doon, Lei." "A-no? P-aanong hindi? Pero bayad na ang tuition fee base na rin sa benefits nila." Umiling ito, "Bayad iyon sa'tin, Lei. Hindi tayo kasapi ng grupo nila. Hindi tayo tinanggap." Para siyang nabingi sa narinig. Kumuyom ang kamao niya. Ang ibig sabihin ay inalay lang sila sa mga Fraternity leader na iyon. Gusto niyang magdamdam at ibalik ang perang natanggap ngunit hindi niya magawa lalo na noong mas maghigpit sa pera ang Tita Agnes niya. Naka-survive siya ng halos dalawang buwan sa allowance na bigay ng grupo. May natira pa ngunit hindi sasapat iyon kaya muli siyang kumakatok sa kwarto ng Tita niya. "Tita, hihingi po sana ako ng allowanceโ" Nabitin sa ere ang kamay niya at napatingala kay Richard noong buksan nito ang kwarto. Sumandal pa ito at humalukipkip. Napaatras siya noong bigla siya nitong pasadahan ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Nagtagal pa ang mga titig nito sa mga dibdib niya kaya nayakap niya ang sarili. "B-akit ka nandito? N-asaan si Tita Agnes?" Ngumisi ito at mas niluwangan ang pinto, "Dito na ako nakatira. May binili lang ang Tita mo. Kalahating oras pa iyon sa bayan. Baka gusto mong paligayahin muna kita." Napasinghap siya sa takot at umatras "Manyak!" galit niyang sigaw dito ngunit pilit nitong inabot ang siko niya at hinihila siya papasok sa kwarto. "Mabilis lang, Lei. Hindi malalaman ng Tita mo. Tayong dalawa langโ" "Bitiwan mo ko! Ayoko sa'yo!" Malakas niya itong sinampal. Nabitiwan siya nito at sinalo ang pisnging sinampal niya. "Punyeta ka, Lorelei! Bakit mo sinampal si Richard?!" biglang sigaw ng Tita niya mula sa likod kaya natulos siya sa kinatatayuan.p Nanginig siya sa kaba lalo na sa nanlilisik na tingin ng Tita niya. "T-ita, kasiโ" "Lumayas kang Punyeta ka! Palamunin ka na nga lang hindi ka pa marunong rumespeto!" Namilog ang mga mata niya noong bigla na lang siya nitong hilahin sa buhok at kaladkarin sa labas ng bahay. "T-ita, nagkakamali kayo! Sinubukan niya akong dalhin sa kwartoโ" "Wala akong pakialam! Napakalandi mo at pati boyfriend ko inaakit mo!" sigaw nito bago siya tinulak sa labas ng pinto. Muntik na siyang sumubsob sa lupa kun'di siya nakabalanse. Malakas pa nitong sinarado ang pinto ngunit bumalik para lang itapon sa pagmumukha niya ang iilang damit. "Lumayas ka at huwag kang babalik dito! Hindi ko kailangan ng malanding pamangkin!" sobrang lakas na sigaw nito na nakapagpalabas sa mga kapitbahay nila. Hiyang-hiya siya noong magbulungan ang mga iyon. Nayakap na lang niya ang mga damit at ang alkansyang baboy niyang tinapon nito sa kanyang paanan. Nagbagsakan ang mga luha niya. Gusto niyang ipaglaban na bahay iyon ng Mama niya ngunit alam niyang hindi na makikinig ang tiyahin niya. Tinago na lang niya ang mukha sa mga damit na hawak at mabilis na nagtawag ng tricycle. Nagpunta siya kila Nica at maging ito ay gigil na gigil sa tiyahin niya at kay Richard matapos niyang magkwento. "Ipabarangay mo, Lei. Wala siyang karapatan sa bahay na iyon. Sa'yo iyon! Pati ang negosyo ng Mama mo, sa'yo iyon! Pinagkaitan ka niya, lahat ng pera ng Mama mo siya ang nagwaldas. Hmp! Kumukulo ang dugo ko sa Tita Agnes mo!" Umakto pa itong manunugod ngunit pinigilan niya sa siko at umiling dito. "H-uwag na, Nica. Hindi ko na rin naman gugustuhing bumalik doon lalo na kung naroon si Richard." "Pero paano ka? Saan ka titira? Paano ang pag-aaral mo? Patapos na tayo, Lei. Bayad na rin ang tuition fee mo." Bumagsak ang tingin niya sa sahig at nanlabo ang mga mata. Hindi niya rin alam kung paano malalagpasan iyon pero pinilit niyang maghanap ng trabaho at apartment na maliit. Sakto lang sa kanya ngunit pagod na pagod nga lang siya bilang waitress ng eatery. Makailang beses tuloy siyang nakatulog sa klase at ang huli ay nahuli pa siya ng lalaking matandang professor niya. "Miss Carpio, alam mong bawal matulog sa klase ko." Napalunok siya at hindi mapigilan ang mga pumipikit na mga mata, "S-orry, Sir. Hindi na po mauulit." Umismid ito at lumayo ngunit noong makita siya na muling pumikit ay galit na siya nitong pinalabas. Nanghihina tuloy siyang napakapit sa pader ng hallway. Naghabol ng paghinga at pakiramdam niya ay umiikot ang paligid niya. Isang hakbang pa ay alam niyang sinakop na siya ng dilim. Noong magising ay nasa tabi na niya si Nica na mukhang kinabahan. Mabilis pa itong umalalay noong pilitin niyang umupo. "Ano'ng nangyari? Tsaka bakit ako nasa clinic, Nica?" Natameme ito ngunit nangilid ang luha sa gilid ng mga mata. Binugso tuloy siya ng kaba at napatitig dito. "B-akit, Nica?" Suminghot ito, "B-untis ka, Lei." Tila nawalan siya ng paghinga sa narinig mula dito. Napalunok siya at nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata. "Hindi gumamit ng proteksyon ang nakasama mo sa initiation, Lei. Binuntis ka niya," sobrang hinang sambit nito. Bumagsak ang luha niya at nanginginig ang kamay na dumapo sa impis niyang tiyan. "Patakaran ng Fraternity nila na gumamit ng proteksyon, pero dahil buntis ka... sigurado akong hindi siya gumamit no'n," patuloy pa nitong paliwanag ngunit naba-blangko na ang isip niya lalo't hindi na niya alam ang sunod na gagawin sa buhay niya. "P-aano ko siya mahahanap, Nica? Paano na ako? Hindi ko pa kaya." Tuloy - tuloy na naglandas ang mga luha niya habang inaalala ang pangalan ng lalaki. "Phoenix. Tama, Phoenix ang pangalan niya, Nica. Hanapin na'tin. Itanong na'tin kay Alicia," pagsusumamo niya sa kaibigan ngunit umiling ito. "Phoenix is just a code name, Lei. Sigurado akong hindi rin siya kilala ni Alicia lalo na kung isa siya sa mga leader," sagot nito na nagpabagsak sa mga balikat niya. "Tingin ko, sinadya niyang buntisin ka," muling sambit nito na nagpakuyom sa kamao niya. FIVE YEARS LATER Para siyang pinutulan ng pakpak dahil sa nangyaring iyon sa buhay niya. Wala siyang choice noon kun'di tumigil sa pag-aaral at magpokus sa trabaho para may pera pagkapanganak niya. Sinubukan naman niyang hanapin ang lalaki, pati nga si Alicia ay ginulo niya ngunit bigla na lang itong naglaho na parang bula. Pati ang kaibigan niyang si Nica ay bigla ring nawala at hindi alam kung saan napunta kaya natakot siyang maghaluglog pa ng impormasyon. Ang tanging nalaman niya ay leader ng Alpha Omega Fraternity ang lalaking nakakuha sa pagkabirhen niya. Limang taon na ang lumipas ngunit hindi niya talaga makakalimutan ang nangyaring iyon lalo't dalawang supling ang pabaon sa kanya ng lalaki. "Mama, wait ka namin mamaya. Promise mo bibili po tayo ng toys?" Kumurap-kurap pa sa kanya ang biluging mga mata ng anak niyang babaeng si Odessy. Marahan siyang lumuhod at inayos ang pagkaka-pigtail ng buhok nito. "Promise! Huwag kang lalayo kay Achi ah? Makinig kay teacher," habilin niya dito bago marahang hinila din palapit ang anak niyang lalaking si Achilles. "Mama, iyong book. Isa na lang bilhin mo po, share na lang kami ni Ody," marahang paalala sa kanya ni Achilles. Pilit siyang ngumiti sa mga ito. Parehong nasa daycare ang dalawa. Pinipilit niyang maibigay lahat ng pangangailangan nila pero sobrang hirap lalo't hindi siya tapos ng kolehiyo at hindi makahanap ng trabahong mataas ang pasahod. "Hindi pwede, Achi. Kailangan tig-isa kayo. Doon kayo sasagot. Ako ng bahala. Bantayan mo ang kapatid mo. Baka makipag-away." Ginulo niya pa ang buhok ito at marahang kinurot ang hindi kalakihang pisngi. "Pwede naman ako sa papel lang sasagot, Mama," pilit nito na inilingan niya. Ayaw niya ng ganoon. Hindi niya ipagkakait ang magandang edukasyon sa mga anak niya. Hindi hangga't nabubuhay siya. "Si Mama na bahala. Ubusin niyo baon niyo. Okii?" Malawak na ngumiti si Ody sa kanya at humawak sa braso ng kapatid. Si Achi man ay pilit na ngumiti. "Mama, ingat!" sabay pang sigaw ng dalawa bago maglakad papasok sa classroom. Pinigilan niya ang naninikip na dibdib matapos tumama sa liwanag ng araw ang mga mata ng mga ito at masilayan kung paanong naging kayumanggi ang mga itim na mga mata ng mga ito. Ilang beses na niyang hinanap sa mga lalaki ang ganoong klase ng mata. Maitim kapag walang araw ngunit kulay kayumanggi kapag nasinagan. Hindi ganoon ang mga mata niya kaya sigurado siyang namana ng dalawa iyon sa mga ama ng mga ito. Hindi rin siya naniniwalang sinadya siyang buntisin ng lalaking iyon dahil hanggang ngayon, walang nagpapakilala para akuin ang mga anak niya. Bumuga siya ng hangin at agad na nagtungo sa opisina ng abogadong amo niya. Ngunit masamang balita ang bumungad sa kanya. "I'm really sorry, Lei. Ipapasara na ang firm. Sa bahay na muna magtatrabaho ang asawa ko at ako na muna ang sekretarya niya. Pasensya ka na. Huling sahod mo na 'to." Nilapit pa ni Misis Alvarez ang sobre sa kanya. Napalunok siya at napatitig doon. Dalawang taon na siyang sekretarya ni Mr. Alvarez at hindi naman lingid sa kaalamam niyang pabagsak na ang firm nito. Nilunok na lang niya ang bikig sa lalamunan niya. Sigurado siyang mahihirapan na naman siyang maghanap ng trabaho. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Umikot na rin sa isip niya ang mga bayarin niya. Simula sa renta sa bahay, sa kuryente, allowance ng kambal, at mga bayarin sa eskwela. "W-ala po ba kayong kilala na... pwede kong lipatan, Misis Alvarez?" Bumuntong hininga ang Ginang, "Tatawagan ko ang kakilala ko, Hija. Itatanong ko kung may alam siyang naghahanap ng sekretarya pero hindi ako nangangako. Tatawagan na lang kita." Bagsak ang balikat na umalis siya doon. Halos hindi siya makalunok matapos bilangin ang iilang libong sahod niya para sa buwan na iyon. Tubig nga lang ang binili niya sa convenience store habang nagtitingin - tingin sa diyaryo. Kahit ano'ng trabaho papatusin na niya kaysa walang trabaho sa loob ng ilang buwan. "Tanggal na naman?! Pang ilan na 'yan ngayong buwan. Ano bang gusto niya? Single? Walang single na babae ang papatol sa gusto ni Mr. Montanier โFine, Eman. Ako na ang maghahanap ng bago niyang sekretarya. Kainis!" Nagpantig ang tainga niya sa narinig at mabilis na napaangat ng tingin sa Ginang na aburidong binaba ang hawak na cellphone. Mabilis siyang tumayo noong akma itong lalabas sa convenience store. Nagulat ito noong pigilan niya sa braso. "Bakit, Hija?" Kumunot ang noo nito sa kanya. Sa tantiya niya ay nasa edad forty-five na ito base na rin sa iilang litaw na puting buhok. "N-aghahanap po kayo ng sekretarya?" kabadong tanong niya. Literal na pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Sa kaba niya ay nabitiwan niya ang braso nito. "May asawa ka?" Mabilis siyang umiling, "Wala po!" Tumango ito at nilahad ang kamay kaya mabilis niyang nilagay doon ang resume niya. Mabilis nitong pinasadahan ang papel bago pinasok sa bag nito. "Tanggap ka na. Sumama ka sa'kin." Walang pagdadalawang isip siyang sumama sa Ginang. Imbis na sa kumpanya ay sa malaki at modernong bahay siya dinala. Sa isang exclusive subdivision iyon. Babasagin ang dingding at kumikinang ang mga mamahaling mwebles ng bahay. Kulay abo at puti ang bahay kaya sigurado siyang lalaki ang magiging amo niya. "Ako si Melia, Hija. Pinaka-sekretarya ni Sir Hector. Bukod sa'kin, may isa pa siyang sekretarya, si Eman. Pareho kaming sa kumpanya at kailangan pa ng isa pang sekretarya ni Sir Hector. On-call at kung pwede ay stay-in." Natigilan siya sa sinabi nito, "Stay-in po?" Hindi pwede sa kanya ang trabahong ganoon lalo na kung hindi pwedeng dalhin ang mga anak niya. "Bawal ba, Hija? Kaya tinanong kita kung may asawa ka. Madalas na magtrabaho sa bahay si Hector. Workholic at umaabot ng madaling araw. Kailangan na may magremind sa kanya sa schedule at dapat niyang pirmahan. Hindi naman madalas na stay-in pero paglalaanan na kita ng kwarto dito. Wala ka naman din sigurong anak di ba? Gusto niya ay single, walang extra baggage at kaya ang trabaho. Sana naman ikaw na ang huli at magtatagal dito sa bahay niya," patuloy na paliwanag nito. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Kung ganoon hindi niya pwedeng sabihin na may kambal siyang anak. "Maglipat ka na ng iilang gamit mo. Pwede kang bumalik bukas ng umaga para pag-usapan ang sahod mo. Nasa event pa si Sir Hector at madaling araw pa babalik. Lahat ng gamit dito pwede mong gamitin. Kung masipag ka, linisin mo na rin, may dagdag sahod naman. Isabay mo na rin ang kwarto niya." "Hindi po ba nakakatakot si Sir Hector?" Natigil ito sa tanong niya. Pagkaraan ay tinuro ang malaking portrait sa sala. Sinundan niya iyon ng tingin. Nagtaasaan ang mga balahibo niya sa klase ng tingin nito sa camera. Galit maging ang magkasalubong nitong makapal na kilay. Walang ngiti ang manipis na labi at mabalbas na panga. Halata ring matigas ang panga nito. At ang ilong, sobrang tangos! Maging ang buhok nitong nakasuklay palikod ay kumikinang sa larawan. Higit sa lahat, litaw ang matipunong dibdib nitong may makapal na balahibo. Sa larawan ay seryoso itong nag-aayos sa relong pambisig. "He's Hector Montanier and he's a perfectionist. So please, beware. Huwag kang gumawa ng bagay na ikakagalit niya kung ayaw mong mawalan agad ng trabaho, Hija," madiing paalala nito kaya napalunok siya. Kaya niya ba? Kaya niya bang pagsilbihan ang lalaking sa larawan pa lang ay mukhang papatay na? Paano pa sa personal? Baka hindi na siya makahinga kapag nakaharap ito. "Gusto ka niyang makausap." Gulat pa siya noong ilahad ni Miss Melia ang cellphone sa kanya. Nanginginig ang kamay niyang tinanggap iyon at nilagay sa tainga niya. Dinig niya ang mahinang musika sa background ngunit mas dinig niya ang mabibigat nitong paghinga. "Your name?" swabe at malamig ang boses nito kaya nahigit niya ang paghinga. "L-orelei Carpio po, Sir." Mahina ngunit marahas na paghinga ang narinig niya mula dito. "Lorelei, hmm," namamaos na sambit nito sa pangalan niya at hindi niya alam kung bakit naghatid iyon ng kakaibang init sa kaibuturan niya. Mabilis niyang binalik ang cellphone kay Miss Melia. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya at hindi kayang kausapin ang bagong boss niya. "B-abalik na lang po ako bukas," tarantang paalam niya. Kahit hindi pa ito um-oo ay lumabas na siya ng bahay na iyon. May mali sa pakiramdam niya. Bakit ganoon? Bakit pakiramdam niya buong boses nito ang humagod sa katawan niya? Iniisip niya pa kung narinig na ba niya iyon noon, pamilyar ngunit hindi niya maalala. "Lorelei, hmm." Muling umulit sa isipan niya ang pagtawag nito sa kanya. Naipagdikit niya ang mga hita lalo't tila namasa ang nasa pagitan ng mga iyon. Bumigat ang paghinga niya. Parang ayaw na niyang tanggapin ang trabaho lalo na kung araw - araw niyang makakasalamuha si Hector Montanier. Tulala tuloy siya noong sunduin ang kambal. Dinala niya pa sa malapit na bilihan ng laruan para na rin makalimutan niya ang pagtawag ni Sir Hector sa kanya. "Itong teddy bear na lang, Mama. Kapag barbie, ako lang ang maglalaro, kapag car naman, si Achi lang. Pero itong bear, pwede kaming share, Mama!" Masiglang tinaas pa ni Ody ang maliit na puting teddy bear. Nahabag siya sa mga ito. Hindi man lang niya maibili ng kahit tig-isang laruan. Hindi man lang niya mapakain sa sikat na fastfood ang mga anak. Mabilis siyang tumango ngunit umiwas ng tingin noong mapansin ang paninitig ni Achi sa kanya. Binayaran na lang niya ang teddy bear para makauwi na sila. Akala niya ay nakaligtas na siya sa mapanuring titig ng anak ngunit hindi. "Mama, iyong book. Kailangan na raw bilhin. Isa na lang, Mama. Kay Ody na lang. Kung hindi pwede, sa susunod na lang po ako mag-aral," kalmadong pagkausap ni Achi sa kanya. Parang pinilipit ang puso niya. Hindi niya hahayaan na mangyari iyon! Hindi deserve ng mga anak niya na maranasan ang nangyari sa kanya. "Hindi, Achi. Bibilhin natin bukas iyon. May bago na akong trabaho." Pinisil niya pa muli ang pisngi nito. Namula nga iyon lalo na't sobrang puti ng dalawa. Ang balak tuloy niyang pagtanggi na sa trabaho ay naudlot. Mas kailangan niya pala iyon. Bahala na kung ano'ng klaseng tao si Sir Hector, basta siya, trabaho lang ang gusto niya. Kinabukasan ay kinausap niya ang mga ito na gagabihin siya. Ayaw niyang iwanan pero hindi niya pwedeng isama. Kung malaki ang sahod niya ay kukuha siya ng bantay para sa mga ito. Kabado siyang bumalik sa malaking bahay. Sa harap pa lang ng pinto ay kumakalabog na ang dibdib niya. Kita na niya roon ang mamahaling sport car na wala kahapon. Nanginginig tuloy ang kamay niyang i-input ang code na pinadala pa sa mensahe ni Miss Melia upang mabuksan niya ang pinto. Pagbukas ay tumambad sa kanya ang pares ng mamahaling itim na sapatos. Pinulot niya iyon upang maitabi. Ngunit nabaling ang atensyon niya sa mahinang hilik sa sala. Kinakabahan siyang lumapit. Tumingkayad para lang masilip ang bagong boss niyang mahimbing ang tulog sa sofa. Halos hindi nga ito magkasya doon sa laki ng katawan. Ang isang binti nito ay nasa sahig habang ang isa ay nasa arm rest. Unan nito ang namumutok na braso at higit sa lahat ay bukas ang suot nitong puting longsleeve kaya't malaya niyang nasilayan ang makapal na balahibo sa matipuno nitong dibdib. Napalunok siya at imbis na lumiko ay umakyat ang tingin niya sa awang nitong mga labi. Namumula at nakasilip pa ang pantay-pantay na puting ngipin nito. Sa totoo lang, para itong modelo ng brief at toothpaste na lumabas sa magazine. Pati panga ay naninigas at sigurado siyang hindi basta-basta ang alaga nito sa ibaba. Ano bang pinag-iisip niya?! "Are you done checking me out, Miss?" namamaos pang bigkas nito bigla kaya napasinghap siya. Nabitin sa ere ang paghinga niya at namilog ang mga mata noong magkatitigan sila. Inaantok pa ang itim nitong mga mata at sobrang haba ng mga pilikmata kaya lalo siyang hindi nakapagsalita. "Close your mouth. Your lips look so delectable," inaantok nitong bigkas muli ngunit iba ang dating ng boses sa kanya kaya nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Ang boses nito ay parang kagagaling sa nakakapagod na ehersisyo sa kama. Magaspang na namamaos. "Close them... please. I might kiss you if you keep drooling on me. Do you want me... to take you here?" biglang tanong nito kaya namula lalo ang mga pisngi niya. Para siyang naeskandalo at hindi na makatingin dito ngunit nahuli niya ang pag-angat ng gilid ng labi nito. Hindi iyon ngiti kun'di maliit na ngisi. Lumitaw pa sa kanang gilid ng labi nito ang hindi kalalimang dimple. "Just kidding. Let's talk inside my office," bawi nito bago biglang bumangon. Mabilis siyang umiwas at napayuko noong basta na lang ito nag-alis ng butones ng longsleeve nito at swabe iyong hinubad. "Do I smell liquor?" mabigat na tanong nito kaya lang ay ayaw niyang lumingon dito kaya nanatili ang titig niya sa sahig. "I'm asking you. Amoy alak ba ako, Lorelei?" halos paos na naman ang boses nito kaya napapikit siya nang mariin. Iba talaga ang hagod ng boses nito sa katawan niya. Lahat ng balahibo niya ay nagtataasan at pati puson niya ay nakikiliti. Napalunok siya noong maramdaman ang paglapit nito. Pagmulat pa niya ay mabalahibong paa ang nakita niya sa harap ng mga paa niya. "N-o, Sir. H-indi po kayo amoy alak," kabadong sagot niya noong akma siya nitong hahawakan. Pag-angat ng tingin niya ay seryoso itong naninitig sa kanya. Salubong ang kilay. Hindi niya nga maitutok ang tingin sa mukha nito lalo't nakabalandra sa harap niya ang hubad nitong katawan. Bumigat ang paghinga niya at gusto na lang pindutin ang matitigas nitong muscles. "In my office," may awtoridad na nitong utos bago tumalikod. Napabuga siya ng hangin. Napapaypay sa sarili at hindi maiwasang manghina. Parang naubos ang lakas niya dito. Sinulyapan niya na lang ang matipuno nitong likod na pumasok sa isang pinto. Huminga siya nang malalim nang ilang beses at binalik ang mga sapatos sa sahig bago sumunod. Nakasandal na ito sa swivel chair at mukhang hinihintay siya. Nahuli niya agad ang mariing titig nito. "Here, Lorelei," malalim na sambit nito at marahang tinipa ang daliri nito sa mesa. Tahimik siyang lumapit kahit nahihiya. Na-conscious siya sa paninitig nito at pakiramdam niya ay hubad na siya sa isip nito. "I might require you to work 24/7, so make sure you don't have any extra baggage to attend to. Don't worry, I'll pay you triple or name your price," seryosong saad nito matapos iabot sa kanya ang blankong cheque na may pirma na nito. Napatitig siya doon ngunit hindi inasahan ang pagtayo nito at paglapit sa likod niya. Muli siyang naestatwa matapos maramdaman ang init ng paghinga nito sa bandang tainga at leeg niya. Hindi pa siya nakakilos noong lumapat sa bewang niya ang mainit at malaking palad nito. "S-ir," kabado niyang bigkas. "Single?" imbis ay tanong nito kaya mabilis siyang tumango. "Good. Birhen?" sunod na tanong nito kaya nanlaki ang mga mata niya. Hindi siya makasagot. Sasabihin ba niyang may anak na siya at kambal pa? Baka hindi siya nito tanggapin! "Y-es, Sir," pagsisinungaling niya. Marahas itong huminga na tila nahihirapan at nagpipigil. Napaangat nang bahagya ang balikat niya noong tumama doon ang matangos nitong ilong na tila inaamoy siya. Nakiliti pa siya sa mabalbas nitong pangang na humagod sa balat niya. "Perfect for me," halos dumikit pa ang labi nito sa paos nitong bulong kasabay ng pagdiin ng palad nito sa kanyang bewang na tila gusto na siyang sunggaban. Hindi niya alam na kanina pa niya pigil ang paghinga kung hindi lang ito lumayo. "Ikukuha kita ng dress. We'll attend an event," pinal na sambit nito kaya namilog ang mga mata niya. "Po? Sir, hindi po pwedeโ" Mas namilog ang mga niya noong tumama sa mga labi niya ang hintuturo nito upang patigilan siya. "Shhh. Sasama ka. You're now my secretary. Kung nasaan ako, doon ka." madiing sagot nito na akala mo ay hindi iyon big deal. Hindi siya makareklamo. Paglabas ng opisina nito ay gusto niyang ibalik ang cheque. Tinawagan niya rin si Miss Melia. "Hindi ka pwedeng umatras, Lorelei. Lagyan mo limang milyon iyang cheque niya para makabawi ka kung gusto mo. Kumpara sa mga nauna sa'yo, mas pabor si Sir Hector sa'yo. Mag-enjoy ka na lang sa event, Hija." Napirmi ang mga labi niya. Dapat pala pinag-isipan niyang mabuti. Napilitan tuloy siyang mag-ayos. Hindi pa siya kumportable sa baby blue cocktail dress na inorder nito. Yukong-yuko siya noong titigan nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya matapos masulyapan ang madiing titig nito. Para tuloy siyang hindi makahinga sa paninitig nito. Pakiramdam niya ay hinuhubaran na siya nito sa isip pa lang. "Chin up. You look... gorgeous," mahinang papuri nito. Sinubukan nitong hawakan ang bewang niya ngunit umiwas siya. Hilaw siyang ngumiti. "Alis na po tayo para agad makabalik, Sir." Nauna pa siya sa harap ng sasakyan nito. Nanliliit ang tingin nito noong pagbuksan siya ng pinto. Mali ba na umiwas dito? Boss niya ito at mali na magustuhan siya nito. Umikot ito sa driver seat noong makaupo na siya. Namroblema pa siya paano aayusin ang seatbelt ngunit nahigit niya ang hininga noong ito mismo ang umagaw sa seatbelt niya at nag-ayos no'n. Nasamyo niya tuloy ang matapang nitong pabango na may halong lemon. Akala pa niya ay ang air freshener pero hindi, amoy lemon talaga ito at masarap sa ilong. Maliit itong nangunguso noong paandarin ang sasakyan. Umiiwas siya ng tingin dito. Kumakalabog ang dibdib niya ngayong nasa isang sasakyan lang sila. Kinipkip niya pa ang bag sa mga hantad niyang hita. "How old are you, Lorelei?" biglang tanong nito na muntik magpatalon sa kanya sa upuan. "T-wenty five, Sir." "Hm. Never been touched? Never been kissed? And of course, never... Am I right?" senswal at bulgar nitong tanong. Tumiim bagang siya. Alam na niya ang kalibre nito kung bakit gusto nito ng Birhen. Sigurado siyang marami na rin itong naikama at delikado siya kung hindi siya mag-iingat. "I'm not comfortable with tbose questions, Sir," pag-amin niya. Hindi ito kumibo. Nasilip niya ang pagsasalubong ng kilay nito. Nakasandal na nga ang siko nito sa bintana at pinaglalaruan ng mga daliri nito ang ibabang labi nito. Isang kamay lang ang gamit nitong pagdrive. Nakarolyo ang asul na manggas ng longsleeve at ang lakas manampal ng kayamanan ng mamahaling relo nito. "Would you like to pretend to be my girlfriend?" biglang tanong nito sa kawalan. "Po?" Umigting ang panga nito, "My ex will be there with her new boytoy. Ayoko talagang magpunta na mag-isa, but I have to show up. It's business related. Ipapakilala kitang bagong girlfriend ko. Don't worry, I'll pay you for this," paliwanag nito. "Pero, Sirโ" "Just this once, Kitty. After this, you can be just my plain secretary." Napakurap siya at napalinga pa sa backseat kung sino ang tinawag nitong Kitty. "Cute, Kitten," nangingising sambit nito sa reaksyon niya. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Walanghiya! Siya pala ang pusa! Wala rin siyang nagawa noong pagdating nila sa event ay ito mismo ang nag-ayos sa braso niya pakapit sa braso nito. "Just stay beside me, Kitty. Smile as if you are head over heels for me," nakangising paalala nito. Sa dami ng mga bigating tao ay naging peke ang ngiti niya. Sa isang pabilog silang mesa napunta at naupo. Ramdam niya agad ang titig ng isang babae sa kanya na tila gusto siyang patumbahin. "Oh gosh, you got a new girl, Hector. I'm happy for you, Hijo. Hindi sana magloko katulad ng nauna," ani ng isang Ginang na bobo kay Sir Hector. Tumabingi ang ngiti niya habang ang babaeng nakatitig sa kanya ay umirap. Humilig pa ito sa braso ng lalaking katabi. "We should go home early, Babe. Bawal magpuyat ang buntis," dinig niyang bulong nito sa lalaki. Ramdam niya ang paninigas ng katawan ni Hector at kahit nakangiti ito sa mga kausap ay pansin naman niya ang panaka-nakang pag-igting ng panga nito. "Alejandro and I are having a baby boy, Mrs. Sarmiento," dinig niyang sagot ng babae matapos itong tanungin sa pinagbubuntis. Hindi na nga niya ito nilingon bagkus ay natutok ang titig niya kay Hector na naging sunod-sunod ang inom ng alak. Hindi siya nakatiis at inagaw ang brandy na hawak nito at ininom iyon. "What are you doing?" bulong na tanong nito. "Hindi ka pwedeng malasing. Magda-drive ka pa," madiing bulong niya pabalik. Lumapit ito at nagtaasan ang mga balahibo niya noong dumikit ang ilong nito sa leeg niya. "My Kitty is concern," namamaos nitong bulong kasabay pa ng pagdapo ng mainit nitong palad sa hita niya. Ginalaw niya ang hita ngunit dumiin ang kapit nito. Wala tuloy sa sariling napainom siya ng alak. "Crizaa, come back here!" Nabaling ang atensyon niya sa lalaking Alejandro yata ang pangalan. Tinatawag nito ang babaeng masama ang titig sa kanya na nag-walk out ngayon lang. Doon lang nawala sa hita niya ang palad ni Hector. Lumagok pa ito ng alak bago tumayo. "Comfort room," paalam nito pero ang titig ay nasa babaeng papalayo. Hindi niya alam kung bakit nadismaya siyang sinundan nito ang babae. Umiwas na lang siya ng tingin at tahimik na uminom. "Ngayon lang kita nakita, Hija. Gaano na kayo katagal ni Hector? Anim na buwan pa lang naman kasi silang hiwalay ni Crizaa," baling sa kanya ng Ginang kanina. Hilaw siyang napangiti, "Three months po," pagsisinungaling niya. Napatango ito. Mabuti na lang at hindi na ito nagtanong muli dahil hindi na niya alam ang isasagot. Nakuha niyang makaubos ng alak ay hindi na bumalik si Hector. Nahihilo na nga siya noong magpunta sa parking lot para doon ito hintayin. Saktong kapapadala niya ng mensahe sa kapitbahay niyang si Ria para tingnan ang kambal noong mamataan si Hector. Napatuwid siya ng tayo noong makita na itong papalapit. Halatang galit kaya hindi na siya nagtanong. Agad na lang siyang pumasok sa sasakyan noong patunugin nito. Maging sa biyahe ay ramdam niya ang galit nito sa hindi malamang dahilan. Madiin ang hawak nito sa manibela. Isa lang ang sigurado niya. Nakausap nito si Crizaa at tiyak na nabigo ito lalo't noong pagdating nila sa bahay nito ay kitang-kita niya ang bumagsak na luha sa gilid ng mga mata nito. Nahabag siya dito, "Sirโ" "Go home, or if you want, you can sleep in one of the guestrooms. Thank you for today, Lorelei," pagtataboy nito sa kanya. Hindi niya alam kung dahil lang sa kalasingan kaya hindi niya ito maiwan. Naaawa siya rito. Agad siyang kumuha ng tissue, lumuhod sa upuan at inabot ang pisngi nito. Pareho pa silang natigilan noong hawakan nito ang kamay niya. "Don't. I'm not weak," pamimilit nito. Naamoy niya ang brandy sa hininga nito at sa malamang ay pareho lang silang may tama ng alak. Napalunok siya noong matitigan ang mga mata nitong dumilim. Balewala niyang pinunasan muli ang pisngi nito ngunit muli nitong pinigilan ang kamay niya. "S-irโ" "If you keep doing that, sa kama tayo babagsak. Umuwi ka bago pa magbago ang isip ko at ipinid ka sa kama," pagbabanta nito. May choice siya, pinapatakas siya nito pero ang katawan niya ay ayaw kumilos. Baka dahil lasing siya. "Pagbilang ko ng lima, lumabas ka na ng sasakyan. I have no mercy when it comes to bed, Kitten," mabigat na bulong nito. Nanuyo ang lalamunan niya at mas lalong hindi nakakilos. "One," pagsisimula nito, nagsimula rin ang mainit nitong palad na umakyat sa hita niya. "Two, get out, Kitty," sobrang paos na sambit na nito habang ang kamay ay nahanap ang garter ng underwear niya. "P-ero, Sirโ" "Five. Pagmumura pa nito bago hatakin ang bewang niya at siilin siya ng halik. Mabilis nitong hinila ang bewang niya at pinaupo siya sa kandungan nito. Nahatak niya ang longsleeve nito matapos nitong ipasok ang dila sa bibig niya habang ang palad nito ay nahatak paalis ang underwear niya. Nahanap ng palad nito ang pagkababae niya at diniin ang daliri doon na kinasinghap niya. Hindi siya makasabay sa halik nito. Naliliyo siya maging sa paghagod ng mga daliri nito sa pagkababae niya. Nanigas ang mga tuhod niya sa kiliti sa puson niya at pamamasa. Hindi siya makahinga nang maayos. Inayos ng isang palad nito ang mga hita niya at pinwesto sa bawat gilid nito. Marahan itong dumukwang at halos isandal siya sa manibela masiil lang siya ng halik muli. Tuluyan na siyang hindi nakasagot ng halik matapos naging mabilis ang hagod ng mga daliri nito sa kanyang ibaba. Napapasinghap siya at ang maiksing katinuhan sa utak niya ay nasakop na ng impluwensya ng alak. "Ahh!" mahinang halinghing niya noong bumaba ang mga labi nito sa panga niya. "I'm giving you another chance to run. Run, Lorelei," udyok na bulong nito kahit pa binababa na nito ang zipper ng dress na suot niya. Napapikit siya. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya sa sobrang init. Bumakas sa mukha niya ang bahagyang ngiwi noong dumausdos papasok ang isang daliri nito. "Not running away? Baka di ka na makalakad bukas. I'm telling you, I'm big," paos at mabigat muli nitong bulong na tila nagtitimpi. Hindi niya alam ngunit lalo siyang namasa sa boses nito. Doon nga lang nag-sink sa kanya na kapag natuloy sila, malalaman nitong hindi na siya Birhen. Mabilis siyang napamulat sa naisip. Balak niya sana itong itulak ngunit paghigit sa damit nito ang nagawa niya noong dumagdag ang daliri nito sa loob niya at sunod-sunod na umulos. "Lintik" hingal niyang pagmumura. Paano pa siya tatakbo kung ang titig nito sa kanya ay nanlalapa? Maalab at alam niyang hindi na ito mapipigilan. Nagawa nitong alisin ang bestida niya. Nailiyad niya pa ang dibdib ngunit agad na sinakop ng mainit nitong bibig ang isa at halos ubusin nito. Nahatak niya ang braso nito upang doon kumuha ng balanse. hubad na siya lahat habang ito ay kumpleto pa ang suot. Pati ang relo sa bisig nito ay naroon pa. "Uhhhh, S-ir!" hiyaw niya noong lalong bumilis ang mga daliri nito sa loob niya. Hindi niya una iyon pero may hapdi pa rin sa kabila ng sensasyong nararamdaman niya. Bumalik tuloy ang alaala niya kung paano nabuo ang kambal niyang anak. Kagaya ni Sir Hector ang lalaki, may kalakihan ang katawan. Ang pinagkaiba lang ay may rahas ang kilos ni Sir Hector. Naitaas niya ang tuhod noong mamilipit sa sarap ang puson niya. Mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa bibig niya matapos maramdaman ang pag-abot niya sa rurok. Hindi tumigil ang mga daliri nito sa pag-ulos ngunit pinakawalan ng bibig nito ang dibdib niya. Naghahabol siya ng hininga noong nilayuan nito ang leeg niya at dibdib. Wala sa sariling nakagat niya pa ang ibabang labi sa paghugot nito sa mga daliri nito. Gulantang nga lang siyang makitang sisubo nito ang mga iyon. "Sir!" pigil niya dito ngunit wala na, napapikit na ito sa pagsubo no'n. Agad pang ngumisi at bahagyang pumasada ang dila sa ibabang labi nito na tila hindi pa ito kuntento. "Addictive," sobrang paos na sambit nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Alam niyang may tama rin ito sa alak kaya nasabi iyon pero hiyang-hiya siya! Hindi pa siya nakababawi noong marinig ang pagbukas nito sa pinto. Napalunok siya at napakapit sa mga balikat nito noong buhatin siya sa ganoong ayos. Inikot pa nito ang mga hita niya sa bewang nito. "You're Birhen. This will hurt. Hindi pwede sa sasakyan. Saka na... kapag sanay ka na," namimigat nitong bulong na nagpatigil sa paghinga niya. Kumalabog ang dibdib niya. Dumiin ang kapit sa balikat nito noong pumasok ito sa bahay at iakyat siya sa kwarto. Marahan pa siya nitong binagsak sa kama ngunit mabilis na lumuhod sa sahig. Sumisinghap pa lang siya ng paghinga ay pinag-hiwalay na nito ang mga hita niya at agad na sinubsob ang bibig nito sa pagkababae niya. "Sir! Uhโohh!" Pinatigas agad nito ang dila at tinukso-tukso siya. Alam na alam nito ang gagawin. Nawala na nga sa isip niyang hindi pa siya nakapag-shave pero kung hagurin ng dila nito ang ibaba niya ay tila paboritong pagkain nito iyon. "Ahh!" Nailiyad niya ang katawan at naitaas ang bewang na mabilis nitong hinila upang mas maidiin ang bibig nito doon. Ang ngipin nito ay sumasabay kaya halos mahila na niya nang buo ang bedsheet sa nararamdamang init. Pinagpawisan na siya kahit pa malakas ang aircon sa kwarto nito. Hindi yata ito tumigil hangga't hindi naririnig ang mahabang ungol niya, senyales na muli niyang naabot ang langit. Hindi niya maisara ang bibig sa pagsimot nito doon. Kahit noong tumayo na ito ay nanghihina siya at hindi maisara ang mga hita niya. Maliit niyang minulat ang mga mata. Huli niya ang mainit nitong titig sa katawan niya habang nagtatanggal ng kasuotan. Pati mamahaling relo nito ay basta lang nito tinapon sa sofa. Ora mimso noong mahubad nito ang mamahaling boxer short ay gumapang ito sa itaas niya. "Ibuka ang iyong mga binti nang mas malawak, Kitty," senswal nitong utos. Kumakalabog lalo ang dibdib niya at nanunuyo ang lalamunan kahit pa sa hita pa lang niya dumikit ang naghuhumigting nitong sandata. Palad na mismo nito ang humagod sa mga hita niya at mas pinaghiwalay ang mga iyon. Napapikit siya noong tuluyang tumama ang sandata nito sa kaselanan niya. Paulit-ulit na humagod na tila tinutukso siya. Pati ang ilong at bibig nito ay panaka-nakang humalik sa leeg at panga niya na tila dinidistract siya nito. "Sir~" hirap niyang bulong at napakapit sa matigas nitong braso noong maramdaman ang dulo ng sandata nito. Tama ito! Malaki ito at duda siyang kakasya sa kanya. Baka muli lang siyang mapunit nito! Ang balak niyang pagtulak sana dito ay nauwi sa pagkapit sa braso nito noong pilitin nito ang pagpasok. Sumigid ang sakit sa kanya at halos magdugo ang labi sa pagkagat niya. Iyon ang pangalawang beses niya pero sa tagal na siguro ng panahon ay pakiramdam niya, unang beses pa lang niya iyon. Kita niyang umigting ang panga nito at tumalim ang tingin. Kinabahan siyang baka nahuli na siya nito pero nahanap nito ang mga palad niya at parehong pininid sa itaas ng ulo niya. Pinagsalikop nito ang mga kamay nila bago sinagad ang pagpasok na kinahiyaw niya. "Ahh!" Hindi niya ito mapalo, hindi niya mabawi ang mga nakapinid na kamay. Pinuno naman nito ng halik ang mukha niya. "Soon, the pain will fade away, Kitty," panunuyong bulong nito. Hindi na niya makilala ang sariling paghinga. Hinayaan siya nitong kumalma ngunit hindi rin ito nakatiis at nagsimulang umulos nang mabagal. Dinidiinan na lang niya ang kapit sa mga kamay nito kapag sinasagad nito nang buo sa loob niya. Dinig niya ang magaspang nitong ungol at tila nahihirapan ding bumayo sa loob niya. Para itong nagtitimpi sa mabagal na paggalaw. "H-indi ka gumamit ng goma, Sir," wala sa sariling sambit niya. "Doesn't matter. I will do withdrawal, don't worry," pagpapakalma nito. Ilang beses siyang lumunok. Ang balakang niya ay napapataas noong bumilis nang bahagya ang galaw nito. Malinaw sa pandinig niya ang pagsusumpungan ng mga kaselanan nila. Nangangalay ang mga hita niya sa pagkakahiwalay at halos lumubog sa kama sa laki ng katawan nito. "Ow!" malakas niyang hiyaw na hindi niya alam kung ilang beses niya naisigaw noong dumoble ang bilis nito. Para itomg may hinahabol at hindi magkamayaw. Ang kama nito ay tumutunog kasabay ng tunog ng kanilang mga katawan. Para itong nawala sa sarili at nagsunod-sunod ang pagbayo sa loob niya. Naghalo ang pawis nila at maging mga ungol. Napuno ang kwarto ng mga hiyaw niya. Nanghihina na siya noong maramdamang malapit na siya. Nagmadali rin ito at sunod sunod ang ulos hanggang sa magkapanabay silang mapaungol. Pinakawalan nito ang mga kamay niya kasabay ng mainit na likidong bumuhos sa loob niya. Parang tumigil ang tibok ng puso niya. Sa loob nito pinutok! Kinabahan siya. Hinihingal itong bumagsak sa itaas niya. "Sleep, Kitty," inaantok pa nitong bulong. Nataranta siya at gusto itong itulak ngunit napakalaki nito. Sumiksik pa ito sa dibdib niya at wala yatang pakialam kahit nasa loob pa niya ang sandata nito! "Sir, uuwi po ako," pilit niyang gising at tulak dito ngunit humigpit ang yakap nito sa bewang niya. "Later, stay still. Huwag kang gagalaw. Huwag mong gisingin," halos bulong na lang na sambit nito. Nanlamig siya sa tinutukoy nito. Pati tuloy paghinga niya ay napigilan niya huwag lang magising ang sandata nito. Para siyang timang na naghintay na humiwalay ito ngunit hindi niya rin namalayang nakatulog na siya. Paggising ay sikat ng araw ang tumama sa mga mata niya. Nasilaw siya at nahirapang magmulat ng mga mata. Masakit ang katawan niya, partikular ang pagkababae niya at mga hita. Doon nga lang din rumehistro sa kanya ang nangyari kagabi. "Punyeta!" napamura siya matapos matantong umaga na pero naroon pa rin siya sa kwarto ni Sir Hector. Mabilis niyang nilingon ang katabi ngunit wala na ito doon. Hindi na nga niya maalala kung ano'ng oras ito umalis sa itaas niya. Hihinga na sana siya nang maluwag kung hindi lang naramdaman ang madiing titig sa kanya na tumatagos sa balat niya. Napalunok siya at unti-unting napatingin sa harap niya. Sumikdo ang dibdib niya at nahila ang kumot. Naroon sa paanan niya si Sir Hector, nakaayos na ng business suit, nakapamulsa habang may hawak na baso ng brandy. Pinaghalong madiin at malamig na titig ang natanggap niya dito at noong liningon nito ang kama na walang bahid ng dugo, alam na niya agad ang nasa isip nito. "S-ir, m-agpapaliwanag po ako," sobrang kabang sambit niya lalo't tumalim ang titig nito at umigting ang panga. | Philip Spicy Reading | 83301 | https://www.facebook.com/61561349855790/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679739 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567645 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Quote: Starting at $59 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474060166_1330236698109906_7085573860794928411_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wn24fOUoqqgQ7kNvgGpahnX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYAJbj_EhlWJrblONvgocYbCJuNkjBKKt5b0UpuwAH9ovQ&oe=67A652FF | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679648 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567632 | 1745816686 | 2451 | www.cdnjkfiw.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐Mga Anak ng Bilyonaryo๐ | https://www.cdnjkfiw.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=17755&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 3.8701676448549E+14 | Philip Spicy Reading | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474542921_1161048232205309_3098354922792085361_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WQo-Dce-ZhwQ7kNvgGUMpnr&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYBhN7GjqSQRFCd8-AIl_4Y9ixP_6YbTennONuMKpakEwQ&oe=67A639DF | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Madiing tinali ni Lorelei ang sintas ng luma niyang sapatos. Kalahating oras na lang ay magsisimula na ang klase niya ngunit hinihintay niya pa ang perang ibibigay ng kanyang Tita Agnes. Pang-huling taon na niya sa kolehiyo sa kursong business management. Gusto niya ay siya na ang mag-manage sa maliit na restaurant na iniwan ng yumao niyang ina na hawak ng Tita niya. Nagsalubong ang mga kilay niya at napasandal sa lumang sofa matapos marinig ang halinghing ng Tita niya mula sa kwarto. Sigurado siyang naroon na naman ang kinakasama nitong lalaki na si Richard. "Idiin mo, Richard!" dinig pa niyang sigaw ng Tita niya. Naiiling siyang pumikit. Maya-maya pa matatapos ang mga ito kaya naman tumayo na siya at kumatok sa pinto ng kwarto. "Tita, aalis na po ako." "Oh! Ode umalis kaโRichard!" muling hiyaw pa nito. "Iyong pera ko po," paalala niya pa rito ngunit daing at halinghing ang sagot nito. Paulit-ulit niyang kinatok ang pinto. Ang huling bigay nito ay limangdaan na pinagkasya niya ng isang linggo. Ayaw naman niyang basagin ang alkansyang baboy niya na mamiso lang ang laman. Nabitin sa ere ang pagkatok niya noong bumukas ang pinto. Niluwa no'n si Richard na pawisin, tanging basketball short ang suot, may hawak din itong libo-libong pera sa kamay. Namumutok ang mga braso nito at halos masakop ang pinto sa laki ng katawan. Mukha pa itong aburido noong tumingin sa kanya kaya napaatras siya. "Istorbo," parinig pa nito bago siya lagpasan. Napamaang siya at agad na pumasok sa kwarto. Huli niya pang nagsusuot pa lang ng t-shirt ang Tita niya. "Pera lang ang habol sa'yo ni Richard, Tita. Hiwalayan mo na iyon. Ang laki ng katawan no'n at kaya no'n ang magtrabahoโ" "Huwag kang makialam sa desisyon ko at hindi naman kita anak. Ikaw ang lumayas kung gusto mo. Bukas makalawa ay dito na titira si Richard. Mas maganda siguro kung humanap ka na ng ibang matitirahan at baka maging kaagaw pa kita sa kanya. Malaki ka na, kaya mo na ang sarili mo," pinal nitong sambit bago nagsuot ng underwear. Nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata niya, "Ginagatasan ka lang ng pera ni Richard, Titaโ" "Oh ayan, dalawang libo para matikom iyang bibig mo. Huling baon mo na iyan. Gagamitin ni Richard ang pera at magtatayo siya ng talyer." Mas lalo siyang nanlumo, "Hindi po pwede iyon. Pera ni Mama ang mga iyan. Kita sa restaurant niya, Tita. Huwag naman po kayong magpabilog kay Richard!" hindi niya mapigilang ilakas ang boses niya. Napalunok pa siya at natakot noong tumayo ito at lumapit sa kanya. Matalim na ang tingin nito. "Aba! Ano'ng pera ng Mama mo? Ilagay mo sa kokote mong matagal ng patay ang Mama mo at akin na ang restaurant na iyon. Pinag-aral at pinakain na kita. Nasa tamang edad ka na at kaya mo ng magtrabaho." Ilang beses pa nitong tinulak-tulak ang noo niya. "Hala sige, layas!" galit pa nitong sigaw bago siya itulak palabas ng pinto. Pinigil niya ang mga luha. Bandang huli ay hindi niya nakuha ang dalawang libong bigay nito. Nanghiram pa tuloy siya ng pera kay Nica. "Paano ang OJT mo? Titigil ka kailan huling taon na, Lei?" Nasapo niya ang noo at napasubsob sa mesa. Simula noong maging boyfriend ng Tita niya si Richard ay naging ganoon na ang Tita niya. "Ewan ko. Hindi ko na alam, Nica." Bumikig ang lalamunan niya sa badyang pag-iyak. Ni hindi niya pinansin ang grupong lumapit sa kanila. "Si Alicia," bulong pa sa kanya ni Nica. Si Alicia ang pinakasikat sa university nila. Mayaman, makinis, at madaming kakilala. Napasilip pa siya rito. Malaki ang ngiti nito, litaw ang naka-braces na ngipin. Ni hindi gumagalaw ang kulot na buhok na kulay blonde. Napaayos siya ng upo noong maglapag ito ng papel. "We're recruiting members for our sorority. You might want to join. Tonight is the initiation," magiliw nitong saad. Nangunot ang noo niya. Alam niyang hindi magandang sumali sa sorority ngunit noong mabasa niya ang mga benefits sa papel ay napalunok siya. "Free education and free allowance. Mayayaman lahat ng kasali at mga iilang negosyante. Nagpaparami lang kami ng miyembro. No fees, all free. Don't worry about the initiation, hindi naman iyon masakit. I would love to see both of you tonight." Kumindat pa ito bago umalis kasama ang dalawa pang alagad nito. "Maganda ang benefits nila, Lei. Solve ang problema mo kapag sumali tayo." Dumukwang ito at nilapit ang tainga sa kanya, "Tsaka alam mo ba, balita ko may kasapi silang Fraternity na puro gwapo," dagdag na bulong nito bago humagikhik. Wala siyang pakialam sa mga gwapo. Ang kagustuhan niyang makatapos ng kolehiyo ang nagtulak sa kanyang sumali. Makailang beses niya pang sinuklay ang malambot, tuwid, at maitim na hanggang balikat niyang buhok. Ginamit niya rin ang lipbalm upang malambot tingnan ang mga labi niya. Kaunting polbo lang ay sinuot na niya ang puting lumang bestida niyang abot hanggang tuhod at sandalyas na naging dirty white na. Kabado pa siya noong makarating sa hideout ng mga ito. Nasa pila na rin si Nica na agad kumaway sa kanya. Mabilis siyang lumapit. "Piliin raw natin iyong sarap sabi ni Alicia. Lahat kasi ng pumili ng hirap ay dinadala sa kabila at nakakatanggap ng hampas at palo," bulong nito. "Huh? Akala ko ba hindi masakit ang initiation nila?" "Hindi nga kapag sarap ang pinili mo. Basta, doon tayo sa turo ni Alicia. Ayokong magkapeklat, Lei." Napalunok siya at hindi mawari ang kaba sa dibdib niya. Makailang beses niya pang pinisil ang mga kamay. "Nica Fernandez!" sigaw ng lalaking tingin niya ay bouncer. Nagtaas ng kamay ang kaibigan niya bago humarap sa kanya. "Tandaan mo ang pipiliin mo, Lei. Iyon ang pipiliin ko. Magkita na lang tayo ulit bukas. Para sa pangarap, Lei!" pagpapasigla pa nito ngunit hindi niya masuklian ng ngiti. Siya na ang kasunod pagkatapos nito ngunit hindi na siya mapakali. May tatlo pang babae sa likod niya at dinig niyang pipiliin din ng mga ito ang pinapapili sa kanya ni Nica. "Lorelei Carpio!" Napaigtad siya sa malakas na sigaw ng bouncer. Muntik pa siyang madapa sa pagkataranta para lang makalapit. Tumuwid siya ng tayo. Pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin. Nangunot ang noo nito ngunit hindi nagkomento. Baka iniisip nitong bata siya sa height niyang 5'5 at balingkinitang katawan. "Sarap o hirap, Miss?" hindi nakangiting tanong nito. Napalunok siya at naumid yata ang dila pero kailangan niyang sumagot. Malaking benepisyo ang makukuha niya kapag natanggap siya sa sorority ni Alicia. "S-arap po," pikit-matang sagot niya. Inangat nito ang palad at agad na lumapit ang isa pang bouncer. "Nandiyan na ba si Phoenix?" tanong nito sa tinawag. "Kadarating lang pero nasa kwarto na." "Good. Ibigay mo 'yan sa kanya at ipaalala mong birhen 'yan," utos pa nito sa lalaki. Nangunot ang noo niya ngunit napapikit noong basta na lang siya lagyan ng blindfold sa mga mata. "B-akit po may blindfold?" kabadong tanong niya. "Hindi mo pwedeng makita ang makakasama mo. Bawal mong silipin o tanungin ang pangalan niya. Kapag ginawa mo iyon, madi-disqualify ka at hindi ka tatanggapin sa grupo," paalala pa ng bouncer na lumapit. Tinatak niya sa isip ang mga sinabi nito. Napasunod siya noong hilahin siya nito sa kung saan. Narinig niya rin ang tunog ng doorknob. Marahan pa siya nitong tinulak sa loob. Sumalubong sa kanya ang mabangong amoy ng lemon. Hindi niya mawari kung air freshener iyon o pabango. "New recruit?" tanong ng mababa at tila namamaos na boses. Nanindig pa ang mga balahibo niya sa bahagyang lamig sa boses nito. "Birhen 'yan. Ingatan mo." Nahigit niya ang hininga at kinabahan noong bitiwan na siya ng lalaki. Ramdam niya bigla ang tensyon sa paligid, maging ang mariing titig sa kanya. "I'm not gonna educate you. I hope you know why you are here and why you came here... willingly," seryosong sambit pa nito gamit ang namamaos nitong boses. Mabilis siyang tumango. Ang sabi sa kanya ay mabilis lang ang initiation kaya baka tanong nga lang iyon. "Uhm, I w-ant to finish my studies; that's why I came here," kabadong sagot niya ngunit malutong pagmumura ang narinig niya mula dito. Kasunod ay ang pagbukas ng pinto, "Inosente itong ni-recruit niyo! Get her outta here!" biglang sigaw nito sa labas. "You can't back out, Phoenix. Alam mo ang mangyayari sa kanya kapag pinaalis mo siya ngayon," madiing sagot ng kung sino. Marahas na buntong hininga ang narinig niya at malakas ding sinara ang pinto. Nagtaasan muli ang mga balahibo niya sa gulat noong humawak ang may kagaspangan nitong palad sa braso niya. "I hope you won't regret coming here," mabigat nitong bulong. Nanlamig siya noong umikot ang malaking braso nito sa bewang niya. Sa tantiya niya ay malaki din ang katawan nito lalo na noong lumapat ang balikat niya sa malapad nitong dibdib. Napaatras pa siya noong maramdaman ang daliri nitong binababa ang strap ng kanyang bestida. "A-nong gagawin mo?" Humakbang ito na kinaatras niya. Mahina siyang napasigaw sa pagbagsak niya sa kama. Gulat pa siya sa malaking katawan na biglang umibabaw sa kanya. Kumalabog ng husto ang puso nita. Sakop na sakop ng malaking katawan nito ang katawan niya. "S-andali!" Sinubukan niyang pigilan ang dibdib nito kahit hindi niya nakikita ngunit hinuli nito ang mga kamay niya at parehong pininid sa kama gamit ang isang palad nito. Bumigat ang paghinga niya lalo na noong sumiksik sa looban ng bestida niya ang malaking palad nito. "You should not have come here, Miss. Now you left me no choice but to take you," mabigat na bulong nito bago lumapat ang mga basang labi sa kanyang leeg. Lalo siyang nanlamig matapos matanto ang nangyayari. Hindi siya nakakilos. Ang naglalakabay nitong mainit na palad at ang malaking katawan nito sa itaas niya ay sapat na upang mangilid ang mga luha niya. "H-uwag po," nanginig pa ang boses niya. Marahas na bumuntong hininga ang lalaki, "You chose this. I tried my best to help you. The least thing I can do... is to be gentle," tila nahihirapang bulong nito. Napalunok siya kahit pa unti-unti nitong naalis ang mga saplot niya. Niyakap siya ng lamig ng aircon ngunit natakpan sa init ng malaking katawan nitong nasa itaas niya. Ang kabog ng dibdib niya ay walang kasing lakas sa pinaghalong kaba at kung ano man ang pinaparamdam nito sa kanya lalo noong dumausdos ito pababa... sa pagitan ng mga hita niya. Nanginig ang mga hita niya noong maramdaman ang mainit nitong paghinga't bibig nitong dumampi doon. Pinagpawisan siya nang malagkit kasabay ng kaba. Tanging impit na ungol at daing ang naibulalas niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang bibig nito doon. Napapabalikwas ang bewang niya ngunit hindi ito masipa. Para siyang na-estatwa noong magtagal ito doon hanggang sa mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa mga labi niya. Hinihingal pa siya sa paggapang nito muli sa itaas niya, pinaghiwalay ang mga hita niya, at pinwesto ang malaking katawan doon. Hindi siya nakaprotesta, naumid ang dila niya at hindi mahanap ang boses niya. Sunod na lang niyang namalayan ay ang pagtulo ng luha niya sa hapdi matapos mag-isa ang katawan nila. Namilipit siya sa sakit sa bawat galaw nito. Tila napunit na nito lahat ng nasa loob niya at kahit bagalan pa nito ay hiyaw ang kumakawala sa bibig niya. Pinirmi pa nito ang bewang niya. Nawalan na rin ng lakas ang mga kamay niya na kahit binitiwan nito ay hindi siya nakakilos para itulak ito. Namimigat ang paghinga niya at napapa-igik sa bawat madiing galaw nito sa loob niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang malaking katawan nitong gumagalaw sa kanyang itaas. Ni hindi niya alam kung paanong natapos ang pangyayaring iyon. Ang alam niya lang ay nakuha ng isang estrangherong lalaki ang puri niya. Paggising niya ay nananakit ang katawan niya. Takot pa siyang alisin ang blindfold ngunit kusa iyong nalaglag. Namulatan niya ang tahimik na kwarto, walang bakas na may nakasama siya ngunit ang dugo sa kobre kama ay patunay na wala na sa kanya ang iniingatan niya. Napasubsob siya sa kanyang tuhod at napahagulhol. Masyado siyang nagpadalos-dalos sa desisyon niya! Dapat ay inalam niya muna kung ano'ng klaseng sarap ang sinasabi ng mga ito! Kahit hirap maglakad ay pinilit niya ang sariling magbihis at umalis sa lugar na iyon. Wala na rin naman ang mga bouncer. Kahit si Nica ay hindi niya mahagilap. Sa sobrang pagod niya ay hindi na niya pinansin ang boyfriend ng Tita niya na nasa sala. Diretso siyang kwarto at binagsak ang katawan doon. Ang masama, nilagnat pa siya at napanaginipan ng ilang beses ang nangyari! Tatlong araw din siyang hindi nakapasok. Para siyang lutang na naglalakad noong pumasok na sa eskwela. Natulala pa siya sa nakangiti niyang kaibigan. "Bayad na ang tuition fee nating dalawa. Ang galing! May allowance pa, Lei!" Hagikhik nito bago pinakita ang cheque na may malaking halagang nakasulat. Napalunok siya. Ito na iyon. Ito na ang kapalit ng pagsali nila sa Sorority. Dapat bang kalimutan na lang niya ang nangyari sa kanila ng lalaki? "Ang balita ko ay mga Fraternity leader ang mga lalaking iyon, Lei. Hindi ko rin nakilala ang sa'kin," kwento pa ni Nica sa kanya. "H-indi ka ba umiyak? O nasaktan? Ako kasi pakiramdam ko nahati ang katawan ko," mahinang sambit niya. Namula ang mga pisngi nito, "Hindi ko una iyon kaya... sakto lang ang sakit." Napaawang ang mga labi niya sa kaibigan. Hindi pa mag-sink in sa kanya iyon. Wala naman siyang karapatan na husgahan ito kaya tumango na lang siya. "Wala bang meeting ang Sorority ngayon? Gusto kong magtanong kay Alicia. Baka pwede ko ng makita man lang iyong Phoenix na nakasama ko," imbis ay liko niya sa usapan. "Hindi tayo natanggap doon, Lei." "A-no? P-aanong hindi? Pero bayad na ang tuition fee base na rin sa benefits nila." Umiling ito, "Bayad iyon sa'tin, Lei. Hindi tayo kasapi ng grupo nila. Hindi tayo tinanggap." Para siyang nabingi sa narinig. Kumuyom ang kamao niya. Ang ibig sabihin ay inalay lang sila sa mga Fraternity leader na iyon. Gusto niyang magdamdam at ibalik ang perang natanggap ngunit hindi niya magawa lalo na noong mas maghigpit sa pera ang Tita Agnes niya. Naka-survive siya ng halos dalawang buwan sa allowance na bigay ng grupo. May natira pa ngunit hindi sasapat iyon kaya muli siyang kumakatok sa kwarto ng Tita niya. "Tita, hihingi po sana ako ng allowanceโ" Nabitin sa ere ang kamay niya at napatingala kay Richard noong buksan nito ang kwarto. Sumandal pa ito at humalukipkip. Napaatras siya noong bigla siya nitong pasadahan ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Nagtagal pa ang mga titig nito sa mga dibdib niya kaya nayakap niya ang sarili. "B-akit ka nandito? N-asaan si Tita Agnes?" Ngumisi ito at mas niluwangan ang pinto, "Dito na ako nakatira. May binili lang ang Tita mo. Kalahating oras pa iyon sa bayan. Baka gusto mong paligayahin muna kita." Napasinghap siya sa takot at umatras "Manyak!" galit niyang sigaw dito ngunit pilit nitong inabot ang siko niya at hinihila siya papasok sa kwarto. "Mabilis lang, Lei. Hindi malalaman ng Tita mo. Tayong dalawa langโ" "Bitiwan mo ko! Ayoko sa'yo!" Malakas niya itong sinampal. Nabitiwan siya nito at sinalo ang pisnging sinampal niya. "Punyeta ka, Lorelei! Bakit mo sinampal si Richard?!" biglang sigaw ng Tita niya mula sa likod kaya natulos siya sa kinatatayuan.p Nanginig siya sa kaba lalo na sa nanlilisik na tingin ng Tita niya. "T-ita, kasiโ" "Lumayas kang Punyeta ka! Palamunin ka na nga lang hindi ka pa marunong rumespeto!" Namilog ang mga mata niya noong bigla na lang siya nitong hilahin sa buhok at kaladkarin sa labas ng bahay. "T-ita, nagkakamali kayo! Sinubukan niya akong dalhin sa kwartoโ" "Wala akong pakialam! Napakalandi mo at pati boyfriend ko inaakit mo!" sigaw nito bago siya tinulak sa labas ng pinto. Muntik na siyang sumubsob sa lupa kun'di siya nakabalanse. Malakas pa nitong sinarado ang pinto ngunit bumalik para lang itapon sa pagmumukha niya ang iilang damit. "Lumayas ka at huwag kang babalik dito! Hindi ko kailangan ng malanding pamangkin!" sobrang lakas na sigaw nito na nakapagpalabas sa mga kapitbahay nila. Hiyang-hiya siya noong magbulungan ang mga iyon. Nayakap na lang niya ang mga damit at ang alkansyang baboy niyang tinapon nito sa kanyang paanan. Nagbagsakan ang mga luha niya. Gusto niyang ipaglaban na bahay iyon ng Mama niya ngunit alam niyang hindi na makikinig ang tiyahin niya. Tinago na lang niya ang mukha sa mga damit na hawak at mabilis na nagtawag ng tricycle. Nagpunta siya kila Nica at maging ito ay gigil na gigil sa tiyahin niya at kay Richard matapos niyang magkwento. "Ipabarangay mo, Lei. Wala siyang karapatan sa bahay na iyon. Sa'yo iyon! Pati ang negosyo ng Mama mo, sa'yo iyon! Pinagkaitan ka niya, lahat ng pera ng Mama mo siya ang nagwaldas. Hmp! Kumukulo ang dugo ko sa Tita Agnes mo!" Umakto pa itong manunugod ngunit pinigilan niya sa siko at umiling dito. "H-uwag na, Nica. Hindi ko na rin naman gugustuhing bumalik doon lalo na kung naroon si Richard." "Pero paano ka? Saan ka titira? Paano ang pag-aaral mo? Patapos na tayo, Lei. Bayad na rin ang tuition fee mo." Bumagsak ang tingin niya sa sahig at nanlabo ang mga mata. Hindi niya rin alam kung paano malalagpasan iyon pero pinilit niyang maghanap ng trabaho at apartment na maliit. Sakto lang sa kanya ngunit pagod na pagod nga lang siya bilang waitress ng eatery. Makailang beses tuloy siyang nakatulog sa klase at ang huli ay nahuli pa siya ng lalaking matandang professor niya. "Miss Carpio, alam mong bawal matulog sa klase ko." Napalunok siya at hindi mapigilan ang mga pumipikit na mga mata, "S-orry, Sir. Hindi na po mauulit." Umismid ito at lumayo ngunit noong makita siya na muling pumikit ay galit na siya nitong pinalabas. Nanghihina tuloy siyang napakapit sa pader ng hallway. Naghabol ng paghinga at pakiramdam niya ay umiikot ang paligid niya. Isang hakbang pa ay alam niyang sinakop na siya ng dilim. Noong magising ay nasa tabi na niya si Nica na mukhang kinabahan. Mabilis pa itong umalalay noong pilitin niyang umupo. "Ano'ng nangyari? Tsaka bakit ako nasa clinic, Nica?" Natameme ito ngunit nangilid ang luha sa gilid ng mga mata. Binugso tuloy siya ng kaba at napatitig dito. "B-akit, Nica?" Suminghot ito, "B-untis ka, Lei." Tila nawalan siya ng paghinga sa narinig mula dito. Napalunok siya at nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata. "Hindi gumamit ng proteksyon ang nakasama mo sa initiation, Lei. Binuntis ka niya," sobrang hinang sambit nito. Bumagsak ang luha niya at nanginginig ang kamay na dumapo sa impis niyang tiyan. "Patakaran ng Fraternity nila na gumamit ng proteksyon, pero dahil buntis ka... sigurado akong hindi siya gumamit no'n," patuloy pa nitong paliwanag ngunit naba-blangko na ang isip niya lalo't hindi na niya alam ang sunod na gagawin sa buhay niya. "P-aano ko siya mahahanap, Nica? Paano na ako? Hindi ko pa kaya." Tuloy - tuloy na naglandas ang mga luha niya habang inaalala ang pangalan ng lalaki. "Phoenix. Tama, Phoenix ang pangalan niya, Nica. Hanapin na'tin. Itanong na'tin kay Alicia," pagsusumamo niya sa kaibigan ngunit umiling ito. "Phoenix is just a code name, Lei. Sigurado akong hindi rin siya kilala ni Alicia lalo na kung isa siya sa mga leader," sagot nito na nagpabagsak sa mga balikat niya. "Tingin ko, sinadya niyang buntisin ka," muling sambit nito na nagpakuyom sa kamao niya. FIVE YEARS LATER Para siyang pinutulan ng pakpak dahil sa nangyaring iyon sa buhay niya. Wala siyang choice noon kun'di tumigil sa pag-aaral at magpokus sa trabaho para may pera pagkapanganak niya. Sinubukan naman niyang hanapin ang lalaki, pati nga si Alicia ay ginulo niya ngunit bigla na lang itong naglaho na parang bula. Pati ang kaibigan niyang si Nica ay bigla ring nawala at hindi alam kung saan napunta kaya natakot siyang maghaluglog pa ng impormasyon. Ang tanging nalaman niya ay leader ng Alpha Omega Fraternity ang lalaking nakakuha sa pagkabirhen niya. Limang taon na ang lumipas ngunit hindi niya talaga makakalimutan ang nangyaring iyon lalo't dalawang supling ang pabaon sa kanya ng lalaki. "Mama, wait ka namin mamaya. Promise mo bibili po tayo ng toys?" Kumurap-kurap pa sa kanya ang biluging mga mata ng anak niyang babaeng si Odessy. Marahan siyang lumuhod at inayos ang pagkaka-pigtail ng buhok nito. "Promise! Huwag kang lalayo kay Achi ah? Makinig kay teacher," habilin niya dito bago marahang hinila din palapit ang anak niyang lalaking si Achilles. "Mama, iyong book. Isa na lang bilhin mo po, share na lang kami ni Ody," marahang paalala sa kanya ni Achilles. Pilit siyang ngumiti sa mga ito. Parehong nasa daycare ang dalawa. Pinipilit niyang maibigay lahat ng pangangailangan nila pero sobrang hirap lalo't hindi siya tapos ng kolehiyo at hindi makahanap ng trabahong mataas ang pasahod. "Hindi pwede, Achi. Kailangan tig-isa kayo. Doon kayo sasagot. Ako ng bahala. Bantayan mo ang kapatid mo. Baka makipag-away." Ginulo niya pa ang buhok ito at marahang kinurot ang hindi kalakihang pisngi. "Pwede naman ako sa papel lang sasagot, Mama," pilit nito na inilingan niya. Ayaw niya ng ganoon. Hindi niya ipagkakait ang magandang edukasyon sa mga anak niya. Hindi hangga't nabubuhay siya. "Si Mama na bahala. Ubusin niyo baon niyo. Okii?" Malawak na ngumiti si Ody sa kanya at humawak sa braso ng kapatid. Si Achi man ay pilit na ngumiti. "Mama, ingat!" sabay pang sigaw ng dalawa bago maglakad papasok sa classroom. Pinigilan niya ang naninikip na dibdib matapos tumama sa liwanag ng araw ang mga mata ng mga ito at masilayan kung paanong naging kayumanggi ang mga itim na mga mata ng mga ito. Ilang beses na niyang hinanap sa mga lalaki ang ganoong klase ng mata. Maitim kapag walang araw ngunit kulay kayumanggi kapag nasinagan. Hindi ganoon ang mga mata niya kaya sigurado siyang namana ng dalawa iyon sa mga ama ng mga ito. Hindi rin siya naniniwalang sinadya siyang buntisin ng lalaking iyon dahil hanggang ngayon, walang nagpapakilala para akuin ang mga anak niya. Bumuga siya ng hangin at agad na nagtungo sa opisina ng abogadong amo niya. Ngunit masamang balita ang bumungad sa kanya. "I'm really sorry, Lei. Ipapasara na ang firm. Sa bahay na muna magtatrabaho ang asawa ko at ako na muna ang sekretarya niya. Pasensya ka na. Huling sahod mo na 'to." Nilapit pa ni Misis Alvarez ang sobre sa kanya. Napalunok siya at napatitig doon. Dalawang taon na siyang sekretarya ni Mr. Alvarez at hindi naman lingid sa kaalamam niyang pabagsak na ang firm nito. Nilunok na lang niya ang bikig sa lalamunan niya. Sigurado siyang mahihirapan na naman siyang maghanap ng trabaho. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Umikot na rin sa isip niya ang mga bayarin niya. Simula sa renta sa bahay, sa kuryente, allowance ng kambal, at mga bayarin sa eskwela. "W-ala po ba kayong kilala na... pwede kong lipatan, Misis Alvarez?" Bumuntong hininga ang Ginang, "Tatawagan ko ang kakilala ko, Hija. Itatanong ko kung may alam siyang naghahanap ng sekretarya pero hindi ako nangangako. Tatawagan na lang kita." Bagsak ang balikat na umalis siya doon. Halos hindi siya makalunok matapos bilangin ang iilang libong sahod niya para sa buwan na iyon. Tubig nga lang ang binili niya sa convenience store habang nagtitingin - tingin sa diyaryo. Kahit ano'ng trabaho papatusin na niya kaysa walang trabaho sa loob ng ilang buwan. "Tanggal na naman?! Pang ilan na 'yan ngayong buwan. Ano bang gusto niya? Single? Walang single na babae ang papatol sa gusto ni Mr. Montanier โFine, Eman. Ako na ang maghahanap ng bago niyang sekretarya. Kainis!" Nagpantig ang tainga niya sa narinig at mabilis na napaangat ng tingin sa Ginang na aburidong binaba ang hawak na cellphone. Mabilis siyang tumayo noong akma itong lalabas sa convenience store. Nagulat ito noong pigilan niya sa braso. "Bakit, Hija?" Kumunot ang noo nito sa kanya. Sa tantiya niya ay nasa edad forty-five na ito base na rin sa iilang litaw na puting buhok. "N-aghahanap po kayo ng sekretarya?" kabadong tanong niya. Literal na pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Sa kaba niya ay nabitiwan niya ang braso nito. "May asawa ka?" Mabilis siyang umiling, "Wala po!" Tumango ito at nilahad ang kamay kaya mabilis niyang nilagay doon ang resume niya. Mabilis nitong pinasadahan ang papel bago pinasok sa bag nito. "Tanggap ka na. Sumama ka sa'kin." Walang pagdadalawang isip siyang sumama sa Ginang. Imbis na sa kumpanya ay sa malaki at modernong bahay siya dinala. Sa isang exclusive subdivision iyon. Babasagin ang dingding at kumikinang ang mga mamahaling mwebles ng bahay. Kulay abo at puti ang bahay kaya sigurado siyang lalaki ang magiging amo niya. "Ako si Melia, Hija. Pinaka-sekretarya ni Sir Hector. Bukod sa'kin, may isa pa siyang sekretarya, si Eman. Pareho kaming sa kumpanya at kailangan pa ng isa pang sekretarya ni Sir Hector. On-call at kung pwede ay stay-in." Natigilan siya sa sinabi nito, "Stay-in po?" Hindi pwede sa kanya ang trabahong ganoon lalo na kung hindi pwedeng dalhin ang mga anak niya. "Bawal ba, Hija? Kaya tinanong kita kung may asawa ka. Madalas na magtrabaho sa bahay si Hector. Workholic at umaabot ng madaling araw. Kailangan na may magremind sa kanya sa schedule at dapat niyang pirmahan. Hindi naman madalas na stay-in pero paglalaanan na kita ng kwarto dito. Wala ka naman din sigurong anak di ba? Gusto niya ay single, walang extra baggage at kaya ang trabaho. Sana naman ikaw na ang huli at magtatagal dito sa bahay niya," patuloy na paliwanag nito. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Kung ganoon hindi niya pwedeng sabihin na may kambal siyang anak. "Maglipat ka na ng iilang gamit mo. Pwede kang bumalik bukas ng umaga para pag-usapan ang sahod mo. Nasa event pa si Sir Hector at madaling araw pa babalik. Lahat ng gamit dito pwede mong gamitin. Kung masipag ka, linisin mo na rin, may dagdag sahod naman. Isabay mo na rin ang kwarto niya." "Hindi po ba nakakatakot si Sir Hector?" Natigil ito sa tanong niya. Pagkaraan ay tinuro ang malaking portrait sa sala. Sinundan niya iyon ng tingin. Nagtaasaan ang mga balahibo niya sa klase ng tingin nito sa camera. Galit maging ang magkasalubong nitong makapal na kilay. Walang ngiti ang manipis na labi at mabalbas na panga. Halata ring matigas ang panga nito. At ang ilong, sobrang tangos! Maging ang buhok nitong nakasuklay palikod ay kumikinang sa larawan. Higit sa lahat, litaw ang matipunong dibdib nitong may makapal na balahibo. Sa larawan ay seryoso itong nag-aayos sa relong pambisig. "He's Hector Montanier and he's a perfectionist. So please, beware. Huwag kang gumawa ng bagay na ikakagalit niya kung ayaw mong mawalan agad ng trabaho, Hija," madiing paalala nito kaya napalunok siya. Kaya niya ba? Kaya niya bang pagsilbihan ang lalaking sa larawan pa lang ay mukhang papatay na? Paano pa sa personal? Baka hindi na siya makahinga kapag nakaharap ito. "Gusto ka niyang makausap." Gulat pa siya noong ilahad ni Miss Melia ang cellphone sa kanya. Nanginginig ang kamay niyang tinanggap iyon at nilagay sa tainga niya. Dinig niya ang mahinang musika sa background ngunit mas dinig niya ang mabibigat nitong paghinga. "Your name?" swabe at malamig ang boses nito kaya nahigit niya ang paghinga. "L-orelei Carpio po, Sir." Mahina ngunit marahas na paghinga ang narinig niya mula dito. "Lorelei, hmm," namamaos na sambit nito sa pangalan niya at hindi niya alam kung bakit naghatid iyon ng kakaibang init sa kaibuturan niya. Mabilis niyang binalik ang cellphone kay Miss Melia. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya at hindi kayang kausapin ang bagong boss niya. "B-abalik na lang po ako bukas," tarantang paalam niya. Kahit hindi pa ito um-oo ay lumabas na siya ng bahay na iyon. May mali sa pakiramdam niya. Bakit ganoon? Bakit pakiramdam niya buong boses nito ang humagod sa katawan niya? Iniisip niya pa kung narinig na ba niya iyon noon, pamilyar ngunit hindi niya maalala. "Lorelei, hmm." Muling umulit sa isipan niya ang pagtawag nito sa kanya. Naipagdikit niya ang mga hita lalo't tila namasa ang nasa pagitan ng mga iyon. Bumigat ang paghinga niya. Parang ayaw na niyang tanggapin ang trabaho lalo na kung araw - araw niyang makakasalamuha si Hector Montanier. Tulala tuloy siya noong sunduin ang kambal. Dinala niya pa sa malapit na bilihan ng laruan para na rin makalimutan niya ang pagtawag ni Sir Hector sa kanya. "Itong teddy bear na lang, Mama. Kapag barbie, ako lang ang maglalaro, kapag car naman, si Achi lang. Pero itong bear, pwede kaming share, Mama!" Masiglang tinaas pa ni Ody ang maliit na puting teddy bear. Nahabag siya sa mga ito. Hindi man lang niya maibili ng kahit tig-isang laruan. Hindi man lang niya mapakain sa sikat na fastfood ang mga anak. Mabilis siyang tumango ngunit umiwas ng tingin noong mapansin ang paninitig ni Achi sa kanya. Binayaran na lang niya ang teddy bear para makauwi na sila. Akala niya ay nakaligtas na siya sa mapanuring titig ng anak ngunit hindi. "Mama, iyong book. Kailangan na raw bilhin. Isa na lang, Mama. Kay Ody na lang. Kung hindi pwede, sa susunod na lang po ako mag-aral," kalmadong pagkausap ni Achi sa kanya. Parang pinilipit ang puso niya. Hindi niya hahayaan na mangyari iyon! Hindi deserve ng mga anak niya na maranasan ang nangyari sa kanya. "Hindi, Achi. Bibilhin natin bukas iyon. May bago na akong trabaho." Pinisil niya pa muli ang pisngi nito. Namula nga iyon lalo na't sobrang puti ng dalawa. Ang balak tuloy niyang pagtanggi na sa trabaho ay naudlot. Mas kailangan niya pala iyon. Bahala na kung ano'ng klaseng tao si Sir Hector, basta siya, trabaho lang ang gusto niya. Kinabukasan ay kinausap niya ang mga ito na gagabihin siya. Ayaw niyang iwanan pero hindi niya pwedeng isama. Kung malaki ang sahod niya ay kukuha siya ng bantay para sa mga ito. Kabado siyang bumalik sa malaking bahay. Sa harap pa lang ng pinto ay kumakalabog na ang dibdib niya. Kita na niya roon ang mamahaling sport car na wala kahapon. Nanginginig tuloy ang kamay niyang i-input ang code na pinadala pa sa mensahe ni Miss Melia upang mabuksan niya ang pinto. Pagbukas ay tumambad sa kanya ang pares ng mamahaling itim na sapatos. Pinulot niya iyon upang maitabi. Ngunit nabaling ang atensyon niya sa mahinang hilik sa sala. Kinakabahan siyang lumapit. Tumingkayad para lang masilip ang bagong boss niyang mahimbing ang tulog sa sofa. Halos hindi nga ito magkasya doon sa laki ng katawan. Ang isang binti nito ay nasa sahig habang ang isa ay nasa arm rest. Unan nito ang namumutok na braso at higit sa lahat ay bukas ang suot nitong puting longsleeve kaya't malaya niyang nasilayan ang makapal na balahibo sa matipuno nitong dibdib. Napalunok siya at imbis na lumiko ay umakyat ang tingin niya sa awang nitong mga labi. Namumula at nakasilip pa ang pantay-pantay na puting ngipin nito. Sa totoo lang, para itong modelo ng brief at toothpaste na lumabas sa magazine. Pati panga ay naninigas at sigurado siyang hindi basta-basta ang alaga nito sa ibaba. Ano bang pinag-iisip niya?! "Are you done checking me out, Miss?" namamaos pang bigkas nito bigla kaya napasinghap siya. Nabitin sa ere ang paghinga niya at namilog ang mga mata noong magkatitigan sila. Inaantok pa ang itim nitong mga mata at sobrang haba ng mga pilikmata kaya lalo siyang hindi nakapagsalita. "Close your mouth. Your lips look so delectable," inaantok nitong bigkas muli ngunit iba ang dating ng boses sa kanya kaya nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Ang boses nito ay parang kagagaling sa nakakapagod na ehersisyo sa kama. Magaspang na namamaos. "Close them... please. I might kiss you if you keep drooling on me. Do you want me... to take you here?" biglang tanong nito kaya namula lalo ang mga pisngi niya. Para siyang naeskandalo at hindi na makatingin dito ngunit nahuli niya ang pag-angat ng gilid ng labi nito. Hindi iyon ngiti kun'di maliit na ngisi. Lumitaw pa sa kanang gilid ng labi nito ang hindi kalalimang dimple. "Just kidding. Let's talk inside my office," bawi nito bago biglang bumangon. Mabilis siyang umiwas at napayuko noong basta na lang ito nag-alis ng butones ng longsleeve nito at swabe iyong hinubad. "Do I smell liquor?" mabigat na tanong nito kaya lang ay ayaw niyang lumingon dito kaya nanatili ang titig niya sa sahig. "I'm asking you. Amoy alak ba ako, Lorelei?" halos paos na naman ang boses nito kaya napapikit siya nang mariin. Iba talaga ang hagod ng boses nito sa katawan niya. Lahat ng balahibo niya ay nagtataasan at pati puson niya ay nakikiliti. Napalunok siya noong maramdaman ang paglapit nito. Pagmulat pa niya ay mabalahibong paa ang nakita niya sa harap ng mga paa niya. "N-o, Sir. H-indi po kayo amoy alak," kabadong sagot niya noong akma siya nitong hahawakan. Pag-angat ng tingin niya ay seryoso itong naninitig sa kanya. Salubong ang kilay. Hindi niya nga maitutok ang tingin sa mukha nito lalo't nakabalandra sa harap niya ang hubad nitong katawan. Bumigat ang paghinga niya at gusto na lang pindutin ang matitigas nitong muscles. "In my office," may awtoridad na nitong utos bago tumalikod. Napabuga siya ng hangin. Napapaypay sa sarili at hindi maiwasang manghina. Parang naubos ang lakas niya dito. Sinulyapan niya na lang ang matipuno nitong likod na pumasok sa isang pinto. Huminga siya nang malalim nang ilang beses at binalik ang mga sapatos sa sahig bago sumunod. Nakasandal na ito sa swivel chair at mukhang hinihintay siya. Nahuli niya agad ang mariing titig nito. "Here, Lorelei," malalim na sambit nito at marahang tinipa ang daliri nito sa mesa. Tahimik siyang lumapit kahit nahihiya. Na-conscious siya sa paninitig nito at pakiramdam niya ay hubad na siya sa isip nito. "I might require you to work 24/7, so make sure you don't have any extra baggage to attend to. Don't worry, I'll pay you triple or name your price," seryosong saad nito matapos iabot sa kanya ang blankong cheque na may pirma na nito. Napatitig siya doon ngunit hindi inasahan ang pagtayo nito at paglapit sa likod niya. Muli siyang naestatwa matapos maramdaman ang init ng paghinga nito sa bandang tainga at leeg niya. Hindi pa siya nakakilos noong lumapat sa bewang niya ang mainit at malaking palad nito. "S-ir," kabado niyang bigkas. "Single?" imbis ay tanong nito kaya mabilis siyang tumango. "Good. Birhen?" sunod na tanong nito kaya nanlaki ang mga mata niya. Hindi siya makasagot. Sasabihin ba niyang may anak na siya at kambal pa? Baka hindi siya nito tanggapin! "Y-es, Sir," pagsisinungaling niya. Marahas itong huminga na tila nahihirapan at nagpipigil. Napaangat nang bahagya ang balikat niya noong tumama doon ang matangos nitong ilong na tila inaamoy siya. Nakiliti pa siya sa mabalbas nitong pangang na humagod sa balat niya. "Perfect for me," halos dumikit pa ang labi nito sa paos nitong bulong kasabay ng pagdiin ng palad nito sa kanyang bewang na tila gusto na siyang sunggaban. Hindi niya alam na kanina pa niya pigil ang paghinga kung hindi lang ito lumayo. "Ikukuha kita ng dress. We'll attend an event," pinal na sambit nito kaya namilog ang mga mata niya. "Po? Sir, hindi po pwedeโ" Mas namilog ang mga niya noong tumama sa mga labi niya ang hintuturo nito upang patigilan siya. "Shhh. Sasama ka. You're now my secretary. Kung nasaan ako, doon ka." madiing sagot nito na akala mo ay hindi iyon big deal. Hindi siya makareklamo. Paglabas ng opisina nito ay gusto niyang ibalik ang cheque. Tinawagan niya rin si Miss Melia. "Hindi ka pwedeng umatras, Lorelei. Lagyan mo limang milyon iyang cheque niya para makabawi ka kung gusto mo. Kumpara sa mga nauna sa'yo, mas pabor si Sir Hector sa'yo. Mag-enjoy ka na lang sa event, Hija." Napirmi ang mga labi niya. Dapat pala pinag-isipan niyang mabuti. Napilitan tuloy siyang mag-ayos. Hindi pa siya kumportable sa baby blue cocktail dress na inorder nito. Yukong-yuko siya noong titigan nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya matapos masulyapan ang madiing titig nito. Para tuloy siyang hindi makahinga sa paninitig nito. Pakiramdam niya ay hinuhubaran na siya nito sa isip pa lang. "Chin up. You look... gorgeous," mahinang papuri nito. Sinubukan nitong hawakan ang bewang niya ngunit umiwas siya. Hilaw siyang ngumiti. "Alis na po tayo para agad makabalik, Sir." Nauna pa siya sa harap ng sasakyan nito. Nanliliit ang tingin nito noong pagbuksan siya ng pinto. Mali ba na umiwas dito? Boss niya ito at mali na magustuhan siya nito. Umikot ito sa driver seat noong makaupo na siya. Namroblema pa siya paano aayusin ang seatbelt ngunit nahigit niya ang hininga noong ito mismo ang umagaw sa seatbelt niya at nag-ayos no'n. Nasamyo niya tuloy ang matapang nitong pabango na may halong lemon. Akala pa niya ay ang air freshener pero hindi, amoy lemon talaga ito at masarap sa ilong. Maliit itong nangunguso noong paandarin ang sasakyan. Umiiwas siya ng tingin dito. Kumakalabog ang dibdib niya ngayong nasa isang sasakyan lang sila. Kinipkip niya pa ang bag sa mga hantad niyang hita. "How old are you, Lorelei?" biglang tanong nito na muntik magpatalon sa kanya sa upuan. "T-wenty five, Sir." "Hm. Never been touched? Never been kissed? And of course, never... Am I right?" senswal at bulgar nitong tanong. Tumiim bagang siya. Alam na niya ang kalibre nito kung bakit gusto nito ng Birhen. Sigurado siyang marami na rin itong naikama at delikado siya kung hindi siya mag-iingat. "I'm not comfortable with tbose questions, Sir," pag-amin niya. Hindi ito kumibo. Nasilip niya ang pagsasalubong ng kilay nito. Nakasandal na nga ang siko nito sa bintana at pinaglalaruan ng mga daliri nito ang ibabang labi nito. Isang kamay lang ang gamit nitong pagdrive. Nakarolyo ang asul na manggas ng longsleeve at ang lakas manampal ng kayamanan ng mamahaling relo nito. "Would you like to pretend to be my girlfriend?" biglang tanong nito sa kawalan. "Po?" Umigting ang panga nito, "My ex will be there with her new boytoy. Ayoko talagang magpunta na mag-isa, but I have to show up. It's business related. Ipapakilala kitang bagong girlfriend ko. Don't worry, I'll pay you for this," paliwanag nito. "Pero, Sirโ" "Just this once, Kitty. After this, you can be just my plain secretary." Napakurap siya at napalinga pa sa backseat kung sino ang tinawag nitong Kitty. "Cute, Kitten," nangingising sambit nito sa reaksyon niya. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Walanghiya! Siya pala ang pusa! Wala rin siyang nagawa noong pagdating nila sa event ay ito mismo ang nag-ayos sa braso niya pakapit sa braso nito. "Just stay beside me, Kitty. Smile as if you are head over heels for me," nakangising paalala nito. Sa dami ng mga bigating tao ay naging peke ang ngiti niya. Sa isang pabilog silang mesa napunta at naupo. Ramdam niya agad ang titig ng isang babae sa kanya na tila gusto siyang patumbahin. "Oh gosh, you got a new girl, Hector. I'm happy for you, Hijo. Hindi sana magloko katulad ng nauna," ani ng isang Ginang na bobo kay Sir Hector. Tumabingi ang ngiti niya habang ang babaeng nakatitig sa kanya ay umirap. Humilig pa ito sa braso ng lalaking katabi. "We should go home early, Babe. Bawal magpuyat ang buntis," dinig niyang bulong nito sa lalaki. Ramdam niya ang paninigas ng katawan ni Hector at kahit nakangiti ito sa mga kausap ay pansin naman niya ang panaka-nakang pag-igting ng panga nito. "Alejandro and I are having a baby boy, Mrs. Sarmiento," dinig niyang sagot ng babae matapos itong tanungin sa pinagbubuntis. Hindi na nga niya ito nilingon bagkus ay natutok ang titig niya kay Hector na naging sunod-sunod ang inom ng alak. Hindi siya nakatiis at inagaw ang brandy na hawak nito at ininom iyon. "What are you doing?" bulong na tanong nito. "Hindi ka pwedeng malasing. Magda-drive ka pa," madiing bulong niya pabalik. Lumapit ito at nagtaasan ang mga balahibo niya noong dumikit ang ilong nito sa leeg niya. "My Kitty is concern," namamaos nitong bulong kasabay pa ng pagdapo ng mainit nitong palad sa hita niya. Ginalaw niya ang hita ngunit dumiin ang kapit nito. Wala tuloy sa sariling napainom siya ng alak. "Crizaa, come back here!" Nabaling ang atensyon niya sa lalaking Alejandro yata ang pangalan. Tinatawag nito ang babaeng masama ang titig sa kanya na nag-walk out ngayon lang. Doon lang nawala sa hita niya ang palad ni Hector. Lumagok pa ito ng alak bago tumayo. "Comfort room," paalam nito pero ang titig ay nasa babaeng papalayo. Hindi niya alam kung bakit nadismaya siyang sinundan nito ang babae. Umiwas na lang siya ng tingin at tahimik na uminom. "Ngayon lang kita nakita, Hija. Gaano na kayo katagal ni Hector? Anim na buwan pa lang naman kasi silang hiwalay ni Crizaa," baling sa kanya ng Ginang kanina. Hilaw siyang napangiti, "Three months po," pagsisinungaling niya. Napatango ito. Mabuti na lang at hindi na ito nagtanong muli dahil hindi na niya alam ang isasagot. Nakuha niyang makaubos ng alak ay hindi na bumalik si Hector. Nahihilo na nga siya noong magpunta sa parking lot para doon ito hintayin. Saktong kapapadala niya ng mensahe sa kapitbahay niyang si Ria para tingnan ang kambal noong mamataan si Hector. Napatuwid siya ng tayo noong makita na itong papalapit. Halatang galit kaya hindi na siya nagtanong. Agad na lang siyang pumasok sa sasakyan noong patunugin nito. Maging sa biyahe ay ramdam niya ang galit nito sa hindi malamang dahilan. Madiin ang hawak nito sa manibela. Isa lang ang sigurado niya. Nakausap nito si Crizaa at tiyak na nabigo ito lalo't noong pagdating nila sa bahay nito ay kitang-kita niya ang bumagsak na luha sa gilid ng mga mata nito. Nahabag siya dito, "Sirโ" "Go home, or if you want, you can sleep in one of the guestrooms. Thank you for today, Lorelei," pagtataboy nito sa kanya. Hindi niya alam kung dahil lang sa kalasingan kaya hindi niya ito maiwan. Naaawa siya rito. Agad siyang kumuha ng tissue, lumuhod sa upuan at inabot ang pisngi nito. Pareho pa silang natigilan noong hawakan nito ang kamay niya. "Don't. I'm not weak," pamimilit nito. Naamoy niya ang brandy sa hininga nito at sa malamang ay pareho lang silang may tama ng alak. Napalunok siya noong matitigan ang mga mata nitong dumilim. Balewala niyang pinunasan muli ang pisngi nito ngunit muli nitong pinigilan ang kamay niya. "S-irโ" "If you keep doing that, sa kama tayo babagsak. Umuwi ka bago pa magbago ang isip ko at ipinid ka sa kama," pagbabanta nito. May choice siya, pinapatakas siya nito pero ang katawan niya ay ayaw kumilos. Baka dahil lasing siya. "Pagbilang ko ng lima, lumabas ka na ng sasakyan. I have no mercy when it comes to bed, Kitten," mabigat na bulong nito. Nanuyo ang lalamunan niya at mas lalong hindi nakakilos. "One," pagsisimula nito, nagsimula rin ang mainit nitong palad na umakyat sa hita niya. "Two, get out, Kitty," sobrang paos na sambit na nito habang ang kamay ay nahanap ang garter ng underwear niya. "P-ero, Sirโ" "Five. Pagmumura pa nito bago hatakin ang bewang niya at siilin siya ng halik. Mabilis nitong hinila ang bewang niya at pinaupo siya sa kandungan nito. Nahatak niya ang longsleeve nito matapos nitong ipasok ang dila sa bibig niya habang ang palad nito ay nahatak paalis ang underwear niya. Nahanap ng palad nito ang pagkababae niya at diniin ang daliri doon na kinasinghap niya. Hindi siya makasabay sa halik nito. Naliliyo siya maging sa paghagod ng mga daliri nito sa pagkababae niya. Nanigas ang mga tuhod niya sa kiliti sa puson niya at pamamasa. Hindi siya makahinga nang maayos. Inayos ng isang palad nito ang mga hita niya at pinwesto sa bawat gilid nito. Marahan itong dumukwang at halos isandal siya sa manibela masiil lang siya ng halik muli. Tuluyan na siyang hindi nakasagot ng halik matapos naging mabilis ang hagod ng mga daliri nito sa kanyang ibaba. Napapasinghap siya at ang maiksing katinuhan sa utak niya ay nasakop na ng impluwensya ng alak. "Ahh!" mahinang halinghing niya noong bumaba ang mga labi nito sa panga niya. "I'm giving you another chance to run. Run, Lorelei," udyok na bulong nito kahit pa binababa na nito ang zipper ng dress na suot niya. Napapikit siya. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya sa sobrang init. Bumakas sa mukha niya ang bahagyang ngiwi noong dumausdos papasok ang isang daliri nito. "Not running away? Baka di ka na makalakad bukas. I'm telling you, I'm big," paos at mabigat muli nitong bulong na tila nagtitimpi. Hindi niya alam ngunit lalo siyang namasa sa boses nito. Doon nga lang nag-sink sa kanya na kapag natuloy sila, malalaman nitong hindi na siya Birhen. Mabilis siyang napamulat sa naisip. Balak niya sana itong itulak ngunit paghigit sa damit nito ang nagawa niya noong dumagdag ang daliri nito sa loob niya at sunod-sunod na umulos. "Lintik" hingal niyang pagmumura. Paano pa siya tatakbo kung ang titig nito sa kanya ay nanlalapa? Maalab at alam niyang hindi na ito mapipigilan. Nagawa nitong alisin ang bestida niya. Nailiyad niya pa ang dibdib ngunit agad na sinakop ng mainit nitong bibig ang isa at halos ubusin nito. Nahatak niya ang braso nito upang doon kumuha ng balanse. hubad na siya lahat habang ito ay kumpleto pa ang suot. Pati ang relo sa bisig nito ay naroon pa. "Uhhhh, S-ir!" hiyaw niya noong lalong bumilis ang mga daliri nito sa loob niya. Hindi niya una iyon pero may hapdi pa rin sa kabila ng sensasyong nararamdaman niya. Bumalik tuloy ang alaala niya kung paano nabuo ang kambal niyang anak. Kagaya ni Sir Hector ang lalaki, may kalakihan ang katawan. Ang pinagkaiba lang ay may rahas ang kilos ni Sir Hector. Naitaas niya ang tuhod noong mamilipit sa sarap ang puson niya. Mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa bibig niya matapos maramdaman ang pag-abot niya sa rurok. Hindi tumigil ang mga daliri nito sa pag-ulos ngunit pinakawalan ng bibig nito ang dibdib niya. Naghahabol siya ng hininga noong nilayuan nito ang leeg niya at dibdib. Wala sa sariling nakagat niya pa ang ibabang labi sa paghugot nito sa mga daliri nito. Gulantang nga lang siyang makitang sisubo nito ang mga iyon. "Sir!" pigil niya dito ngunit wala na, napapikit na ito sa pagsubo no'n. Agad pang ngumisi at bahagyang pumasada ang dila sa ibabang labi nito na tila hindi pa ito kuntento. "Addictive," sobrang paos na sambit nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Alam niyang may tama rin ito sa alak kaya nasabi iyon pero hiyang-hiya siya! Hindi pa siya nakababawi noong marinig ang pagbukas nito sa pinto. Napalunok siya at napakapit sa mga balikat nito noong buhatin siya sa ganoong ayos. Inikot pa nito ang mga hita niya sa bewang nito. "You're Birhen. This will hurt. Hindi pwede sa sasakyan. Saka na... kapag sanay ka na," namimigat nitong bulong na nagpatigil sa paghinga niya. Kumalabog ang dibdib niya. Dumiin ang kapit sa balikat nito noong pumasok ito sa bahay at iakyat siya sa kwarto. Marahan pa siya nitong binagsak sa kama ngunit mabilis na lumuhod sa sahig. Sumisinghap pa lang siya ng paghinga ay pinag-hiwalay na nito ang mga hita niya at agad na sinubsob ang bibig nito sa pagkababae niya. "Sir! Uhโohh!" Pinatigas agad nito ang dila at tinukso-tukso siya. Alam na alam nito ang gagawin. Nawala na nga sa isip niyang hindi pa siya nakapag-shave pero kung hagurin ng dila nito ang ibaba niya ay tila paboritong pagkain nito iyon. "Ahh!" Nailiyad niya ang katawan at naitaas ang bewang na mabilis nitong hinila upang mas maidiin ang bibig nito doon. Ang ngipin nito ay sumasabay kaya halos mahila na niya nang buo ang bedsheet sa nararamdamang init. Pinagpawisan na siya kahit pa malakas ang aircon sa kwarto nito. Hindi yata ito tumigil hangga't hindi naririnig ang mahabang ungol niya, senyales na muli niyang naabot ang langit. Hindi niya maisara ang bibig sa pagsimot nito doon. Kahit noong tumayo na ito ay nanghihina siya at hindi maisara ang mga hita niya. Maliit niyang minulat ang mga mata. Huli niya ang mainit nitong titig sa katawan niya habang nagtatanggal ng kasuotan. Pati mamahaling relo nito ay basta lang nito tinapon sa sofa. Ora mimso noong mahubad nito ang mamahaling boxer short ay gumapang ito sa itaas niya. "Ibuka ang iyong mga binti nang mas malawak, Kitty," senswal nitong utos. Kumakalabog lalo ang dibdib niya at nanunuyo ang lalamunan kahit pa sa hita pa lang niya dumikit ang naghuhumigting nitong sandata. Palad na mismo nito ang humagod sa mga hita niya at mas pinaghiwalay ang mga iyon. Napapikit siya noong tuluyang tumama ang sandata nito sa kaselanan niya. Paulit-ulit na humagod na tila tinutukso siya. Pati ang ilong at bibig nito ay panaka-nakang humalik sa leeg at panga niya na tila dinidistract siya nito. "Sir~" hirap niyang bulong at napakapit sa matigas nitong braso noong maramdaman ang dulo ng sandata nito. Tama ito! Malaki ito at duda siyang kakasya sa kanya. Baka muli lang siyang mapunit nito! Ang balak niyang pagtulak sana dito ay nauwi sa pagkapit sa braso nito noong pilitin nito ang pagpasok. Sumigid ang sakit sa kanya at halos magdugo ang labi sa pagkagat niya. Iyon ang pangalawang beses niya pero sa tagal na siguro ng panahon ay pakiramdam niya, unang beses pa lang niya iyon. Kita niyang umigting ang panga nito at tumalim ang tingin. Kinabahan siyang baka nahuli na siya nito pero nahanap nito ang mga palad niya at parehong pininid sa itaas ng ulo niya. Pinagsalikop nito ang mga kamay nila bago sinagad ang pagpasok na kinahiyaw niya. "Ahh!" Hindi niya ito mapalo, hindi niya mabawi ang mga nakapinid na kamay. Pinuno naman nito ng halik ang mukha niya. "Soon, the pain will fade away, Kitty," panunuyong bulong nito. Hindi na niya makilala ang sariling paghinga. Hinayaan siya nitong kumalma ngunit hindi rin ito nakatiis at nagsimulang umulos nang mabagal. Dinidiinan na lang niya ang kapit sa mga kamay nito kapag sinasagad nito nang buo sa loob niya. Dinig niya ang magaspang nitong ungol at tila nahihirapan ding bumayo sa loob niya. Para itong nagtitimpi sa mabagal na paggalaw. "H-indi ka gumamit ng goma, Sir," wala sa sariling sambit niya. "Doesn't matter. I will do withdrawal, don't worry," pagpapakalma nito. Ilang beses siyang lumunok. Ang balakang niya ay napapataas noong bumilis nang bahagya ang galaw nito. Malinaw sa pandinig niya ang pagsusumpungan ng mga kaselanan nila. Nangangalay ang mga hita niya sa pagkakahiwalay at halos lumubog sa kama sa laki ng katawan nito. "Ow!" malakas niyang hiyaw na hindi niya alam kung ilang beses niya naisigaw noong dumoble ang bilis nito. Para itomg may hinahabol at hindi magkamayaw. Ang kama nito ay tumutunog kasabay ng tunog ng kanilang mga katawan. Para itong nawala sa sarili at nagsunod-sunod ang pagbayo sa loob niya. Naghalo ang pawis nila at maging mga ungol. Napuno ang kwarto ng mga hiyaw niya. Nanghihina na siya noong maramdamang malapit na siya. Nagmadali rin ito at sunod sunod ang ulos hanggang sa magkapanabay silang mapaungol. Pinakawalan nito ang mga kamay niya kasabay ng mainit na likidong bumuhos sa loob niya. Parang tumigil ang tibok ng puso niya. Sa loob nito pinutok! Kinabahan siya. Hinihingal itong bumagsak sa itaas niya. "Sleep, Kitty," inaantok pa nitong bulong. Nataranta siya at gusto itong itulak ngunit napakalaki nito. Sumiksik pa ito sa dibdib niya at wala yatang pakialam kahit nasa loob pa niya ang sandata nito! "Sir, uuwi po ako," pilit niyang gising at tulak dito ngunit humigpit ang yakap nito sa bewang niya. "Later, stay still. Huwag kang gagalaw. Huwag mong gisingin," halos bulong na lang na sambit nito. Nanlamig siya sa tinutukoy nito. Pati tuloy paghinga niya ay napigilan niya huwag lang magising ang sandata nito. Para siyang timang na naghintay na humiwalay ito ngunit hindi niya rin namalayang nakatulog na siya. Paggising ay sikat ng araw ang tumama sa mga mata niya. Nasilaw siya at nahirapang magmulat ng mga mata. Masakit ang katawan niya, partikular ang pagkababae niya at mga hita. Doon nga lang din rumehistro sa kanya ang nangyari kagabi. "Punyeta!" napamura siya matapos matantong umaga na pero naroon pa rin siya sa kwarto ni Sir Hector. Mabilis niyang nilingon ang katabi ngunit wala na ito doon. Hindi na nga niya maalala kung ano'ng oras ito umalis sa itaas niya. Hihinga na sana siya nang maluwag kung hindi lang naramdaman ang madiing titig sa kanya na tumatagos sa balat niya. Napalunok siya at unti-unting napatingin sa harap niya. Sumikdo ang dibdib niya at nahila ang kumot. Naroon sa paanan niya si Sir Hector, nakaayos na ng business suit, nakapamulsa habang may hawak na baso ng brandy. Pinaghalong madiin at malamig na titig ang natanggap niya dito at noong liningon nito ang kama na walang bahid ng dugo, alam na niya agad ang nasa isip nito. "S-ir, m-agpapaliwanag po ako," sobrang kabang sambit niya lalo't tumalim ang titig nito at umigting ang panga. | Philip Spicy Reading | 83301 | https://www.facebook.com/61561349855790/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679647 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567632 | 1745816686 | 2451 | cdnjkfiw.com | Learn more | IMAGE | ๐Mga Anak ng Bilyonaryo๐ | https://www.cdnjkfiw.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=17755&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 3.8701676448549E+14 | Philip Spicy Reading | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475538753_966220194965237_5644856357126355269_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Fh7_4KbhZY4Q7kNvgHIC4rm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYDoIwqrbJzC1aiBQDB9htulBqS9oNFbE3Wf9Iu3iQwovg&oe=67A65038 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Madiing tinali ni Lorelei ang sintas ng luma niyang sapatos. Kalahating oras na lang ay magsisimula na ang klase niya ngunit hinihintay niya pa ang perang ibibigay ng kanyang Tita Agnes. Pang-huling taon na niya sa kolehiyo sa kursong business management. Gusto niya ay siya na ang mag-manage sa maliit na restaurant na iniwan ng yumao niyang ina na hawak ng Tita niya. Nagsalubong ang mga kilay niya at napasandal sa lumang sofa matapos marinig ang halinghing ng Tita niya mula sa kwarto. Sigurado siyang naroon na naman ang kinakasama nitong lalaki na si Richard. "Idiin mo, Richard!" dinig pa niyang sigaw ng Tita niya. Naiiling siyang pumikit. Maya-maya pa matatapos ang mga ito kaya naman tumayo na siya at kumatok sa pinto ng kwarto. "Tita, aalis na po ako." "Oh! Ode umalis kaโRichard!" muling hiyaw pa nito. "Iyong pera ko po," paalala niya pa rito ngunit daing at halinghing ang sagot nito. Paulit-ulit niyang kinatok ang pinto. Ang huling bigay nito ay limangdaan na pinagkasya niya ng isang linggo. Ayaw naman niyang basagin ang alkansyang baboy niya na mamiso lang ang laman. Nabitin sa ere ang pagkatok niya noong bumukas ang pinto. Niluwa no'n si Richard na pawisin, tanging basketball short ang suot, may hawak din itong libo-libong pera sa kamay. Namumutok ang mga braso nito at halos masakop ang pinto sa laki ng katawan. Mukha pa itong aburido noong tumingin sa kanya kaya napaatras siya. "Istorbo," parinig pa nito bago siya lagpasan. Napamaang siya at agad na pumasok sa kwarto. Huli niya pang nagsusuot pa lang ng t-shirt ang Tita niya. "Pera lang ang habol sa'yo ni Richard, Tita. Hiwalayan mo na iyon. Ang laki ng katawan no'n at kaya no'n ang magtrabahoโ" "Huwag kang makialam sa desisyon ko at hindi naman kita anak. Ikaw ang lumayas kung gusto mo. Bukas makalawa ay dito na titira si Richard. Mas maganda siguro kung humanap ka na ng ibang matitirahan at baka maging kaagaw pa kita sa kanya. Malaki ka na, kaya mo na ang sarili mo," pinal nitong sambit bago nagsuot ng underwear. Nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata niya, "Ginagatasan ka lang ng pera ni Richard, Titaโ" "Oh ayan, dalawang libo para matikom iyang bibig mo. Huling baon mo na iyan. Gagamitin ni Richard ang pera at magtatayo siya ng talyer." Mas lalo siyang nanlumo, "Hindi po pwede iyon. Pera ni Mama ang mga iyan. Kita sa restaurant niya, Tita. Huwag naman po kayong magpabilog kay Richard!" hindi niya mapigilang ilakas ang boses niya. Napalunok pa siya at natakot noong tumayo ito at lumapit sa kanya. Matalim na ang tingin nito. "Aba! Ano'ng pera ng Mama mo? Ilagay mo sa kokote mong matagal ng patay ang Mama mo at akin na ang restaurant na iyon. Pinag-aral at pinakain na kita. Nasa tamang edad ka na at kaya mo ng magtrabaho." Ilang beses pa nitong tinulak-tulak ang noo niya. "Hala sige, layas!" galit pa nitong sigaw bago siya itulak palabas ng pinto. Pinigil niya ang mga luha. Bandang huli ay hindi niya nakuha ang dalawang libong bigay nito. Nanghiram pa tuloy siya ng pera kay Nica. "Paano ang OJT mo? Titigil ka kailan huling taon na, Lei?" Nasapo niya ang noo at napasubsob sa mesa. Simula noong maging boyfriend ng Tita niya si Richard ay naging ganoon na ang Tita niya. "Ewan ko. Hindi ko na alam, Nica." Bumikig ang lalamunan niya sa badyang pag-iyak. Ni hindi niya pinansin ang grupong lumapit sa kanila. "Si Alicia," bulong pa sa kanya ni Nica. Si Alicia ang pinakasikat sa university nila. Mayaman, makinis, at madaming kakilala. Napasilip pa siya rito. Malaki ang ngiti nito, litaw ang naka-braces na ngipin. Ni hindi gumagalaw ang kulot na buhok na kulay blonde. Napaayos siya ng upo noong maglapag ito ng papel. "We're recruiting members for our sorority. You might want to join. Tonight is the initiation," magiliw nitong saad. Nangunot ang noo niya. Alam niyang hindi magandang sumali sa sorority ngunit noong mabasa niya ang mga benefits sa papel ay napalunok siya. "Free education and free allowance. Mayayaman lahat ng kasali at mga iilang negosyante. Nagpaparami lang kami ng miyembro. No fees, all free. Don't worry about the initiation, hindi naman iyon masakit. I would love to see both of you tonight." Kumindat pa ito bago umalis kasama ang dalawa pang alagad nito. "Maganda ang benefits nila, Lei. Solve ang problema mo kapag sumali tayo." Dumukwang ito at nilapit ang tainga sa kanya, "Tsaka alam mo ba, balita ko may kasapi silang Fraternity na puro gwapo," dagdag na bulong nito bago humagikhik. Wala siyang pakialam sa mga gwapo. Ang kagustuhan niyang makatapos ng kolehiyo ang nagtulak sa kanyang sumali. Makailang beses niya pang sinuklay ang malambot, tuwid, at maitim na hanggang balikat niyang buhok. Ginamit niya rin ang lipbalm upang malambot tingnan ang mga labi niya. Kaunting polbo lang ay sinuot na niya ang puting lumang bestida niyang abot hanggang tuhod at sandalyas na naging dirty white na. Kabado pa siya noong makarating sa hideout ng mga ito. Nasa pila na rin si Nica na agad kumaway sa kanya. Mabilis siyang lumapit. "Piliin raw natin iyong sarap sabi ni Alicia. Lahat kasi ng pumili ng hirap ay dinadala sa kabila at nakakatanggap ng hampas at palo," bulong nito. "Huh? Akala ko ba hindi masakit ang initiation nila?" "Hindi nga kapag sarap ang pinili mo. Basta, doon tayo sa turo ni Alicia. Ayokong magkapeklat, Lei." Napalunok siya at hindi mawari ang kaba sa dibdib niya. Makailang beses niya pang pinisil ang mga kamay. "Nica Fernandez!" sigaw ng lalaking tingin niya ay bouncer. Nagtaas ng kamay ang kaibigan niya bago humarap sa kanya. "Tandaan mo ang pipiliin mo, Lei. Iyon ang pipiliin ko. Magkita na lang tayo ulit bukas. Para sa pangarap, Lei!" pagpapasigla pa nito ngunit hindi niya masuklian ng ngiti. Siya na ang kasunod pagkatapos nito ngunit hindi na siya mapakali. May tatlo pang babae sa likod niya at dinig niyang pipiliin din ng mga ito ang pinapapili sa kanya ni Nica. "Lorelei Carpio!" Napaigtad siya sa malakas na sigaw ng bouncer. Muntik pa siyang madapa sa pagkataranta para lang makalapit. Tumuwid siya ng tayo. Pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin. Nangunot ang noo nito ngunit hindi nagkomento. Baka iniisip nitong bata siya sa height niyang 5'5 at balingkinitang katawan. "Sarap o hirap, Miss?" hindi nakangiting tanong nito. Napalunok siya at naumid yata ang dila pero kailangan niyang sumagot. Malaking benepisyo ang makukuha niya kapag natanggap siya sa sorority ni Alicia. "S-arap po," pikit-matang sagot niya. Inangat nito ang palad at agad na lumapit ang isa pang bouncer. "Nandiyan na ba si Phoenix?" tanong nito sa tinawag. "Kadarating lang pero nasa kwarto na." "Good. Ibigay mo 'yan sa kanya at ipaalala mong birhen 'yan," utos pa nito sa lalaki. Nangunot ang noo niya ngunit napapikit noong basta na lang siya lagyan ng blindfold sa mga mata. "B-akit po may blindfold?" kabadong tanong niya. "Hindi mo pwedeng makita ang makakasama mo. Bawal mong silipin o tanungin ang pangalan niya. Kapag ginawa mo iyon, madi-disqualify ka at hindi ka tatanggapin sa grupo," paalala pa ng bouncer na lumapit. Tinatak niya sa isip ang mga sinabi nito. Napasunod siya noong hilahin siya nito sa kung saan. Narinig niya rin ang tunog ng doorknob. Marahan pa siya nitong tinulak sa loob. Sumalubong sa kanya ang mabangong amoy ng lemon. Hindi niya mawari kung air freshener iyon o pabango. "New recruit?" tanong ng mababa at tila namamaos na boses. Nanindig pa ang mga balahibo niya sa bahagyang lamig sa boses nito. "Birhen 'yan. Ingatan mo." Nahigit niya ang hininga at kinabahan noong bitiwan na siya ng lalaki. Ramdam niya bigla ang tensyon sa paligid, maging ang mariing titig sa kanya. "I'm not gonna educate you. I hope you know why you are here and why you came here... willingly," seryosong sambit pa nito gamit ang namamaos nitong boses. Mabilis siyang tumango. Ang sabi sa kanya ay mabilis lang ang initiation kaya baka tanong nga lang iyon. "Uhm, I w-ant to finish my studies; that's why I came here," kabadong sagot niya ngunit malutong pagmumura ang narinig niya mula dito. Kasunod ay ang pagbukas ng pinto, "Inosente itong ni-recruit niyo! Get her outta here!" biglang sigaw nito sa labas. "You can't back out, Phoenix. Alam mo ang mangyayari sa kanya kapag pinaalis mo siya ngayon," madiing sagot ng kung sino. Marahas na buntong hininga ang narinig niya at malakas ding sinara ang pinto. Nagtaasan muli ang mga balahibo niya sa gulat noong humawak ang may kagaspangan nitong palad sa braso niya. "I hope you won't regret coming here," mabigat nitong bulong. Nanlamig siya noong umikot ang malaking braso nito sa bewang niya. Sa tantiya niya ay malaki din ang katawan nito lalo na noong lumapat ang balikat niya sa malapad nitong dibdib. Napaatras pa siya noong maramdaman ang daliri nitong binababa ang strap ng kanyang bestida. "A-nong gagawin mo?" Humakbang ito na kinaatras niya. Mahina siyang napasigaw sa pagbagsak niya sa kama. Gulat pa siya sa malaking katawan na biglang umibabaw sa kanya. Kumalabog ng husto ang puso nita. Sakop na sakop ng malaking katawan nito ang katawan niya. "S-andali!" Sinubukan niyang pigilan ang dibdib nito kahit hindi niya nakikita ngunit hinuli nito ang mga kamay niya at parehong pininid sa kama gamit ang isang palad nito. Bumigat ang paghinga niya lalo na noong sumiksik sa looban ng bestida niya ang malaking palad nito. "You should not have come here, Miss. Now you left me no choice but to take you," mabigat na bulong nito bago lumapat ang mga basang labi sa kanyang leeg. Lalo siyang nanlamig matapos matanto ang nangyayari. Hindi siya nakakilos. Ang naglalakabay nitong mainit na palad at ang malaking katawan nito sa itaas niya ay sapat na upang mangilid ang mga luha niya. "H-uwag po," nanginig pa ang boses niya. Marahas na bumuntong hininga ang lalaki, "You chose this. I tried my best to help you. The least thing I can do... is to be gentle," tila nahihirapang bulong nito. Napalunok siya kahit pa unti-unti nitong naalis ang mga saplot niya. Niyakap siya ng lamig ng aircon ngunit natakpan sa init ng malaking katawan nitong nasa itaas niya. Ang kabog ng dibdib niya ay walang kasing lakas sa pinaghalong kaba at kung ano man ang pinaparamdam nito sa kanya lalo noong dumausdos ito pababa... sa pagitan ng mga hita niya. Nanginig ang mga hita niya noong maramdaman ang mainit nitong paghinga't bibig nitong dumampi doon. Pinagpawisan siya nang malagkit kasabay ng kaba. Tanging impit na ungol at daing ang naibulalas niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang bibig nito doon. Napapabalikwas ang bewang niya ngunit hindi ito masipa. Para siyang na-estatwa noong magtagal ito doon hanggang sa mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa mga labi niya. Hinihingal pa siya sa paggapang nito muli sa itaas niya, pinaghiwalay ang mga hita niya, at pinwesto ang malaking katawan doon. Hindi siya nakaprotesta, naumid ang dila niya at hindi mahanap ang boses niya. Sunod na lang niyang namalayan ay ang pagtulo ng luha niya sa hapdi matapos mag-isa ang katawan nila. Namilipit siya sa sakit sa bawat galaw nito. Tila napunit na nito lahat ng nasa loob niya at kahit bagalan pa nito ay hiyaw ang kumakawala sa bibig niya. Pinirmi pa nito ang bewang niya. Nawalan na rin ng lakas ang mga kamay niya na kahit binitiwan nito ay hindi siya nakakilos para itulak ito. Namimigat ang paghinga niya at napapa-igik sa bawat madiing galaw nito sa loob niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang malaking katawan nitong gumagalaw sa kanyang itaas. Ni hindi niya alam kung paanong natapos ang pangyayaring iyon. Ang alam niya lang ay nakuha ng isang estrangherong lalaki ang puri niya. Paggising niya ay nananakit ang katawan niya. Takot pa siyang alisin ang blindfold ngunit kusa iyong nalaglag. Namulatan niya ang tahimik na kwarto, walang bakas na may nakasama siya ngunit ang dugo sa kobre kama ay patunay na wala na sa kanya ang iniingatan niya. Napasubsob siya sa kanyang tuhod at napahagulhol. Masyado siyang nagpadalos-dalos sa desisyon niya! Dapat ay inalam niya muna kung ano'ng klaseng sarap ang sinasabi ng mga ito! Kahit hirap maglakad ay pinilit niya ang sariling magbihis at umalis sa lugar na iyon. Wala na rin naman ang mga bouncer. Kahit si Nica ay hindi niya mahagilap. Sa sobrang pagod niya ay hindi na niya pinansin ang boyfriend ng Tita niya na nasa sala. Diretso siyang kwarto at binagsak ang katawan doon. Ang masama, nilagnat pa siya at napanaginipan ng ilang beses ang nangyari! Tatlong araw din siyang hindi nakapasok. Para siyang lutang na naglalakad noong pumasok na sa eskwela. Natulala pa siya sa nakangiti niyang kaibigan. "Bayad na ang tuition fee nating dalawa. Ang galing! May allowance pa, Lei!" Hagikhik nito bago pinakita ang cheque na may malaking halagang nakasulat. Napalunok siya. Ito na iyon. Ito na ang kapalit ng pagsali nila sa Sorority. Dapat bang kalimutan na lang niya ang nangyari sa kanila ng lalaki? "Ang balita ko ay mga Fraternity leader ang mga lalaking iyon, Lei. Hindi ko rin nakilala ang sa'kin," kwento pa ni Nica sa kanya. "H-indi ka ba umiyak? O nasaktan? Ako kasi pakiramdam ko nahati ang katawan ko," mahinang sambit niya. Namula ang mga pisngi nito, "Hindi ko una iyon kaya... sakto lang ang sakit." Napaawang ang mga labi niya sa kaibigan. Hindi pa mag-sink in sa kanya iyon. Wala naman siyang karapatan na husgahan ito kaya tumango na lang siya. "Wala bang meeting ang Sorority ngayon? Gusto kong magtanong kay Alicia. Baka pwede ko ng makita man lang iyong Phoenix na nakasama ko," imbis ay liko niya sa usapan. "Hindi tayo natanggap doon, Lei." "A-no? P-aanong hindi? Pero bayad na ang tuition fee base na rin sa benefits nila." Umiling ito, "Bayad iyon sa'tin, Lei. Hindi tayo kasapi ng grupo nila. Hindi tayo tinanggap." Para siyang nabingi sa narinig. Kumuyom ang kamao niya. Ang ibig sabihin ay inalay lang sila sa mga Fraternity leader na iyon. Gusto niyang magdamdam at ibalik ang perang natanggap ngunit hindi niya magawa lalo na noong mas maghigpit sa pera ang Tita Agnes niya. Naka-survive siya ng halos dalawang buwan sa allowance na bigay ng grupo. May natira pa ngunit hindi sasapat iyon kaya muli siyang kumakatok sa kwarto ng Tita niya. "Tita, hihingi po sana ako ng allowanceโ" Nabitin sa ere ang kamay niya at napatingala kay Richard noong buksan nito ang kwarto. Sumandal pa ito at humalukipkip. Napaatras siya noong bigla siya nitong pasadahan ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Nagtagal pa ang mga titig nito sa mga dibdib niya kaya nayakap niya ang sarili. "B-akit ka nandito? N-asaan si Tita Agnes?" Ngumisi ito at mas niluwangan ang pinto, "Dito na ako nakatira. May binili lang ang Tita mo. Kalahating oras pa iyon sa bayan. Baka gusto mong paligayahin muna kita." Napasinghap siya sa takot at umatras "Manyak!" galit niyang sigaw dito ngunit pilit nitong inabot ang siko niya at hinihila siya papasok sa kwarto. "Mabilis lang, Lei. Hindi malalaman ng Tita mo. Tayong dalawa langโ" "Bitiwan mo ko! Ayoko sa'yo!" Malakas niya itong sinampal. Nabitiwan siya nito at sinalo ang pisnging sinampal niya. "Punyeta ka, Lorelei! Bakit mo sinampal si Richard?!" biglang sigaw ng Tita niya mula sa likod kaya natulos siya sa kinatatayuan.p Nanginig siya sa kaba lalo na sa nanlilisik na tingin ng Tita niya. "T-ita, kasiโ" "Lumayas kang Punyeta ka! Palamunin ka na nga lang hindi ka pa marunong rumespeto!" Namilog ang mga mata niya noong bigla na lang siya nitong hilahin sa buhok at kaladkarin sa labas ng bahay. "T-ita, nagkakamali kayo! Sinubukan niya akong dalhin sa kwartoโ" "Wala akong pakialam! Napakalandi mo at pati boyfriend ko inaakit mo!" sigaw nito bago siya tinulak sa labas ng pinto. Muntik na siyang sumubsob sa lupa kun'di siya nakabalanse. Malakas pa nitong sinarado ang pinto ngunit bumalik para lang itapon sa pagmumukha niya ang iilang damit. "Lumayas ka at huwag kang babalik dito! Hindi ko kailangan ng malanding pamangkin!" sobrang lakas na sigaw nito na nakapagpalabas sa mga kapitbahay nila. Hiyang-hiya siya noong magbulungan ang mga iyon. Nayakap na lang niya ang mga damit at ang alkansyang baboy niyang tinapon nito sa kanyang paanan. Nagbagsakan ang mga luha niya. Gusto niyang ipaglaban na bahay iyon ng Mama niya ngunit alam niyang hindi na makikinig ang tiyahin niya. Tinago na lang niya ang mukha sa mga damit na hawak at mabilis na nagtawag ng tricycle. Nagpunta siya kila Nica at maging ito ay gigil na gigil sa tiyahin niya at kay Richard matapos niyang magkwento. "Ipabarangay mo, Lei. Wala siyang karapatan sa bahay na iyon. Sa'yo iyon! Pati ang negosyo ng Mama mo, sa'yo iyon! Pinagkaitan ka niya, lahat ng pera ng Mama mo siya ang nagwaldas. Hmp! Kumukulo ang dugo ko sa Tita Agnes mo!" Umakto pa itong manunugod ngunit pinigilan niya sa siko at umiling dito. "H-uwag na, Nica. Hindi ko na rin naman gugustuhing bumalik doon lalo na kung naroon si Richard." "Pero paano ka? Saan ka titira? Paano ang pag-aaral mo? Patapos na tayo, Lei. Bayad na rin ang tuition fee mo." Bumagsak ang tingin niya sa sahig at nanlabo ang mga mata. Hindi niya rin alam kung paano malalagpasan iyon pero pinilit niyang maghanap ng trabaho at apartment na maliit. Sakto lang sa kanya ngunit pagod na pagod nga lang siya bilang waitress ng eatery. Makailang beses tuloy siyang nakatulog sa klase at ang huli ay nahuli pa siya ng lalaking matandang professor niya. "Miss Carpio, alam mong bawal matulog sa klase ko." Napalunok siya at hindi mapigilan ang mga pumipikit na mga mata, "S-orry, Sir. Hindi na po mauulit." Umismid ito at lumayo ngunit noong makita siya na muling pumikit ay galit na siya nitong pinalabas. Nanghihina tuloy siyang napakapit sa pader ng hallway. Naghabol ng paghinga at pakiramdam niya ay umiikot ang paligid niya. Isang hakbang pa ay alam niyang sinakop na siya ng dilim. Noong magising ay nasa tabi na niya si Nica na mukhang kinabahan. Mabilis pa itong umalalay noong pilitin niyang umupo. "Ano'ng nangyari? Tsaka bakit ako nasa clinic, Nica?" Natameme ito ngunit nangilid ang luha sa gilid ng mga mata. Binugso tuloy siya ng kaba at napatitig dito. "B-akit, Nica?" Suminghot ito, "B-untis ka, Lei." Tila nawalan siya ng paghinga sa narinig mula dito. Napalunok siya at nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata. "Hindi gumamit ng proteksyon ang nakasama mo sa initiation, Lei. Binuntis ka niya," sobrang hinang sambit nito. Bumagsak ang luha niya at nanginginig ang kamay na dumapo sa impis niyang tiyan. "Patakaran ng Fraternity nila na gumamit ng proteksyon, pero dahil buntis ka... sigurado akong hindi siya gumamit no'n," patuloy pa nitong paliwanag ngunit naba-blangko na ang isip niya lalo't hindi na niya alam ang sunod na gagawin sa buhay niya. "P-aano ko siya mahahanap, Nica? Paano na ako? Hindi ko pa kaya." Tuloy - tuloy na naglandas ang mga luha niya habang inaalala ang pangalan ng lalaki. "Phoenix. Tama, Phoenix ang pangalan niya, Nica. Hanapin na'tin. Itanong na'tin kay Alicia," pagsusumamo niya sa kaibigan ngunit umiling ito. "Phoenix is just a code name, Lei. Sigurado akong hindi rin siya kilala ni Alicia lalo na kung isa siya sa mga leader," sagot nito na nagpabagsak sa mga balikat niya. "Tingin ko, sinadya niyang buntisin ka," muling sambit nito na nagpakuyom sa kamao niya. FIVE YEARS LATER Para siyang pinutulan ng pakpak dahil sa nangyaring iyon sa buhay niya. Wala siyang choice noon kun'di tumigil sa pag-aaral at magpokus sa trabaho para may pera pagkapanganak niya. Sinubukan naman niyang hanapin ang lalaki, pati nga si Alicia ay ginulo niya ngunit bigla na lang itong naglaho na parang bula. Pati ang kaibigan niyang si Nica ay bigla ring nawala at hindi alam kung saan napunta kaya natakot siyang maghaluglog pa ng impormasyon. Ang tanging nalaman niya ay leader ng Alpha Omega Fraternity ang lalaking nakakuha sa pagkabirhen niya. Limang taon na ang lumipas ngunit hindi niya talaga makakalimutan ang nangyaring iyon lalo't dalawang supling ang pabaon sa kanya ng lalaki. "Mama, wait ka namin mamaya. Promise mo bibili po tayo ng toys?" Kumurap-kurap pa sa kanya ang biluging mga mata ng anak niyang babaeng si Odessy. Marahan siyang lumuhod at inayos ang pagkaka-pigtail ng buhok nito. "Promise! Huwag kang lalayo kay Achi ah? Makinig kay teacher," habilin niya dito bago marahang hinila din palapit ang anak niyang lalaking si Achilles. "Mama, iyong book. Isa na lang bilhin mo po, share na lang kami ni Ody," marahang paalala sa kanya ni Achilles. Pilit siyang ngumiti sa mga ito. Parehong nasa daycare ang dalawa. Pinipilit niyang maibigay lahat ng pangangailangan nila pero sobrang hirap lalo't hindi siya tapos ng kolehiyo at hindi makahanap ng trabahong mataas ang pasahod. "Hindi pwede, Achi. Kailangan tig-isa kayo. Doon kayo sasagot. Ako ng bahala. Bantayan mo ang kapatid mo. Baka makipag-away." Ginulo niya pa ang buhok ito at marahang kinurot ang hindi kalakihang pisngi. "Pwede naman ako sa papel lang sasagot, Mama," pilit nito na inilingan niya. Ayaw niya ng ganoon. Hindi niya ipagkakait ang magandang edukasyon sa mga anak niya. Hindi hangga't nabubuhay siya. "Si Mama na bahala. Ubusin niyo baon niyo. Okii?" Malawak na ngumiti si Ody sa kanya at humawak sa braso ng kapatid. Si Achi man ay pilit na ngumiti. "Mama, ingat!" sabay pang sigaw ng dalawa bago maglakad papasok sa classroom. Pinigilan niya ang naninikip na dibdib matapos tumama sa liwanag ng araw ang mga mata ng mga ito at masilayan kung paanong naging kayumanggi ang mga itim na mga mata ng mga ito. Ilang beses na niyang hinanap sa mga lalaki ang ganoong klase ng mata. Maitim kapag walang araw ngunit kulay kayumanggi kapag nasinagan. Hindi ganoon ang mga mata niya kaya sigurado siyang namana ng dalawa iyon sa mga ama ng mga ito. Hindi rin siya naniniwalang sinadya siyang buntisin ng lalaking iyon dahil hanggang ngayon, walang nagpapakilala para akuin ang mga anak niya. Bumuga siya ng hangin at agad na nagtungo sa opisina ng abogadong amo niya. Ngunit masamang balita ang bumungad sa kanya. "I'm really sorry, Lei. Ipapasara na ang firm. Sa bahay na muna magtatrabaho ang asawa ko at ako na muna ang sekretarya niya. Pasensya ka na. Huling sahod mo na 'to." Nilapit pa ni Misis Alvarez ang sobre sa kanya. Napalunok siya at napatitig doon. Dalawang taon na siyang sekretarya ni Mr. Alvarez at hindi naman lingid sa kaalamam niyang pabagsak na ang firm nito. Nilunok na lang niya ang bikig sa lalamunan niya. Sigurado siyang mahihirapan na naman siyang maghanap ng trabaho. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Umikot na rin sa isip niya ang mga bayarin niya. Simula sa renta sa bahay, sa kuryente, allowance ng kambal, at mga bayarin sa eskwela. "W-ala po ba kayong kilala na... pwede kong lipatan, Misis Alvarez?" Bumuntong hininga ang Ginang, "Tatawagan ko ang kakilala ko, Hija. Itatanong ko kung may alam siyang naghahanap ng sekretarya pero hindi ako nangangako. Tatawagan na lang kita." Bagsak ang balikat na umalis siya doon. Halos hindi siya makalunok matapos bilangin ang iilang libong sahod niya para sa buwan na iyon. Tubig nga lang ang binili niya sa convenience store habang nagtitingin - tingin sa diyaryo. Kahit ano'ng trabaho papatusin na niya kaysa walang trabaho sa loob ng ilang buwan. "Tanggal na naman?! Pang ilan na 'yan ngayong buwan. Ano bang gusto niya? Single? Walang single na babae ang papatol sa gusto ni Mr. Montanier โFine, Eman. Ako na ang maghahanap ng bago niyang sekretarya. Kainis!" Nagpantig ang tainga niya sa narinig at mabilis na napaangat ng tingin sa Ginang na aburidong binaba ang hawak na cellphone. Mabilis siyang tumayo noong akma itong lalabas sa convenience store. Nagulat ito noong pigilan niya sa braso. "Bakit, Hija?" Kumunot ang noo nito sa kanya. Sa tantiya niya ay nasa edad forty-five na ito base na rin sa iilang litaw na puting buhok. "N-aghahanap po kayo ng sekretarya?" kabadong tanong niya. Literal na pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Sa kaba niya ay nabitiwan niya ang braso nito. "May asawa ka?" Mabilis siyang umiling, "Wala po!" Tumango ito at nilahad ang kamay kaya mabilis niyang nilagay doon ang resume niya. Mabilis nitong pinasadahan ang papel bago pinasok sa bag nito. "Tanggap ka na. Sumama ka sa'kin." Walang pagdadalawang isip siyang sumama sa Ginang. Imbis na sa kumpanya ay sa malaki at modernong bahay siya dinala. Sa isang exclusive subdivision iyon. Babasagin ang dingding at kumikinang ang mga mamahaling mwebles ng bahay. Kulay abo at puti ang bahay kaya sigurado siyang lalaki ang magiging amo niya. "Ako si Melia, Hija. Pinaka-sekretarya ni Sir Hector. Bukod sa'kin, may isa pa siyang sekretarya, si Eman. Pareho kaming sa kumpanya at kailangan pa ng isa pang sekretarya ni Sir Hector. On-call at kung pwede ay stay-in." Natigilan siya sa sinabi nito, "Stay-in po?" Hindi pwede sa kanya ang trabahong ganoon lalo na kung hindi pwedeng dalhin ang mga anak niya. "Bawal ba, Hija? Kaya tinanong kita kung may asawa ka. Madalas na magtrabaho sa bahay si Hector. Workholic at umaabot ng madaling araw. Kailangan na may magremind sa kanya sa schedule at dapat niyang pirmahan. Hindi naman madalas na stay-in pero paglalaanan na kita ng kwarto dito. Wala ka naman din sigurong anak di ba? Gusto niya ay single, walang extra baggage at kaya ang trabaho. Sana naman ikaw na ang huli at magtatagal dito sa bahay niya," patuloy na paliwanag nito. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Kung ganoon hindi niya pwedeng sabihin na may kambal siyang anak. "Maglipat ka na ng iilang gamit mo. Pwede kang bumalik bukas ng umaga para pag-usapan ang sahod mo. Nasa event pa si Sir Hector at madaling araw pa babalik. Lahat ng gamit dito pwede mong gamitin. Kung masipag ka, linisin mo na rin, may dagdag sahod naman. Isabay mo na rin ang kwarto niya." "Hindi po ba nakakatakot si Sir Hector?" Natigil ito sa tanong niya. Pagkaraan ay tinuro ang malaking portrait sa sala. Sinundan niya iyon ng tingin. Nagtaasaan ang mga balahibo niya sa klase ng tingin nito sa camera. Galit maging ang magkasalubong nitong makapal na kilay. Walang ngiti ang manipis na labi at mabalbas na panga. Halata ring matigas ang panga nito. At ang ilong, sobrang tangos! Maging ang buhok nitong nakasuklay palikod ay kumikinang sa larawan. Higit sa lahat, litaw ang matipunong dibdib nitong may makapal na balahibo. Sa larawan ay seryoso itong nag-aayos sa relong pambisig. "He's Hector Montanier and he's a perfectionist. So please, beware. Huwag kang gumawa ng bagay na ikakagalit niya kung ayaw mong mawalan agad ng trabaho, Hija," madiing paalala nito kaya napalunok siya. Kaya niya ba? Kaya niya bang pagsilbihan ang lalaking sa larawan pa lang ay mukhang papatay na? Paano pa sa personal? Baka hindi na siya makahinga kapag nakaharap ito. "Gusto ka niyang makausap." Gulat pa siya noong ilahad ni Miss Melia ang cellphone sa kanya. Nanginginig ang kamay niyang tinanggap iyon at nilagay sa tainga niya. Dinig niya ang mahinang musika sa background ngunit mas dinig niya ang mabibigat nitong paghinga. "Your name?" swabe at malamig ang boses nito kaya nahigit niya ang paghinga. "L-orelei Carpio po, Sir." Mahina ngunit marahas na paghinga ang narinig niya mula dito. "Lorelei, hmm," namamaos na sambit nito sa pangalan niya at hindi niya alam kung bakit naghatid iyon ng kakaibang init sa kaibuturan niya. Mabilis niyang binalik ang cellphone kay Miss Melia. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya at hindi kayang kausapin ang bagong boss niya. "B-abalik na lang po ako bukas," tarantang paalam niya. Kahit hindi pa ito um-oo ay lumabas na siya ng bahay na iyon. May mali sa pakiramdam niya. Bakit ganoon? Bakit pakiramdam niya buong boses nito ang humagod sa katawan niya? Iniisip niya pa kung narinig na ba niya iyon noon, pamilyar ngunit hindi niya maalala. "Lorelei, hmm." Muling umulit sa isipan niya ang pagtawag nito sa kanya. Naipagdikit niya ang mga hita lalo't tila namasa ang nasa pagitan ng mga iyon. Bumigat ang paghinga niya. Parang ayaw na niyang tanggapin ang trabaho lalo na kung araw - araw niyang makakasalamuha si Hector Montanier. Tulala tuloy siya noong sunduin ang kambal. Dinala niya pa sa malapit na bilihan ng laruan para na rin makalimutan niya ang pagtawag ni Sir Hector sa kanya. "Itong teddy bear na lang, Mama. Kapag barbie, ako lang ang maglalaro, kapag car naman, si Achi lang. Pero itong bear, pwede kaming share, Mama!" Masiglang tinaas pa ni Ody ang maliit na puting teddy bear. Nahabag siya sa mga ito. Hindi man lang niya maibili ng kahit tig-isang laruan. Hindi man lang niya mapakain sa sikat na fastfood ang mga anak. Mabilis siyang tumango ngunit umiwas ng tingin noong mapansin ang paninitig ni Achi sa kanya. Binayaran na lang niya ang teddy bear para makauwi na sila. Akala niya ay nakaligtas na siya sa mapanuring titig ng anak ngunit hindi. "Mama, iyong book. Kailangan na raw bilhin. Isa na lang, Mama. Kay Ody na lang. Kung hindi pwede, sa susunod na lang po ako mag-aral," kalmadong pagkausap ni Achi sa kanya. Parang pinilipit ang puso niya. Hindi niya hahayaan na mangyari iyon! Hindi deserve ng mga anak niya na maranasan ang nangyari sa kanya. "Hindi, Achi. Bibilhin natin bukas iyon. May bago na akong trabaho." Pinisil niya pa muli ang pisngi nito. Namula nga iyon lalo na't sobrang puti ng dalawa. Ang balak tuloy niyang pagtanggi na sa trabaho ay naudlot. Mas kailangan niya pala iyon. Bahala na kung ano'ng klaseng tao si Sir Hector, basta siya, trabaho lang ang gusto niya. Kinabukasan ay kinausap niya ang mga ito na gagabihin siya. Ayaw niyang iwanan pero hindi niya pwedeng isama. Kung malaki ang sahod niya ay kukuha siya ng bantay para sa mga ito. Kabado siyang bumalik sa malaking bahay. Sa harap pa lang ng pinto ay kumakalabog na ang dibdib niya. Kita na niya roon ang mamahaling sport car na wala kahapon. Nanginginig tuloy ang kamay niyang i-input ang code na pinadala pa sa mensahe ni Miss Melia upang mabuksan niya ang pinto. Pagbukas ay tumambad sa kanya ang pares ng mamahaling itim na sapatos. Pinulot niya iyon upang maitabi. Ngunit nabaling ang atensyon niya sa mahinang hilik sa sala. Kinakabahan siyang lumapit. Tumingkayad para lang masilip ang bagong boss niyang mahimbing ang tulog sa sofa. Halos hindi nga ito magkasya doon sa laki ng katawan. Ang isang binti nito ay nasa sahig habang ang isa ay nasa arm rest. Unan nito ang namumutok na braso at higit sa lahat ay bukas ang suot nitong puting longsleeve kaya't malaya niyang nasilayan ang makapal na balahibo sa matipuno nitong dibdib. Napalunok siya at imbis na lumiko ay umakyat ang tingin niya sa awang nitong mga labi. Namumula at nakasilip pa ang pantay-pantay na puting ngipin nito. Sa totoo lang, para itong modelo ng brief at toothpaste na lumabas sa magazine. Pati panga ay naninigas at sigurado siyang hindi basta-basta ang alaga nito sa ibaba. Ano bang pinag-iisip niya?! "Are you done checking me out, Miss?" namamaos pang bigkas nito bigla kaya napasinghap siya. Nabitin sa ere ang paghinga niya at namilog ang mga mata noong magkatitigan sila. Inaantok pa ang itim nitong mga mata at sobrang haba ng mga pilikmata kaya lalo siyang hindi nakapagsalita. "Close your mouth. Your lips look so delectable," inaantok nitong bigkas muli ngunit iba ang dating ng boses sa kanya kaya nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Ang boses nito ay parang kagagaling sa nakakapagod na ehersisyo sa kama. Magaspang na namamaos. "Close them... please. I might kiss you if you keep drooling on me. Do you want me... to take you here?" biglang tanong nito kaya namula lalo ang mga pisngi niya. Para siyang naeskandalo at hindi na makatingin dito ngunit nahuli niya ang pag-angat ng gilid ng labi nito. Hindi iyon ngiti kun'di maliit na ngisi. Lumitaw pa sa kanang gilid ng labi nito ang hindi kalalimang dimple. "Just kidding. Let's talk inside my office," bawi nito bago biglang bumangon. Mabilis siyang umiwas at napayuko noong basta na lang ito nag-alis ng butones ng longsleeve nito at swabe iyong hinubad. "Do I smell liquor?" mabigat na tanong nito kaya lang ay ayaw niyang lumingon dito kaya nanatili ang titig niya sa sahig. "I'm asking you. Amoy alak ba ako, Lorelei?" halos paos na naman ang boses nito kaya napapikit siya nang mariin. Iba talaga ang hagod ng boses nito sa katawan niya. Lahat ng balahibo niya ay nagtataasan at pati puson niya ay nakikiliti. Napalunok siya noong maramdaman ang paglapit nito. Pagmulat pa niya ay mabalahibong paa ang nakita niya sa harap ng mga paa niya. "N-o, Sir. H-indi po kayo amoy alak," kabadong sagot niya noong akma siya nitong hahawakan. Pag-angat ng tingin niya ay seryoso itong naninitig sa kanya. Salubong ang kilay. Hindi niya nga maitutok ang tingin sa mukha nito lalo't nakabalandra sa harap niya ang hubad nitong katawan. Bumigat ang paghinga niya at gusto na lang pindutin ang matitigas nitong muscles. "In my office," may awtoridad na nitong utos bago tumalikod. Napabuga siya ng hangin. Napapaypay sa sarili at hindi maiwasang manghina. Parang naubos ang lakas niya dito. Sinulyapan niya na lang ang matipuno nitong likod na pumasok sa isang pinto. Huminga siya nang malalim nang ilang beses at binalik ang mga sapatos sa sahig bago sumunod. Nakasandal na ito sa swivel chair at mukhang hinihintay siya. Nahuli niya agad ang mariing titig nito. "Here, Lorelei," malalim na sambit nito at marahang tinipa ang daliri nito sa mesa. Tahimik siyang lumapit kahit nahihiya. Na-conscious siya sa paninitig nito at pakiramdam niya ay hubad na siya sa isip nito. "I might require you to work 24/7, so make sure you don't have any extra baggage to attend to. Don't worry, I'll pay you triple or name your price," seryosong saad nito matapos iabot sa kanya ang blankong cheque na may pirma na nito. Napatitig siya doon ngunit hindi inasahan ang pagtayo nito at paglapit sa likod niya. Muli siyang naestatwa matapos maramdaman ang init ng paghinga nito sa bandang tainga at leeg niya. Hindi pa siya nakakilos noong lumapat sa bewang niya ang mainit at malaking palad nito. "S-ir," kabado niyang bigkas. "Single?" imbis ay tanong nito kaya mabilis siyang tumango. "Good. Birhen?" sunod na tanong nito kaya nanlaki ang mga mata niya. Hindi siya makasagot. Sasabihin ba niyang may anak na siya at kambal pa? Baka hindi siya nito tanggapin! "Y-es, Sir," pagsisinungaling niya. Marahas itong huminga na tila nahihirapan at nagpipigil. Napaangat nang bahagya ang balikat niya noong tumama doon ang matangos nitong ilong na tila inaamoy siya. Nakiliti pa siya sa mabalbas nitong pangang na humagod sa balat niya. "Perfect for me," halos dumikit pa ang labi nito sa paos nitong bulong kasabay ng pagdiin ng palad nito sa kanyang bewang na tila gusto na siyang sunggaban. Hindi niya alam na kanina pa niya pigil ang paghinga kung hindi lang ito lumayo. "Ikukuha kita ng dress. We'll attend an event," pinal na sambit nito kaya namilog ang mga mata niya. "Po? Sir, hindi po pwedeโ" Mas namilog ang mga niya noong tumama sa mga labi niya ang hintuturo nito upang patigilan siya. "Shhh. Sasama ka. You're now my secretary. Kung nasaan ako, doon ka." madiing sagot nito na akala mo ay hindi iyon big deal. Hindi siya makareklamo. Paglabas ng opisina nito ay gusto niyang ibalik ang cheque. Tinawagan niya rin si Miss Melia. "Hindi ka pwedeng umatras, Lorelei. Lagyan mo limang milyon iyang cheque niya para makabawi ka kung gusto mo. Kumpara sa mga nauna sa'yo, mas pabor si Sir Hector sa'yo. Mag-enjoy ka na lang sa event, Hija." Napirmi ang mga labi niya. Dapat pala pinag-isipan niyang mabuti. Napilitan tuloy siyang mag-ayos. Hindi pa siya kumportable sa baby blue cocktail dress na inorder nito. Yukong-yuko siya noong titigan nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya matapos masulyapan ang madiing titig nito. Para tuloy siyang hindi makahinga sa paninitig nito. Pakiramdam niya ay hinuhubaran na siya nito sa isip pa lang. "Chin up. You look... gorgeous," mahinang papuri nito. Sinubukan nitong hawakan ang bewang niya ngunit umiwas siya. Hilaw siyang ngumiti. "Alis na po tayo para agad makabalik, Sir." Nauna pa siya sa harap ng sasakyan nito. Nanliliit ang tingin nito noong pagbuksan siya ng pinto. Mali ba na umiwas dito? Boss niya ito at mali na magustuhan siya nito. Umikot ito sa driver seat noong makaupo na siya. Namroblema pa siya paano aayusin ang seatbelt ngunit nahigit niya ang hininga noong ito mismo ang umagaw sa seatbelt niya at nag-ayos no'n. Nasamyo niya tuloy ang matapang nitong pabango na may halong lemon. Akala pa niya ay ang air freshener pero hindi, amoy lemon talaga ito at masarap sa ilong. Maliit itong nangunguso noong paandarin ang sasakyan. Umiiwas siya ng tingin dito. Kumakalabog ang dibdib niya ngayong nasa isang sasakyan lang sila. Kinipkip niya pa ang bag sa mga hantad niyang hita. "How old are you, Lorelei?" biglang tanong nito na muntik magpatalon sa kanya sa upuan. "T-wenty five, Sir." "Hm. Never been touched? Never been kissed? And of course, never... Am I right?" senswal at bulgar nitong tanong. Tumiim bagang siya. Alam na niya ang kalibre nito kung bakit gusto nito ng Birhen. Sigurado siyang marami na rin itong naikama at delikado siya kung hindi siya mag-iingat. "I'm not comfortable with tbose questions, Sir," pag-amin niya. Hindi ito kumibo. Nasilip niya ang pagsasalubong ng kilay nito. Nakasandal na nga ang siko nito sa bintana at pinaglalaruan ng mga daliri nito ang ibabang labi nito. Isang kamay lang ang gamit nitong pagdrive. Nakarolyo ang asul na manggas ng longsleeve at ang lakas manampal ng kayamanan ng mamahaling relo nito. "Would you like to pretend to be my girlfriend?" biglang tanong nito sa kawalan. "Po?" Umigting ang panga nito, "My ex will be there with her new boytoy. Ayoko talagang magpunta na mag-isa, but I have to show up. It's business related. Ipapakilala kitang bagong girlfriend ko. Don't worry, I'll pay you for this," paliwanag nito. "Pero, Sirโ" "Just this once, Kitty. After this, you can be just my plain secretary." Napakurap siya at napalinga pa sa backseat kung sino ang tinawag nitong Kitty. "Cute, Kitten," nangingising sambit nito sa reaksyon niya. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Walanghiya! Siya pala ang pusa! Wala rin siyang nagawa noong pagdating nila sa event ay ito mismo ang nag-ayos sa braso niya pakapit sa braso nito. "Just stay beside me, Kitty. Smile as if you are head over heels for me," nakangising paalala nito. Sa dami ng mga bigating tao ay naging peke ang ngiti niya. Sa isang pabilog silang mesa napunta at naupo. Ramdam niya agad ang titig ng isang babae sa kanya na tila gusto siyang patumbahin. "Oh gosh, you got a new girl, Hector. I'm happy for you, Hijo. Hindi sana magloko katulad ng nauna," ani ng isang Ginang na bobo kay Sir Hector. Tumabingi ang ngiti niya habang ang babaeng nakatitig sa kanya ay umirap. Humilig pa ito sa braso ng lalaking katabi. "We should go home early, Babe. Bawal magpuyat ang buntis," dinig niyang bulong nito sa lalaki. Ramdam niya ang paninigas ng katawan ni Hector at kahit nakangiti ito sa mga kausap ay pansin naman niya ang panaka-nakang pag-igting ng panga nito. "Alejandro and I are having a baby boy, Mrs. Sarmiento," dinig niyang sagot ng babae matapos itong tanungin sa pinagbubuntis. Hindi na nga niya ito nilingon bagkus ay natutok ang titig niya kay Hector na naging sunod-sunod ang inom ng alak. Hindi siya nakatiis at inagaw ang brandy na hawak nito at ininom iyon. "What are you doing?" bulong na tanong nito. "Hindi ka pwedeng malasing. Magda-drive ka pa," madiing bulong niya pabalik. Lumapit ito at nagtaasan ang mga balahibo niya noong dumikit ang ilong nito sa leeg niya. "My Kitty is concern," namamaos nitong bulong kasabay pa ng pagdapo ng mainit nitong palad sa hita niya. Ginalaw niya ang hita ngunit dumiin ang kapit nito. Wala tuloy sa sariling napainom siya ng alak. "Crizaa, come back here!" Nabaling ang atensyon niya sa lalaking Alejandro yata ang pangalan. Tinatawag nito ang babaeng masama ang titig sa kanya na nag-walk out ngayon lang. Doon lang nawala sa hita niya ang palad ni Hector. Lumagok pa ito ng alak bago tumayo. "Comfort room," paalam nito pero ang titig ay nasa babaeng papalayo. Hindi niya alam kung bakit nadismaya siyang sinundan nito ang babae. Umiwas na lang siya ng tingin at tahimik na uminom. "Ngayon lang kita nakita, Hija. Gaano na kayo katagal ni Hector? Anim na buwan pa lang naman kasi silang hiwalay ni Crizaa," baling sa kanya ng Ginang kanina. Hilaw siyang napangiti, "Three months po," pagsisinungaling niya. Napatango ito. Mabuti na lang at hindi na ito nagtanong muli dahil hindi na niya alam ang isasagot. Nakuha niyang makaubos ng alak ay hindi na bumalik si Hector. Nahihilo na nga siya noong magpunta sa parking lot para doon ito hintayin. Saktong kapapadala niya ng mensahe sa kapitbahay niyang si Ria para tingnan ang kambal noong mamataan si Hector. Napatuwid siya ng tayo noong makita na itong papalapit. Halatang galit kaya hindi na siya nagtanong. Agad na lang siyang pumasok sa sasakyan noong patunugin nito. Maging sa biyahe ay ramdam niya ang galit nito sa hindi malamang dahilan. Madiin ang hawak nito sa manibela. Isa lang ang sigurado niya. Nakausap nito si Crizaa at tiyak na nabigo ito lalo't noong pagdating nila sa bahay nito ay kitang-kita niya ang bumagsak na luha sa gilid ng mga mata nito. Nahabag siya dito, "Sirโ" "Go home, or if you want, you can sleep in one of the guestrooms. Thank you for today, Lorelei," pagtataboy nito sa kanya. Hindi niya alam kung dahil lang sa kalasingan kaya hindi niya ito maiwan. Naaawa siya rito. Agad siyang kumuha ng tissue, lumuhod sa upuan at inabot ang pisngi nito. Pareho pa silang natigilan noong hawakan nito ang kamay niya. "Don't. I'm not weak," pamimilit nito. Naamoy niya ang brandy sa hininga nito at sa malamang ay pareho lang silang may tama ng alak. Napalunok siya noong matitigan ang mga mata nitong dumilim. Balewala niyang pinunasan muli ang pisngi nito ngunit muli nitong pinigilan ang kamay niya. "S-irโ" "If you keep doing that, sa kama tayo babagsak. Umuwi ka bago pa magbago ang isip ko at ipinid ka sa kama," pagbabanta nito. May choice siya, pinapatakas siya nito pero ang katawan niya ay ayaw kumilos. Baka dahil lasing siya. "Pagbilang ko ng lima, lumabas ka na ng sasakyan. I have no mercy when it comes to bed, Kitten," mabigat na bulong nito. Nanuyo ang lalamunan niya at mas lalong hindi nakakilos. "One," pagsisimula nito, nagsimula rin ang mainit nitong palad na umakyat sa hita niya. "Two, get out, Kitty," sobrang paos na sambit na nito habang ang kamay ay nahanap ang garter ng underwear niya. "P-ero, Sirโ" "Five. Pagmumura pa nito bago hatakin ang bewang niya at siilin siya ng halik. Mabilis nitong hinila ang bewang niya at pinaupo siya sa kandungan nito. Nahatak niya ang longsleeve nito matapos nitong ipasok ang dila sa bibig niya habang ang palad nito ay nahatak paalis ang underwear niya. Nahanap ng palad nito ang pagkababae niya at diniin ang daliri doon na kinasinghap niya. Hindi siya makasabay sa halik nito. Naliliyo siya maging sa paghagod ng mga daliri nito sa pagkababae niya. Nanigas ang mga tuhod niya sa kiliti sa puson niya at pamamasa. Hindi siya makahinga nang maayos. Inayos ng isang palad nito ang mga hita niya at pinwesto sa bawat gilid nito. Marahan itong dumukwang at halos isandal siya sa manibela masiil lang siya ng halik muli. Tuluyan na siyang hindi nakasagot ng halik matapos naging mabilis ang hagod ng mga daliri nito sa kanyang ibaba. Napapasinghap siya at ang maiksing katinuhan sa utak niya ay nasakop na ng impluwensya ng alak. "Ahh!" mahinang halinghing niya noong bumaba ang mga labi nito sa panga niya. "I'm giving you another chance to run. Run, Lorelei," udyok na bulong nito kahit pa binababa na nito ang zipper ng dress na suot niya. Napapikit siya. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya sa sobrang init. Bumakas sa mukha niya ang bahagyang ngiwi noong dumausdos papasok ang isang daliri nito. "Not running away? Baka di ka na makalakad bukas. I'm telling you, I'm big," paos at mabigat muli nitong bulong na tila nagtitimpi. Hindi niya alam ngunit lalo siyang namasa sa boses nito. Doon nga lang nag-sink sa kanya na kapag natuloy sila, malalaman nitong hindi na siya Birhen. Mabilis siyang napamulat sa naisip. Balak niya sana itong itulak ngunit paghigit sa damit nito ang nagawa niya noong dumagdag ang daliri nito sa loob niya at sunod-sunod na umulos. "Lintik" hingal niyang pagmumura. Paano pa siya tatakbo kung ang titig nito sa kanya ay nanlalapa? Maalab at alam niyang hindi na ito mapipigilan. Nagawa nitong alisin ang bestida niya. Nailiyad niya pa ang dibdib ngunit agad na sinakop ng mainit nitong bibig ang isa at halos ubusin nito. Nahatak niya ang braso nito upang doon kumuha ng balanse. hubad na siya lahat habang ito ay kumpleto pa ang suot. Pati ang relo sa bisig nito ay naroon pa. "Uhhhh, S-ir!" hiyaw niya noong lalong bumilis ang mga daliri nito sa loob niya. Hindi niya una iyon pero may hapdi pa rin sa kabila ng sensasyong nararamdaman niya. Bumalik tuloy ang alaala niya kung paano nabuo ang kambal niyang anak. Kagaya ni Sir Hector ang lalaki, may kalakihan ang katawan. Ang pinagkaiba lang ay may rahas ang kilos ni Sir Hector. Naitaas niya ang tuhod noong mamilipit sa sarap ang puson niya. Mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa bibig niya matapos maramdaman ang pag-abot niya sa rurok. Hindi tumigil ang mga daliri nito sa pag-ulos ngunit pinakawalan ng bibig nito ang dibdib niya. Naghahabol siya ng hininga noong nilayuan nito ang leeg niya at dibdib. Wala sa sariling nakagat niya pa ang ibabang labi sa paghugot nito sa mga daliri nito. Gulantang nga lang siyang makitang sisubo nito ang mga iyon. "Sir!" pigil niya dito ngunit wala na, napapikit na ito sa pagsubo no'n. Agad pang ngumisi at bahagyang pumasada ang dila sa ibabang labi nito na tila hindi pa ito kuntento. "Addictive," sobrang paos na sambit nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Alam niyang may tama rin ito sa alak kaya nasabi iyon pero hiyang-hiya siya! Hindi pa siya nakababawi noong marinig ang pagbukas nito sa pinto. Napalunok siya at napakapit sa mga balikat nito noong buhatin siya sa ganoong ayos. Inikot pa nito ang mga hita niya sa bewang nito. "You're Birhen. This will hurt. Hindi pwede sa sasakyan. Saka na... kapag sanay ka na," namimigat nitong bulong na nagpatigil sa paghinga niya. Kumalabog ang dibdib niya. Dumiin ang kapit sa balikat nito noong pumasok ito sa bahay at iakyat siya sa kwarto. Marahan pa siya nitong binagsak sa kama ngunit mabilis na lumuhod sa sahig. Sumisinghap pa lang siya ng paghinga ay pinag-hiwalay na nito ang mga hita niya at agad na sinubsob ang bibig nito sa pagkababae niya. "Sir! Uhโohh!" Pinatigas agad nito ang dila at tinukso-tukso siya. Alam na alam nito ang gagawin. Nawala na nga sa isip niyang hindi pa siya nakapag-shave pero kung hagurin ng dila nito ang ibaba niya ay tila paboritong pagkain nito iyon. "Ahh!" Nailiyad niya ang katawan at naitaas ang bewang na mabilis nitong hinila upang mas maidiin ang bibig nito doon. Ang ngipin nito ay sumasabay kaya halos mahila na niya nang buo ang bedsheet sa nararamdamang init. Pinagpawisan na siya kahit pa malakas ang aircon sa kwarto nito. Hindi yata ito tumigil hangga't hindi naririnig ang mahabang ungol niya, senyales na muli niyang naabot ang langit. Hindi niya maisara ang bibig sa pagsimot nito doon. Kahit noong tumayo na ito ay nanghihina siya at hindi maisara ang mga hita niya. Maliit niyang minulat ang mga mata. Huli niya ang mainit nitong titig sa katawan niya habang nagtatanggal ng kasuotan. Pati mamahaling relo nito ay basta lang nito tinapon sa sofa. Ora mimso noong mahubad nito ang mamahaling boxer short ay gumapang ito sa itaas niya. "Ibuka ang iyong mga binti nang mas malawak, Kitty," senswal nitong utos. Kumakalabog lalo ang dibdib niya at nanunuyo ang lalamunan kahit pa sa hita pa lang niya dumikit ang naghuhumigting nitong sandata. Palad na mismo nito ang humagod sa mga hita niya at mas pinaghiwalay ang mga iyon. Napapikit siya noong tuluyang tumama ang sandata nito sa kaselanan niya. Paulit-ulit na humagod na tila tinutukso siya. Pati ang ilong at bibig nito ay panaka-nakang humalik sa leeg at panga niya na tila dinidistract siya nito. "Sir~" hirap niyang bulong at napakapit sa matigas nitong braso noong maramdaman ang dulo ng sandata nito. Tama ito! Malaki ito at duda siyang kakasya sa kanya. Baka muli lang siyang mapunit nito! Ang balak niyang pagtulak sana dito ay nauwi sa pagkapit sa braso nito noong pilitin nito ang pagpasok. Sumigid ang sakit sa kanya at halos magdugo ang labi sa pagkagat niya. Iyon ang pangalawang beses niya pero sa tagal na siguro ng panahon ay pakiramdam niya, unang beses pa lang niya iyon. Kita niyang umigting ang panga nito at tumalim ang tingin. Kinabahan siyang baka nahuli na siya nito pero nahanap nito ang mga palad niya at parehong pininid sa itaas ng ulo niya. Pinagsalikop nito ang mga kamay nila bago sinagad ang pagpasok na kinahiyaw niya. "Ahh!" Hindi niya ito mapalo, hindi niya mabawi ang mga nakapinid na kamay. Pinuno naman nito ng halik ang mukha niya. "Soon, the pain will fade away, Kitty," panunuyong bulong nito. Hindi na niya makilala ang sariling paghinga. Hinayaan siya nitong kumalma ngunit hindi rin ito nakatiis at nagsimulang umulos nang mabagal. Dinidiinan na lang niya ang kapit sa mga kamay nito kapag sinasagad nito nang buo sa loob niya. Dinig niya ang magaspang nitong ungol at tila nahihirapan ding bumayo sa loob niya. Para itong nagtitimpi sa mabagal na paggalaw. "H-indi ka gumamit ng goma, Sir," wala sa sariling sambit niya. "Doesn't matter. I will do withdrawal, don't worry," pagpapakalma nito. Ilang beses siyang lumunok. Ang balakang niya ay napapataas noong bumilis nang bahagya ang galaw nito. Malinaw sa pandinig niya ang pagsusumpungan ng mga kaselanan nila. Nangangalay ang mga hita niya sa pagkakahiwalay at halos lumubog sa kama sa laki ng katawan nito. "Ow!" malakas niyang hiyaw na hindi niya alam kung ilang beses niya naisigaw noong dumoble ang bilis nito. Para itomg may hinahabol at hindi magkamayaw. Ang kama nito ay tumutunog kasabay ng tunog ng kanilang mga katawan. Para itong nawala sa sarili at nagsunod-sunod ang pagbayo sa loob niya. Naghalo ang pawis nila at maging mga ungol. Napuno ang kwarto ng mga hiyaw niya. Nanghihina na siya noong maramdamang malapit na siya. Nagmadali rin ito at sunod sunod ang ulos hanggang sa magkapanabay silang mapaungol. Pinakawalan nito ang mga kamay niya kasabay ng mainit na likidong bumuhos sa loob niya. Parang tumigil ang tibok ng puso niya. Sa loob nito pinutok! Kinabahan siya. Hinihingal itong bumagsak sa itaas niya. "Sleep, Kitty," inaantok pa nitong bulong. Nataranta siya at gusto itong itulak ngunit napakalaki nito. Sumiksik pa ito sa dibdib niya at wala yatang pakialam kahit nasa loob pa niya ang sandata nito! "Sir, uuwi po ako," pilit niyang gising at tulak dito ngunit humigpit ang yakap nito sa bewang niya. "Later, stay still. Huwag kang gagalaw. Huwag mong gisingin," halos bulong na lang na sambit nito. Nanlamig siya sa tinutukoy nito. Pati tuloy paghinga niya ay napigilan niya huwag lang magising ang sandata nito. Para siyang timang na naghintay na humiwalay ito ngunit hindi niya rin namalayang nakatulog na siya. Paggising ay sikat ng araw ang tumama sa mga mata niya. Nasilaw siya at nahirapang magmulat ng mga mata. Masakit ang katawan niya, partikular ang pagkababae niya at mga hita. Doon nga lang din rumehistro sa kanya ang nangyari kagabi. "Punyeta!" napamura siya matapos matantong umaga na pero naroon pa rin siya sa kwarto ni Sir Hector. Mabilis niyang nilingon ang katabi ngunit wala na ito doon. Hindi na nga niya maalala kung ano'ng oras ito umalis sa itaas niya. Hihinga na sana siya nang maluwag kung hindi lang naramdaman ang madiing titig sa kanya na tumatagos sa balat niya. Napalunok siya at unti-unting napatingin sa harap niya. Sumikdo ang dibdib niya at nahila ang kumot. Naroon sa paanan niya si Sir Hector, nakaayos na ng business suit, nakapamulsa habang may hawak na baso ng brandy. Pinaghalong madiin at malamig na titig ang natanggap niya dito at noong liningon nito ang kama na walang bahid ng dugo, alam na niya agad ang nasa isip nito. "S-ir, m-agpapaliwanag po ako," sobrang kabang sambit niya lalo't tumalim ang titig nito at umigting ang panga. | Philip Spicy Reading | 83301 | https://www.facebook.com/61561349855790/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679674 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567635 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | VIDEO | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/69002322-fb_contact-ena295_2-0131-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=7929461117168105&exdata=B7502C52902DDDD9055E59D57BD46F5BE34927C5EDDBE80D | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475877220_638150885320919_5989523964453371869_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xFg3JABYTjMQ7kNvgFyycRT&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYAls1A7b8hiWKcI2Sk8bEqBOYypmYD-EfIL4_XaBmzf5w&oe=67A63B7C | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Her fiancรฉ cheated with her stepsister but still wanted to marry her. With a mocking smile, she called off the engagement. When the sc*mbag cornered her at her door, the elite tycoon appeared behind her--wrapped in nothing but a towel... ===== "Are you seeing someone? Spend a night with me, and I'll forget about the damage to my car," Charlee Sullivan suggested boldly. Charlee leaned casually against a gleaming crimson sports car, her fitted scarlet dress emphasizing her striking silhouette. Her delicate face, framed by soft waves of auburn hair, radiated sophistication. Her usually vibrant eyes now carried an icy detachment. She wasn't one to forgive easily; after discovering that Liam Todd, her fiance, dared to cheat on her, she craved a way to retaliate. The man, crouched over his battered motorcycle, straightened up at her words. Under the streetlight's glow, his rugged, undeniably magnetic features radiated an air of untamed charisma. "I'm single," he replied, his deep baritone carrying an irresistible allure. Charlee smirked, leaning in slightly. Her curls tumbled forward, dusted with vibrant remnants of party streamers. And this man--his sharp jawline, commanding presence, and effortless charm--was everything Liam wasn't. Liam, she mused, paled in comparison to this stranger, who seemed more than capable of meeting her every desire. "So did you agree?" The man's gaze flitted between the dented luxury vehicle and his wrecked motorcycle, a flicker of amusement in his expression. Her prized car, he thought, wasn't even worth the cost of his bike's handlebars. With a sly grin, he pulled her into his embrace, his tone teasing but firm. "Deal. I can't pay for your car repairs anyway. But don't complain later, little firecracker." With that, he swept her off her feet, carrying her with ease toward a nearby h*tel... When he said a whole night, he wasn't exaggerating. Charlee lost track of the moments she blacked out. Hours later, as she slipped back into her outfit, she couldn't summon the courage to meet his gaze. Her hoarse voice trembled with a warning as she said, "I have the crash footage. The moment I step out, we're nothing to each other. Stay silent." From behind her, his voice dripped with amusement, lazy yet sharp. "Interesting. I've kept a copy of that clip, too." Not catching his implication, Charlee grabbed her belongings and headed for the exit. Her shaky legs almost betrayed her, threatening to collapse beneath her. His deep chuckle echoed. "Sure you don't need more time to recover?" What a smug b**tard! She slammed the door behind her with every ounce of strength, nearly tempted to hit him with it. She missed the possessive glint in his eyes as he watched her leave. In the hotel lobby, the glowing screen of a television displayed breaking headlines. "A shocking revelation today--two elite families in Jurgh, set to unite through marriage, have faced public embarrassment. Sources claim the Todd heir stormed out of the ceremony, leaving the Sullivan heiress humiliated." A bystander muttered, "Rumor has it the groom's quite fond of his fiancee's half-sister. Now that her parents have rekindled their relationship, who knows? Maybe he'll end up with the other sibling." On the screen, Charlee appeared in a crimson gown, her hair dotted with celebratory confetti. The camera lingered on her frozen smile, magnifying the heartbreak behind it. Surprisingly, after her intense encounter, Charlee realized the pain from the breakup wasn't as sharp anymore. She had clung too tightly to Liam, convinced their years-long relationship was indestructible. She had let him take her affection for granted. But he was never irreplaceable. Someone else had managed to fill the void effortlessly. The stranger from last night, for instance, who possessed boundless endurance. Chapter 2 Obsession Charlee said, "Hello. I'd like to check out." Distracted by a heated debate over the latest news on TV, the receptionists glanced up from their conversation. Their eyes widened as they recognized the woman from the video, forcing a slightly awkward smile. One receptionist looked back at the screen and then at Charlee, clearly captivated by the latter's striking appearance. Her eyes flicked briefly to Charlee's neck as she processed the latter's check-out. As Charlee drove home, she reflected on the curious glances she received from the receptionists. Curious, she pulled out a mirror. The hi*keys on her neck were hard to miss. She reached for her foundation, carefully covering the marks. Most of them were still visible, though. That man's stamina was truly remarkable. Their meeting had begun with a car accident and quickly turned into a night of carefree fun. The memory brought a soft laugh to her lips. Thirty minutes later, she steered her sports car into the driveway of the Sullivans' grand villa. At the same moment, a black Cayenne rolled in beside her. As the car door swung open, Liam gently assisted Stacey Sullivan out, treating her with utmost care. His gaze turned cold when he spotted Charlee. "Keep your troubles away from Stacey. We'll talk later." His composed manner brought back memories of him setting boundaries, like prohibiting her from eating ice cream during her periods or wearing skirts to school. There was a time she almost adored this aspect of Liam. Now, it only disgusted her. Facing him, she said, "This is good timing. I'm calling off our engagement." Under the sunlight, she rose elegantly, her perfect skin radiating, her beautiful face emitting a captivating charm. Liam was caught off guard and then noticed the marks on her neck; his eyes filled with anger immediately. Releasing Stacey's arm, he strode toward Charlee and seized her wrist with a grip that almost broke it. "Where were you last night? Who is responsible for this?" He resembled a husband who felt deceived. Oh, the irony. "Let go," Charlee said, her eyes cold. "All this time, I've treated you well, yet you've acted shamelessly. To think you'd let another man's l*ps on your neck!" Liam refused to believe Charlee could betray him like this. He was convinced she'd asked someone to make those marks just to agitate him. Trapped in his grasp, Charlee flashed a mischievous smile. "Oh, it wasn't just my neck. His k*sses covered me completely." Realizing Charlee had seen the video, Liam's hold inadvertently weakened. "There's a reason for this. Please, don't let this hurt Stacey." He was aware of the video then. He certainly knew how to keep the excitement alive in the b*droom. Charlee could no longer hold back her frustration and sl*pped him. "Charlee, what's going on?" Stacey cried out as she dashed forward, encircling Charlee's waist with her arms and forcibly pulling the latter back. "Liam means the world to me, blame me if you must. He treats you so well. How could you sl*p him?" Stacey's tearful plea was followed by a low, sinister chuckle. Stacey whispered, "So, what is it like to be left alone at your own engagement? I merely scratched my wrist, and Liam couldn't stop comforting me." A cold dread crept over Charlee, feeling like she was trapped by a venomous snake, urging her to shove Stacey away. The moment she touched Stacey's arm, Stacey screamed and tumbled to the ground, her wrist bl**ding through the bandage. "Charlee!" Liam, seething with anger, rushed to Stacey's aid. "You owe Stacey an apology, now!" "Don't be so harsh, Liam," Stacey said softly, holding onto Liam's hand as he pointed at Charlee, her voice tender yet pitiful. "This is on me; I shouldn't have let my feelings for you go so far. She's supposed to be your bride. It's natural for Charlee to be upset. I accept whatever comes." Her act of pity managed to melt Liam's heart. "Please, don't cry, Stacey," he said. Chapter 3 Totally Disappointed Charlee's gaze lingered on Liam and Stacey's display of affection, her tone biting as she sneered, "You do realize this is on you, right?" Liam's eyes darkened with fury, cutting toward her like a bl*de. "You've crossed a line, Charlee. Stacey is your sister. She almost died, and you still feel the need to antagonize her?" "Sister?" Charlee's laugh was as icy as her stare. "You mean the one who s*duced her sister's fiance?" "You..." Liam's anger simmered as he steadied Stacey, leading her toward the Sullivan estate. As they neared Charlee, he turned sharply and barked, "Wait for me at the door." He spoke with the authority of someone who expected to be obeyed, confident in her usual compliance. But instead, Charlee strode past him without a second glance, her red dress flowing behind her. With her sleek black heels clicking against the pavement and her crimson lips curved in disdain, she exuded an untamed elegance, like a predator that couldn't be tamed. "This is my house," she said coolly, throwing the words over her shoulder. "You don't get to dictate what I do." Liam froze, startled by her defiance, his eyes glued to her retreating figure. Something about her felt different--unfamiliar. "Liam..." Stacey's soft, delicate voice rang out beside him, pulling him back to reality. His voice grew gentler. "That's just her way. Don't mind her. I'll handle it later and make sure she doesn't trouble you again. Let's get you back to rest." Stacey's eyes welled up as she gripped his arm tightly, unwilling to let go. "You said you'd stay with me, Liam," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. Her plea struck a chord deep within him. He replied softly, "Of course, I will. You did all that because you cared so much for me. I'll stay by your side until you're well again." Meanwhile, Charlee went upstairs, took a long shower, and changed before coming back to see Liam and Stacey finally entering the house together. Standing on the balcony, she nearly choked at the sight of them embracing, their affection on full display near the doorway. "Had enough of that yet?" she asked dryly, lounging on the sleek leather sofa, her legs elegantly crossed, exuding the air of a prowling feline. Suddenly, a sharp voice rang out from above. "What's your problem, Charlee? You're becoming impossible!" Her father, Keith Sullivan's stern expression darkened as he descended the stairs, trailed by Hannah Sullivan, his former wife. Hannah had settled in here, officially taking the title of Mrs. Sullivan in the eyes of others. Though dressed to impress, her harsh and hostile demeanor was impossible to miss. To Charlee, it was clear as day that, like Stacey, she was utterly hypocritical. Charlee didn't bother with an argument. Instead, she pulled out her phone, tapped a few times, and projected footage from the security camera onto the massive living room TV. The screen revealed Stacey and Liam locked in an intimate e*brace, their l*ps pressed together with a level of closeness that left nothing to the imagination. "Why would you do this, Charlee?" Stacey wailed, covering her face as though humiliated, then dashed upstairs, her sobs echoing through the halls. Anyone unaware of the full story might think Charlee had wronged her instead of exposing her. "Stacey, don't do anything reckless!" Hannah shouted, quickly following after her in a show of concern, making sure everyone remembered that Stacey was delicate and must not be upset. As expected, Keith lost his temper and stormed over to yank the TV's plug from the wall. "Charlee, are you determined to destroy this household?" Keith barked furiously. "Perhaps you should be asking Stacey that question," Charlee retorted, her disappointment cutting through her cold tone. She fixed him with an unyielding stare--one filled with bitterness, entirely void of warmth. Since losing her mother, she had come to understand just how fragile family bonds could be. For sixteen years, her mother had sacrificed everything to stand by Keith's side. Yet within a week of her passing, he had welcomed Hannah and Stacey into their home. How could he be so cruel? Chapter 4 Her Cruel Father Charlee's accusations deepened the anger etched on Keith's face. In a sharp tone, he said, "Stacey is your sister, and this is her home, too. She's bottled up her emotions, staying out of your way when it comes to Liam. She's reached a point of despair so profound it drove her to attempt to end her life. Yet, here you are, devoid of compassion and consumed by hostility. How can you be so unfeeling?" Liam, having shaken off the earlier awkwardness, finally spoke. "Mr. Sullivan, perhaps you should check on Stacey. I'll handle things with Charlee." Even now, Liam shielded Charlee, seemingly treating her with the same patience and indulgence as always. But his actions felt like repeated blows, each one more painful than the last. Charlee rose to her feet, her gaze icy and expression unreadable. "There's nothing left to discuss. The engagement is over." Liam countered, "Charlee, we've been together for years, and you've refused to get closer to me. I'm only human--I have needs too." His justification was absurd. Agreeing to share intimacy only after their engagement had somehow morphed into his excuse for betrayal. "So this is why you turned to Stacey?" A moment of silence followed. She couldn't help but let out a cold laugh. "If you're shameless enough to do this, at least have the decency to announce your plans to marry her. Stop skulking around like a coward. You're pathetic." Turning to leave, she felt Liam seize her wrist. "Are you insane?" He couldn't believe she had just called him a coward. She had never belittled him like this before. Charlee exhaled slowly before driving her foot into his shin. His pained cry echoed as she wrenched her hand free. "Try me, and you'll regret it," she warned, voice steady but threatening. At eighteen, Charlee had survived a harrowing kidnapping and near-r*pe attempt. The trauma had driven her to secretly train in kickboxing for four years. After winning a local championship, she had once jokingly told Liam she'd protect him as his personal bodyguard. Who would have thought he'd one day be the recipient of those skills? The irony was overwhelming. "You br*t! Get back here!" Keith stormed into the room, catching the tail end of their argument, his voice booming with fury. But Charlee didn't falter. She walked away with poise, not sparing him a glance. Now that the pretense was shattered, she was ready to move forward with her long-delayed plans. Liam clenched his jaw, suppressing the pain, waiting before attempting to stand. Keith waited for him to recover and then spoke. "Liam, I've indulged Charlee too much. About the marriage..." His meaning was unmistakable. He wanted to cancel the marriage arrangement between Charlee and Liam. Without the Todd family, Charlee would become obedient. And if he married Stacey to Liam, the Todd family would be his aide completely. Liam's frustration was evident. "Delay it. Stacey's health is fragile. Once she's better, I'll marry Charlee." Though Charlee had ended things, Liam didn't take her words seriously. At sixteen, she had hit rock bottom, relying entirely on him to pull her through. Her years of unwavering devotion were proof enough that she'd never truly leave him. โฆโฆ In the Sullivan Group's project department, Charlee sat in her office, focused on compiling reports. Keith hadn't stripped her of authority due to the family's partnership with the Todds. But now that she had called off the engagement, she needed to secure her position. At three in the afternoon, her assistant, Alexia Jenkins, burst into the office, knocking hastily before stepping inside, her face visibly drained of color. Trailing behind her, Stacey entered clad in a tailored light-gray suit, radiating an air of confidence and control. The meekness she displayed in front of Liam had vanished, replaced by an unrestrained sense of triumph. "Charlee, the board has voted to relieve you of your duties as project director. Starting today, I'll be stepping in to take over. All incomplete projects under your supervision will now fall to me. As for your reassignment..." Stacey's lips curled into a mocking smile as she tossed a blue folder onto the desk. "The newly established Green Biopharmaceuticals in the eastern suburbs needs someone to manage it. The tech is fully patented, and the production lines run seamlessly--your job will just be signing papers and killing time. See? Dad hasn't forgotten about you entirely." Chapter 5 Green Biopharmaceuticals The Sullivan Group owned four branches, and Green Biopharmaceuticals was the least promising of them all. Despite its grandiose name, it was nothing more than a basic contract manufacturing facility. Devoid of innovation or proprietary patents, it functioned solely as a production line, lacking any semblance of independence. Still, this company marked the genesis of the Sullivan Group's wealth, the hard-won achievement of Charlee's mother during her initial ventures into the industry. Charlee tapped her finger lightly on the document. "I'm the project director. Do you really think you can demote me to manage some rundown company? Dream on." Stacey remained composed, as though she had expected Charlee's resistance. "Dad said if you're unwilling to leave, you can stay in the project department, but under me as your supervisor. You'll have to take my orders." Charlee let out a sharp, derisive laugh. Her disdain was written all over her elegant face. "Mr. Sullivan knows you're useless, so he's forcing me to stay and clean up after you. How pathetic." The office door stood wide open, intentionally so. Stacey had planned for the entire project team to witness Charlee's humiliation. Yet, the plan backfired. With an air of confidence, Stacey squared her shoulders and lifted her chin. "I was appointed as director by the board. It was a unanimous decision. At the year-end meeting, I'll lead this team in collecting our accolades. Just wait." Charlee clicked her tongue dismissively. "Stop puffing yourself up." Without another word, she made a call and put it on speaker. After a few rings, Keith answered, his authoritative tone filling the room. "With the tension between you and Liam, I have to make a decision. Sign the papers and head to the company. Don't stir up trouble. I have a strategy in mind." His tone was firm yet sounded almost considerate. Charlee's lips curled into a mocking smile. "Mr. Sullivan, I own eight percent of the shares. Don't I qualify as a stakeholder?" Keith was silent for a moment before replying begrudgingly, "If two-thirds of the shareholders agree, it's out of your hands." His message was clear... Charlee's voice didn't matter. Charlee arched an eyebrow and glanced at Stacey with a smirk. "Unanimous, you said?" Stacey flushed crimson, while whispers spread among the onlookers outside the office. Stacey's credibility was already in tatters before she even assumed her new role. Before Stacey could recover and respond, Charlee's tone turned icy. "I want ownership of the pharmaceutical plant. Draft a revised agreement and send it to me. Then I'll sign and step aside. Otherwise... I don't mind dragging us all down." Before Keith could protest, Charlee hung up. She understood Stacey's ambitions all too well, but after three years as project director, Charlee wasn't about to surrender without a fight. Besides, she was never a pushover. Keith couldn't afford to gamble with everything at stake. Thirty minutes later, the company transfer papers were delivered to her desk. Charlee reviewed them meticulously before signing without hesitation. As she prepared to leave, Stacey, now firmly seated in the director's chair, issued orders. "Other than personal belongings, you're not to take a single thing from this office. Alexia, check her items." Alexia, who owed her position to Charlee, hesitated. Her contract, however, was with the Sullivan Group. Sparing her the dilemma, Charlee opened her own bag and box. She turned to Stacey, holding up a small jewelry case, her strikingly clear eyes fixed on her rival. "These are the ring and bracelet Liam had custom-made for me. One of a kind. Want them?" Seeing Stacey's enraged expression, Charlee tossed the jewelry box into the trash with a casual motion and dusted off her hands. "Getting rid of j*nk feels amazing." As she exited, the sound of shattering cups erupted behind her. Charlee smiled to herself. Was Stacey already cracking? She'd need to hold out until those projects were under her control. That was when the real battle would begin. Charlee had underestimated Stacey's and Keith's pettiness. When she attempted to drive away, security halted her vehicle, asserting it was property of the Sullivan Group. Now acting as director of the pharmaceutical company, Charlee had lost her privilege to use this car since the company's split from the Sullivan Group. Exiting her sports car, she slipped on her sunglasses and glanced toward her office building. Despite the distance, she could distinctly make out Stacey on the floor of her office, gracefully enjoying a cup of coffee. In a daring move, Charlee gave Stacey the finger, then turned on her heel and walked off with her belongings to hail a nearby taxi. As she waited, a sleek black Maybach rolled to a stop before her. The door swung open automatically, revealing a man lounging comfortably, an amused expression playing across his refined features. "What a coincidence." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679666 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567633 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=7929461117168105&exdata=167C26038CE9418313E583BD9FAA47B335962CA4B2BDF032 | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475523654_1480519479998894_2429903308209683245_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wYSVadRBNAQQ7kNvgHc5q2T&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYB3omGbGDysUO0KBl5YR4Wfz7h1R1Ox0a68e2UhrhD--Q&oe=67A6264C | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | After being released, her malicious stepsister threatened her with their mother's life and tried to send her to an older man. On her way to "sacrifice" herself, she unexpectedly met a mafia kingpin. She took the initiative to seduce him for a partnership. From then on, she turned the tablesโtearing apart the fake angel, slapping her stepmother, and refusing to be bullied again! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &10& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679657 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/7/25, 10:15 PM | 1738567632 | 1749352511 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Instant Quote! Fill Out Form | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475027862_976610124391623_2314166892718261609_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Do8Q1R3gKPoQ7kNvgEgCA84&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYBjkCKoeDOEUSBxYL85HeUa_9AdCtIktg2YNQ4lxIS_yA&oe=67A6374B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679654 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/8/25, 2:59 AM | 1738567632 | 1749369542 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Instant Quote! Fill Out Form | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475027862_976610124391623_2314166892718261609_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Do8Q1R3gKPoQ7kNvgEgCA84&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYBjkCKoeDOEUSBxYL85HeUa_9AdCtIktg2YNQ4lxIS_yA&oe=67A6374B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679652 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 4:25 AM | 1738567632 | 1749115512 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Instant Quote! Fill Out Form | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475027862_976610124391623_2314166892718261609_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Do8Q1R3gKPoQ7kNvgEgCA84&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYBjkCKoeDOEUSBxYL85HeUa_9AdCtIktg2YNQ4lxIS_yA&oe=67A6374B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679746 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567645 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Quote: Starting at $59 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474060166_1330236698109906_7085573860794928411_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wn24fOUoqqgQ7kNvgGpahnX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYAJbj_EhlWJrblONvgocYbCJuNkjBKKt5b0UpuwAH9ovQ&oe=67A652FF | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679745 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567645 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Quote: Starting at $59 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474060166_1330236698109906_7085573860794928411_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wn24fOUoqqgQ7kNvgGpahnX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYAJbj_EhlWJrblONvgocYbCJuNkjBKKt5b0UpuwAH9ovQ&oe=67A652FF | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679785 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567647 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Quote | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474004431_1123900689463010_9215037287897539197_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=s6ZteLLw6u0Q7kNvgFFTXgd&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYAUwHiogGOyDSGtaxdCWW5jEs5SHW6efyvfZCbicwhlSg&oe=67A64CA3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679786 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567647 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Get Your Quote | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474004431_1123900689463010_9215037287897539197_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=s6ZteLLw6u0Q7kNvgFFTXgd&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYAUwHiogGOyDSGtaxdCWW5jEs5SHW6efyvfZCbicwhlSg&oe=67A64CA3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679744 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567645 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get Quote | CAROUSEL | Free Quote: Starting at $59 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474060166_1330236698109906_7085573860794928411_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wn24fOUoqqgQ7kNvgGpahnX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYAJbj_EhlWJrblONvgocYbCJuNkjBKKt5b0UpuwAH9ovQ&oe=67A652FF | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679748 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 10:23 AM | 1738567645 | 1749137010 | 2451 | Get quote | VIDEO | Concrete Driveways: Starting at $1499 | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474007093_1684624259124851_7129423540288630731_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I-MQADIm0NMQ7kNvgEUl3an&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYCCo8LZXveGtnQ_IfdiC13KKTJIBLcj4C4eLxM2rZ0XDw&oe=67A63579 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hey there, I'm Richard, owner of Allenโs Concrete Driveways! The cost of concrete is currently low. We donโt know how long this will last but we will pass massive savings on to you! Get your new Concrete Driveway installed for as low as $1499. Just fill out the form to get a Quote! ๐ก Proudly local, we're passionate about enhancing the beauty & value of our community's homes. Serving Rock Hill, Charlotte, Gastonia, Huntersville, Indian Trail & surrounding areas! Get Your Free Quote! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679787 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567647 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | VIDEO | Move In/Move Out Cleaning: Starting at $99 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473758255_2056602741445097_8030962555339146325_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tTyhlbADivcQ7kNvgHoVwZ6&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYAPLGzz9XUAY1PyDxPmpgSUFovtreYZkh3DysUMQ_40qw&oe=67A63E28 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi, Iโm Juan, proud owner of Olympic Dependable Cleaning! Where we specialize in move-in and move-out cleaning, leaving your old place spotless and your new home sparkling. ๐งผโจ Our service provides you withโฆ ๐งผ Deep Cleaning for Every Room โ Kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and more. ๐ฐ Rental Deposit Guarantee โ Maximize your chances of getting your deposit back. โป๏ธ Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products โ Safe for your family and pets. ๐๏ธ Flexible Scheduling โ We work around your move. ๐ธ Affordable Pricing โ Professional results starting at $99. ๐ช Let us handle the mess so you can focus on settling into your new space. ๐ Get in touch & receive your free quote. Just fill out our form! ๐Servicing Bohemia, Hempstead, Levittown, Freeport, West Babylon & Surrounding Areas | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679793 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567647 | 1745816686 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | VIDEO | Save $2000: Bathroom Remodeling | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473814440_543782832035455_8807250117669101392_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sSP8U3tSGwsQ7kNvgFtD1zr&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYCIhEuwilHz5MaGRhi0HAsArpJrJhVpzbFUKOQrTv3BcA&oe=67A62797 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi, I'm Ryan, founder of Suffolk Bathroom Remodeling! Let us Transform Your Bathroom into a Personal Oasis ๐ง! The bathroom is not just a functional space; it's your private retreat ๐, a place to unwind, refresh, & start/end your day in comfort & style ๐. We work with you to design a custom vision: ๐ธ Custom Vanities & Countertops ๐ธ Modern Fixtures & Luxury Showers ๐ธ Elegant Flooring & Lighting ๐ธ And so much more! ๐ฅฐ For years, weโve operated locally & believe in the magic of a beautifully designed bathroom. That's why we're offering ๐ธ SAVINGS UP TO $2000 ๐ธ on your next project! Contact us to book your free in-home estimate & allow us to earn your business! ๐ Proudly Serving Huntington, East Northport, Greenlawn, Old Westbury, Halesite & Nearby Areas! ๐ | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679797 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 6:08 AM | 1738567647 | 1749121724 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | VIDEO | Plumbing Repairs: Starting at $59 | Locally Owned | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473789751_898043995866001_8093616877895268219_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AlO4ZAQck5YQ7kNvgGr5OND&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYARH1efcog2RkooMwXGDRwM0v3eQFgrcuTUg3xXKirnvQ&oe=67A6379E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi there, I'm James, owner of JW Plumbing! Do you really want to mess with your plumbing? No! leave it to the professionals. ๐จโ๐ง ๐ฏ Contact us ASAP if you have the following: โ ๏ธ Water Stains/Damage ๐คฎ Foul Odors Near Drains ๐จUnusual Noises in Pipes ๐ช Slow Draining or Clogs ๐ As a local business with over 15 years in the community, we're dedicated to ensuring everything flows smoothly for our neighbors. That's why we're offering plumbing services starting as low as $59! ๐ฐ๐ค Contact us to get your free quote! ๐ Proudly Serving Capitol Heights, Washington, Arlington, Alexandria, Columbia & nearby areas. | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679543 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/13/25, 8:52 PM | 1738567622 | 1749865937 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465761946_528775476733682_7495565606413333884_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FSEU2Daz7rEQ7kNvgHhX86x&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYCWSjJjS6kB42xbfNUryN6VzhFQyadE14ONa7ZPIIIDDQ&oe=67A65214 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679559 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/11/25, 6:08 AM | 1738567627 | 1749640092 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465732433_441280038991855_3626046330843192868_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9EfANoOhEWkQ7kNvgHmNqRa&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYC35R2dXVcD7ztgr3zAGobOQsOdNiCZ0hzcuj-1OjVsFg&oe=67A6524A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679561 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/11/25, 7:08 PM | 1738567627 | 1749686932 | 2451 | nordastro.com | Learn more | VIDEO | Get Yours at 50% OFF + Free Shipping | https://nordastro.com/start?qz=na1&locale=EN_US | 3.8747147444381E+14 | Nordastro | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/466850071_1688352878399450_3402546618467103035_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ERAyEy1TuNYQ7kNvgGD3JEG&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYD6vUQIAOVvPdJfEqdh-4YgPLFCV9eLw6V8VXsR5pMG_Q&oe=67A6527A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | The world's first 100% personalized ASTROLOGY BOOK for your self-growth & better relationships. โจCustom design with your name & birth chart on the cover โจPersonalized birth chart analysis โจLove & relationship insights โจPersonality & life path profile โจCareer & success guidance Take a 3-minute QUIZ to create your personalized Nordastro book! | Nordastro | 11599 | https://www.facebook.com/61562597241042/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679569 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 5/27/25, 8:46 AM | 1738567627 | 1748353589 | 2451 | pro.viture.com | Learn more | IMAGE | Use Code VITURE10 For 10% OFF | Making the parallel possible... | https://pro.viture.com/ | 1.0015258586119E+14 | VITURE | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473590758_1259678228463168_8966238829817847395_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VNHR8XDHm48Q7kNvgGn9LI3&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYAEeIJ2H--V2Uro6r9UxDz8I3VDO73fRP9LJe7A7M58Lw&oe=67A65907 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Experience the future of entertainment with VITURE Pro XR Glasses! ๐ถ๏ธ Featuring a 135โ UltraClarityโข display with 120Hz refresh rates, these glasses transform your gaming, streaming, and productivity into a fully immersive experience on virtually any device. ๐ฎ ๐บ ๐ And built with premium materials and enhanced privacy features, VITURE Pro XR Glasses are designed for comfort, durability, and uninterrupted focus anywhere you go! ๐ Get yours now with our 30-day risk-free return policy โ use code "VITURE10" for 10% off, enjoy free express shipping, and even split your total into four easy payments! | VITURE | 11423 | https://www.facebook.com/getviture/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679581 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/12/25, 11:18 PM | 1738567628 | 1749788299 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465476846_1266192841184387_1365108270810245231_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M6M5XEBJsUYQ7kNvgHwJgrs&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhvCg_DRxLxyO9n49mbzrUN&oh=00_AYBRhjZdQBAXs3Ghx7oSGSXbb1Ea_WBv0q3pTMPtisfNcw&oe=67A64AB4 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679659 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/4/25, 10:42 PM | 1738567632 | 1749094948 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | IMAGE | Paint Transformations starting at $249 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474625865_1899836260549045_1759200575835837937_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8FpXL7iFDzcQ7kNvgFxnCXE&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYCpEjJvweislq9X_h-wEzIHtvcXb0_UEYibLkguz4aemA&oe=67A644DD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi, I'm Tom, founder of locally owned, Wheel of color Painting. โ Everyone always asks me, "How much would it cost to paint my home?" WellโฆEach project is unique! ๐ After you answer a few simple questions about your property, we'll provide a FREE, INSTANT quote. ๐ Click 'GET QUOTE' below! ๐ We're locally owned & dedicated to our community, which is why we're offering paint transformations starting at $249! Proudly serving Boulder, Longmont, Broomfield, Lafayette, Erie & Surrounding Areas! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679710 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 4/28/25, 12:04 AM | 1738567639 | 1745816686 | 2451 | yourwebsite.com | Get quote | IMAGE | Reliable Moving: Save up to $200 | https://yourwebsite.com/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474803779_1333526617855498_2097940193146578890_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-pTSwQMH54Q7kNvgEAYIy6&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYBdQXRMdVVQr0_1p1aaRQcWKHRtxAm8tsGILuk_-oDn7A&oe=67A64C73 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi, Iโm Brandon, owner of Brandon's Moving Company. Moving soon? ๐ก๐ฆ Donโt risk the breaks, scuffs and bangs ๐ฉ! Leave it to the professionals and save yourself the stress! ๐งโโ๏ธ Iโve been in the moving industry for over 20 years now, and have seen and conquered every tight corner, awkward couch shape and delicate collection of plates you could think of. For a limited time Iโd like to offer you a ๐ธ $200 Discount๐ธ on your move! โ๏ธ๐ฆ Just fill out our form, call, or text for a free quote! ๐Proudly Serving Mansfield, Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Irving & Surrounding Areas!๐ | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679565 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/14/25, 4:32 AM | 1738567627 | 1749893542 | 2451 | fb.me | Learn more | IMAGE | Need a Change? Try 3 Classes, $3! | http://fb.me/ | 2.1088721526848E+15 | F45 Training Hinsdale | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473441461_3364347633696761_702637993296159274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2QRFlMMj6rwQ7kNvgE_wsbG&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYBd4OvYkb_pctQYRC7Oz3754i5nViqF76cuA6l1W9WnuA&oe=67A641A3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Hinsdale & Western Springs: Time for a Change? ๐ช Feeling stuck in a fitness rut? At F45, weโre here to help you break free with fast, fun, and results-driven workouts that leave you feeling stronger, energized, and ready to conquer your day. ๐ฅ Start now with 3 classes for just $3! But hurry, this limited-time offer ends soon. Hereโs whatโs waiting for you at F45: ๐ฅ 45 Minutes, Big Impact: Quick, fat-burning workouts that fit your busy life. ๐ฏ Guided Coaching, Real Results: Coaches whoโve got your back, so you can focus on showing up. ๐ Exciting, Fresh Workouts: No boring routinesโevery day brings something new. ๐ค A Community That Inspires: Train alongside supportive teammates who keep you motivated. โณ Act fastโspots are filling up, and youโll need to complete your 3 classes within 7 days of starting! ๐ Click โLearn Moreโ to grab your 3 classes for $3 and get ready to feel your best. | F45 Training Hinsdale | 845 | https://www.facebook.com/F45Hinsdale/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679677 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/14/25, 5:18 AM | 1738567635 | 1749896281 | 2451 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | IMAGE | Read next chapter | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/69002322-fb_contact-ena295_2-0131-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=157725&accid=7929461117168105&exdata=B7502C52902DDDD979F65FA86A893C4A2805D666888DBDD8 | 3.7558525564194E+14 | Fun Novels | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475387605_575604485307556_7443337153874431754_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=e2zn432kSQgQ7kNvgE1Ccig&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AhUOggNEOWtgRi1D-dTdaSJ&oh=00_AYCxrRDQoL3bBVihgjhlgtM7Ys8p4wIlpL_Aq_K0NgJAtA&oe=67A65588 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Her fiancรฉ cheated with her stepsister but still wanted to marry her. With a mocking smile, she called off the engagement. When the sc*mbag cornered her at her door, the elite tycoon appeared behind her--wrapped in nothing but a towel... ===== "Are you seeing someone? Spend a night with me, and I'll forget about the damage to my car," Charlee Sullivan suggested boldly. Charlee leaned casually against a gleaming crimson sports car, her fitted scarlet dress emphasizing her striking silhouette. Her delicate face, framed by soft waves of auburn hair, radiated sophistication. Her usually vibrant eyes now carried an icy detachment. She wasn't one to forgive easily; after discovering that Liam Todd, her fiance, dared to cheat on her, she craved a way to retaliate. The man, crouched over his battered motorcycle, straightened up at her words. Under the streetlight's glow, his rugged, undeniably magnetic features radiated an air of untamed charisma. "I'm single," he replied, his deep baritone carrying an irresistible allure. Charlee smirked, leaning in slightly. Her curls tumbled forward, dusted with vibrant remnants of party streamers. And this man--his sharp jawline, commanding presence, and effortless charm--was everything Liam wasn't. Liam, she mused, paled in comparison to this stranger, who seemed more than capable of meeting her every desire. "So did you agree?" The man's gaze flitted between the dented luxury vehicle and his wrecked motorcycle, a flicker of amusement in his expression. Her prized car, he thought, wasn't even worth the cost of his bike's handlebars. With a sly grin, he pulled her into his embrace, his tone teasing but firm. "Deal. I can't pay for your car repairs anyway. But don't complain later, little firecracker." With that, he swept her off her feet, carrying her with ease toward a nearby h*tel... When he said a whole night, he wasn't exaggerating. Charlee lost track of the moments she blacked out. Hours later, as she slipped back into her outfit, she couldn't summon the courage to meet his gaze. Her hoarse voice trembled with a warning as she said, "I have the crash footage. The moment I step out, we're nothing to each other. Stay silent." From behind her, his voice dripped with amusement, lazy yet sharp. "Interesting. I've kept a copy of that clip, too." Not catching his implication, Charlee grabbed her belongings and headed for the exit. Her shaky legs almost betrayed her, threatening to collapse beneath her. His deep chuckle echoed. "Sure you don't need more time to recover?" What a smug b**tard! She slammed the door behind her with every ounce of strength, nearly tempted to hit him with it. She missed the possessive glint in his eyes as he watched her leave. In the hotel lobby, the glowing screen of a television displayed breaking headlines. "A shocking revelation today--two elite families in Jurgh, set to unite through marriage, have faced public embarrassment. Sources claim the Todd heir stormed out of the ceremony, leaving the Sullivan heiress humiliated." A bystander muttered, "Rumor has it the groom's quite fond of his fiancee's half-sister. Now that her parents have rekindled their relationship, who knows? Maybe he'll end up with the other sibling." On the screen, Charlee appeared in a crimson gown, her hair dotted with celebratory confetti. The camera lingered on her frozen smile, magnifying the heartbreak behind it. Surprisingly, after her intense encounter, Charlee realized the pain from the breakup wasn't as sharp anymore. She had clung too tightly to Liam, convinced their years-long relationship was indestructible. She had let him take her affection for granted. But he was never irreplaceable. Someone else had managed to fill the void effortlessly. The stranger from last night, for instance, who possessed boundless endurance. Chapter 2 Obsession Charlee said, "Hello. I'd like to check out." Distracted by a heated debate over the latest news on TV, the receptionists glanced up from their conversation. Their eyes widened as they recognized the woman from the video, forcing a slightly awkward smile. One receptionist looked back at the screen and then at Charlee, clearly captivated by the latter's striking appearance. Her eyes flicked briefly to Charlee's neck as she processed the latter's check-out. As Charlee drove home, she reflected on the curious glances she received from the receptionists. Curious, she pulled out a mirror. The hi*keys on her neck were hard to miss. She reached for her foundation, carefully covering the marks. Most of them were still visible, though. That man's stamina was truly remarkable. Their meeting had begun with a car accident and quickly turned into a night of carefree fun. The memory brought a soft laugh to her lips. Thirty minutes later, she steered her sports car into the driveway of the Sullivans' grand villa. At the same moment, a black Cayenne rolled in beside her. As the car door swung open, Liam gently assisted Stacey Sullivan out, treating her with utmost care. His gaze turned cold when he spotted Charlee. "Keep your troubles away from Stacey. We'll talk later." His composed manner brought back memories of him setting boundaries, like prohibiting her from eating ice cream during her periods or wearing skirts to school. There was a time she almost adored this aspect of Liam. Now, it only disgusted her. Facing him, she said, "This is good timing. I'm calling off our engagement." Under the sunlight, she rose elegantly, her perfect skin radiating, her beautiful face emitting a captivating charm. Liam was caught off guard and then noticed the marks on her neck; his eyes filled with anger immediately. Releasing Stacey's arm, he strode toward Charlee and seized her wrist with a grip that almost broke it. "Where were you last night? Who is responsible for this?" He resembled a husband who felt deceived. Oh, the irony. "Let go," Charlee said, her eyes cold. "All this time, I've treated you well, yet you've acted shamelessly. To think you'd let another man's l*ps on your neck!" Liam refused to believe Charlee could betray him like this. He was convinced she'd asked someone to make those marks just to agitate him. Trapped in his grasp, Charlee flashed a mischievous smile. "Oh, it wasn't just my neck. His k*sses covered me completely." Realizing Charlee had seen the video, Liam's hold inadvertently weakened. "There's a reason for this. Please, don't let this hurt Stacey." He was aware of the video then. He certainly knew how to keep the excitement alive in the b*droom. Charlee could no longer hold back her frustration and sl*pped him. "Charlee, what's going on?" Stacey cried out as she dashed forward, encircling Charlee's waist with her arms and forcibly pulling the latter back. "Liam means the world to me, blame me if you must. He treats you so well. How could you sl*p him?" Stacey's tearful plea was followed by a low, sinister chuckle. Stacey whispered, "So, what is it like to be left alone at your own engagement? I merely scratched my wrist, and Liam couldn't stop comforting me." A cold dread crept over Charlee, feeling like she was trapped by a venomous snake, urging her to shove Stacey away. The moment she touched Stacey's arm, Stacey screamed and tumbled to the ground, her wrist bl**ding through the bandage. "Charlee!" Liam, seething with anger, rushed to Stacey's aid. "You owe Stacey an apology, now!" "Don't be so harsh, Liam," Stacey said softly, holding onto Liam's hand as he pointed at Charlee, her voice tender yet pitiful. "This is on me; I shouldn't have let my feelings for you go so far. She's supposed to be your bride. It's natural for Charlee to be upset. I accept whatever comes." Her act of pity managed to melt Liam's heart. "Please, don't cry, Stacey," he said. Chapter 3 Totally Disappointed Charlee's gaze lingered on Liam and Stacey's display of affection, her tone biting as she sneered, "You do realize this is on you, right?" Liam's eyes darkened with fury, cutting toward her like a bl*de. "You've crossed a line, Charlee. Stacey is your sister. She almost died, and you still feel the need to antagonize her?" "Sister?" Charlee's laugh was as icy as her stare. "You mean the one who s*duced her sister's fiance?" "You..." Liam's anger simmered as he steadied Stacey, leading her toward the Sullivan estate. As they neared Charlee, he turned sharply and barked, "Wait for me at the door." He spoke with the authority of someone who expected to be obeyed, confident in her usual compliance. But instead, Charlee strode past him without a second glance, her red dress flowing behind her. With her sleek black heels clicking against the pavement and her crimson lips curved in disdain, she exuded an untamed elegance, like a predator that couldn't be tamed. "This is my house," she said coolly, throwing the words over her shoulder. "You don't get to dictate what I do." Liam froze, startled by her defiance, his eyes glued to her retreating figure. Something about her felt different--unfamiliar. "Liam..." Stacey's soft, delicate voice rang out beside him, pulling him back to reality. His voice grew gentler. "That's just her way. Don't mind her. I'll handle it later and make sure she doesn't trouble you again. Let's get you back to rest." Stacey's eyes welled up as she gripped his arm tightly, unwilling to let go. "You said you'd stay with me, Liam," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. Her plea struck a chord deep within him. He replied softly, "Of course, I will. You did all that because you cared so much for me. I'll stay by your side until you're well again." Meanwhile, Charlee went upstairs, took a long shower, and changed before coming back to see Liam and Stacey finally entering the house together. Standing on the balcony, she nearly choked at the sight of them embracing, their affection on full display near the doorway. "Had enough of that yet?" she asked dryly, lounging on the sleek leather sofa, her legs elegantly crossed, exuding the air of a prowling feline. Suddenly, a sharp voice rang out from above. "What's your problem, Charlee? You're becoming impossible!" Her father, Keith Sullivan's stern expression darkened as he descended the stairs, trailed by Hannah Sullivan, his former wife. Hannah had settled in here, officially taking the title of Mrs. Sullivan in the eyes of others. Though dressed to impress, her harsh and hostile demeanor was impossible to miss. To Charlee, it was clear as day that, like Stacey, she was utterly hypocritical. Charlee didn't bother with an argument. Instead, she pulled out her phone, tapped a few times, and projected footage from the security camera onto the massive living room TV. The screen revealed Stacey and Liam locked in an intimate e*brace, their l*ps pressed together with a level of closeness that left nothing to the imagination. "Why would you do this, Charlee?" Stacey wailed, covering her face as though humiliated, then dashed upstairs, her sobs echoing through the halls. Anyone unaware of the full story might think Charlee had wronged her instead of exposing her. "Stacey, don't do anything reckless!" Hannah shouted, quickly following after her in a show of concern, making sure everyone remembered that Stacey was delicate and must not be upset. As expected, Keith lost his temper and stormed over to yank the TV's plug from the wall. "Charlee, are you determined to destroy this household?" Keith barked furiously. "Perhaps you should be asking Stacey that question," Charlee retorted, her disappointment cutting through her cold tone. She fixed him with an unyielding stare--one filled with bitterness, entirely void of warmth. Since losing her mother, she had come to understand just how fragile family bonds could be. For sixteen years, her mother had sacrificed everything to stand by Keith's side. Yet within a week of her passing, he had welcomed Hannah and Stacey into their home. How could he be so cruel? Chapter 4 Her Cruel Father Charlee's accusations deepened the anger etched on Keith's face. In a sharp tone, he said, "Stacey is your sister, and this is her home, too. She's bottled up her emotions, staying out of your way when it comes to Liam. She's reached a point of despair so profound it drove her to attempt to end her life. Yet, here you are, devoid of compassion and consumed by hostility. How can you be so unfeeling?" Liam, having shaken off the earlier awkwardness, finally spoke. "Mr. Sullivan, perhaps you should check on Stacey. I'll handle things with Charlee." Even now, Liam shielded Charlee, seemingly treating her with the same patience and indulgence as always. But his actions felt like repeated blows, each one more painful than the last. Charlee rose to her feet, her gaze icy and expression unreadable. "There's nothing left to discuss. The engagement is over." Liam countered, "Charlee, we've been together for years, and you've refused to get closer to me. I'm only human--I have needs too." His justification was absurd. Agreeing to share intimacy only after their engagement had somehow morphed into his excuse for betrayal. "So this is why you turned to Stacey?" A moment of silence followed. She couldn't help but let out a cold laugh. "If you're shameless enough to do this, at least have the decency to announce your plans to marry her. Stop skulking around like a coward. You're pathetic." Turning to leave, she felt Liam seize her wrist. "Are you insane?" He couldn't believe she had just called him a coward. She had never belittled him like this before. Charlee exhaled slowly before driving her foot into his shin. His pained cry echoed as she wrenched her hand free. "Try me, and you'll regret it," she warned, voice steady but threatening. At eighteen, Charlee had survived a harrowing kidnapping and near-r*pe attempt. The trauma had driven her to secretly train in kickboxing for four years. After winning a local championship, she had once jokingly told Liam she'd protect him as his personal bodyguard. Who would have thought he'd one day be the recipient of those skills? The irony was overwhelming. "You br*t! Get back here!" Keith stormed into the room, catching the tail end of their argument, his voice booming with fury. But Charlee didn't falter. She walked away with poise, not sparing him a glance. Now that the pretense was shattered, she was ready to move forward with her long-delayed plans. Liam clenched his jaw, suppressing the pain, waiting before attempting to stand. Keith waited for him to recover and then spoke. "Liam, I've indulged Charlee too much. About the marriage..." His meaning was unmistakable. He wanted to cancel the marriage arrangement between Charlee and Liam. Without the Todd family, Charlee would become obedient. And if he married Stacey to Liam, the Todd family would be his aide completely. Liam's frustration was evident. "Delay it. Stacey's health is fragile. Once she's better, I'll marry Charlee." Though Charlee had ended things, Liam didn't take her words seriously. At sixteen, she had hit rock bottom, relying entirely on him to pull her through. Her years of unwavering devotion were proof enough that she'd never truly leave him. โฆโฆ In the Sullivan Group's project department, Charlee sat in her office, focused on compiling reports. Keith hadn't stripped her of authority due to the family's partnership with the Todds. But now that she had called off the engagement, she needed to secure her position. At three in the afternoon, her assistant, Alexia Jenkins, burst into the office, knocking hastily before stepping inside, her face visibly drained of color. Trailing behind her, Stacey entered clad in a tailored light-gray suit, radiating an air of confidence and control. The meekness she displayed in front of Liam had vanished, replaced by an unrestrained sense of triumph. "Charlee, the board has voted to relieve you of your duties as project director. Starting today, I'll be stepping in to take over. All incomplete projects under your supervision will now fall to me. As for your reassignment..." Stacey's lips curled into a mocking smile as she tossed a blue folder onto the desk. "The newly established Green Biopharmaceuticals in the eastern suburbs needs someone to manage it. The tech is fully patented, and the production lines run seamlessly--your job will just be signing papers and killing time. See? Dad hasn't forgotten about you entirely." Chapter 5 Green Biopharmaceuticals The Sullivan Group owned four branches, and Green Biopharmaceuticals was the least promising of them all. Despite its grandiose name, it was nothing more than a basic contract manufacturing facility. Devoid of innovation or proprietary patents, it functioned solely as a production line, lacking any semblance of independence. Still, this company marked the genesis of the Sullivan Group's wealth, the hard-won achievement of Charlee's mother during her initial ventures into the industry. Charlee tapped her finger lightly on the document. "I'm the project director. Do you really think you can demote me to manage some rundown company? Dream on." Stacey remained composed, as though she had expected Charlee's resistance. "Dad said if you're unwilling to leave, you can stay in the project department, but under me as your supervisor. You'll have to take my orders." Charlee let out a sharp, derisive laugh. Her disdain was written all over her elegant face. "Mr. Sullivan knows you're useless, so he's forcing me to stay and clean up after you. How pathetic." The office door stood wide open, intentionally so. Stacey had planned for the entire project team to witness Charlee's humiliation. Yet, the plan backfired. With an air of confidence, Stacey squared her shoulders and lifted her chin. "I was appointed as director by the board. It was a unanimous decision. At the year-end meeting, I'll lead this team in collecting our accolades. Just wait." Charlee clicked her tongue dismissively. "Stop puffing yourself up." Without another word, she made a call and put it on speaker. After a few rings, Keith answered, his authoritative tone filling the room. "With the tension between you and Liam, I have to make a decision. Sign the papers and head to the company. Don't stir up trouble. I have a strategy in mind." His tone was firm yet sounded almost considerate. Charlee's lips curled into a mocking smile. "Mr. Sullivan, I own eight percent of the shares. Don't I qualify as a stakeholder?" Keith was silent for a moment before replying begrudgingly, "If two-thirds of the shareholders agree, it's out of your hands." His message was clear... Charlee's voice didn't matter. Charlee arched an eyebrow and glanced at Stacey with a smirk. "Unanimous, you said?" Stacey flushed crimson, while whispers spread among the onlookers outside the office. Stacey's credibility was already in tatters before she even assumed her new role. Before Stacey could recover and respond, Charlee's tone turned icy. "I want ownership of the pharmaceutical plant. Draft a revised agreement and send it to me. Then I'll sign and step aside. Otherwise... I don't mind dragging us all down." Before Keith could protest, Charlee hung up. She understood Stacey's ambitions all too well, but after three years as project director, Charlee wasn't about to surrender without a fight. Besides, she was never a pushover. Keith couldn't afford to gamble with everything at stake. Thirty minutes later, the company transfer papers were delivered to her desk. Charlee reviewed them meticulously before signing without hesitation. As she prepared to leave, Stacey, now firmly seated in the director's chair, issued orders. "Other than personal belongings, you're not to take a single thing from this office. Alexia, check her items." Alexia, who owed her position to Charlee, hesitated. Her contract, however, was with the Sullivan Group. Sparing her the dilemma, Charlee opened her own bag and box. She turned to Stacey, holding up a small jewelry case, her strikingly clear eyes fixed on her rival. "These are the ring and bracelet Liam had custom-made for me. One of a kind. Want them?" Seeing Stacey's enraged expression, Charlee tossed the jewelry box into the trash with a casual motion and dusted off her hands. "Getting rid of j*nk feels amazing." As she exited, the sound of shattering cups erupted behind her. Charlee smiled to herself. Was Stacey already cracking? She'd need to hold out until those projects were under her control. That was when the real battle would begin. Charlee had underestimated Stacey's and Keith's pettiness. When she attempted to drive away, security halted her vehicle, asserting it was property of the Sullivan Group. Now acting as director of the pharmaceutical company, Charlee had lost her privilege to use this car since the company's split from the Sullivan Group. Exiting her sports car, she slipped on her sunglasses and glanced toward her office building. Despite the distance, she could distinctly make out Stacey on the floor of her office, gracefully enjoying a cup of coffee. In a daring move, Charlee gave Stacey the finger, then turned on her heel and walked off with her belongings to hail a nearby taxi. As she waited, a sleek black Maybach rolled to a stop before her. The door swung open automatically, revealing a man lounging comfortably, an amused expression playing across his refined features. "What a coincidence." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fun Novels | 2467 | https://www.facebook.com/61563251196448/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679644 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/14/25, 5:25 AM | 1738567632 | 1749896709 | 2451 | cdnjkfiw.com | Learn more | IMAGE | ๐Mga Anak ng Bilyonaryo๐ | https://www.cdnjkfiw.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=17755&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 3.8701676448549E+14 | Philip Spicy Reading | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475030415_932702375670177_3562200665803436683_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EFOSwuU0GSUQ7kNvgGAAvBS&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Aqw6wxbKep6zoawjqele523&oh=00_AYBaHfMeMErE2bFNCoz_MEm58DswPOU3oMCZEvpjMfmGaA&oe=67A62B4F | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Madiing tinali ni Lorelei ang sintas ng luma niyang sapatos. Kalahating oras na lang ay magsisimula na ang klase niya ngunit hinihintay niya pa ang perang ibibigay ng kanyang Tita Agnes. Pang-huling taon na niya sa kolehiyo sa kursong business management. Gusto niya ay siya na ang mag-manage sa maliit na restaurant na iniwan ng yumao niyang ina na hawak ng Tita niya. Nagsalubong ang mga kilay niya at napasandal sa lumang sofa matapos marinig ang halinghing ng Tita niya mula sa kwarto. Sigurado siyang naroon na naman ang kinakasama nitong lalaki na si Richard. "Idiin mo, Richard!" dinig pa niyang sigaw ng Tita niya. Naiiling siyang pumikit. Maya-maya pa matatapos ang mga ito kaya naman tumayo na siya at kumatok sa pinto ng kwarto. "Tita, aalis na po ako." "Oh! Ode umalis kaโRichard!" muling hiyaw pa nito. "Iyong pera ko po," paalala niya pa rito ngunit daing at halinghing ang sagot nito. Paulit-ulit niyang kinatok ang pinto. Ang huling bigay nito ay limangdaan na pinagkasya niya ng isang linggo. Ayaw naman niyang basagin ang alkansyang baboy niya na mamiso lang ang laman. Nabitin sa ere ang pagkatok niya noong bumukas ang pinto. Niluwa no'n si Richard na pawisin, tanging basketball short ang suot, may hawak din itong libo-libong pera sa kamay. Namumutok ang mga braso nito at halos masakop ang pinto sa laki ng katawan. Mukha pa itong aburido noong tumingin sa kanya kaya napaatras siya. "Istorbo," parinig pa nito bago siya lagpasan. Napamaang siya at agad na pumasok sa kwarto. Huli niya pang nagsusuot pa lang ng t-shirt ang Tita niya. "Pera lang ang habol sa'yo ni Richard, Tita. Hiwalayan mo na iyon. Ang laki ng katawan no'n at kaya no'n ang magtrabahoโ" "Huwag kang makialam sa desisyon ko at hindi naman kita anak. Ikaw ang lumayas kung gusto mo. Bukas makalawa ay dito na titira si Richard. Mas maganda siguro kung humanap ka na ng ibang matitirahan at baka maging kaagaw pa kita sa kanya. Malaki ka na, kaya mo na ang sarili mo," pinal nitong sambit bago nagsuot ng underwear. Nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata niya, "Ginagatasan ka lang ng pera ni Richard, Titaโ" "Oh ayan, dalawang libo para matikom iyang bibig mo. Huling baon mo na iyan. Gagamitin ni Richard ang pera at magtatayo siya ng talyer." Mas lalo siyang nanlumo, "Hindi po pwede iyon. Pera ni Mama ang mga iyan. Kita sa restaurant niya, Tita. Huwag naman po kayong magpabilog kay Richard!" hindi niya mapigilang ilakas ang boses niya. Napalunok pa siya at natakot noong tumayo ito at lumapit sa kanya. Matalim na ang tingin nito. "Aba! Ano'ng pera ng Mama mo? Ilagay mo sa kokote mong matagal ng patay ang Mama mo at akin na ang restaurant na iyon. Pinag-aral at pinakain na kita. Nasa tamang edad ka na at kaya mo ng magtrabaho." Ilang beses pa nitong tinulak-tulak ang noo niya. "Hala sige, layas!" galit pa nitong sigaw bago siya itulak palabas ng pinto. Pinigil niya ang mga luha. Bandang huli ay hindi niya nakuha ang dalawang libong bigay nito. Nanghiram pa tuloy siya ng pera kay Nica. "Paano ang OJT mo? Titigil ka kailan huling taon na, Lei?" Nasapo niya ang noo at napasubsob sa mesa. Simula noong maging boyfriend ng Tita niya si Richard ay naging ganoon na ang Tita niya. "Ewan ko. Hindi ko na alam, Nica." Bumikig ang lalamunan niya sa badyang pag-iyak. Ni hindi niya pinansin ang grupong lumapit sa kanila. "Si Alicia," bulong pa sa kanya ni Nica. Si Alicia ang pinakasikat sa university nila. Mayaman, makinis, at madaming kakilala. Napasilip pa siya rito. Malaki ang ngiti nito, litaw ang naka-braces na ngipin. Ni hindi gumagalaw ang kulot na buhok na kulay blonde. Napaayos siya ng upo noong maglapag ito ng papel. "We're recruiting members for our sorority. You might want to join. Tonight is the initiation," magiliw nitong saad. Nangunot ang noo niya. Alam niyang hindi magandang sumali sa sorority ngunit noong mabasa niya ang mga benefits sa papel ay napalunok siya. "Free education and free allowance. Mayayaman lahat ng kasali at mga iilang negosyante. Nagpaparami lang kami ng miyembro. No fees, all free. Don't worry about the initiation, hindi naman iyon masakit. I would love to see both of you tonight." Kumindat pa ito bago umalis kasama ang dalawa pang alagad nito. "Maganda ang benefits nila, Lei. Solve ang problema mo kapag sumali tayo." Dumukwang ito at nilapit ang tainga sa kanya, "Tsaka alam mo ba, balita ko may kasapi silang Fraternity na puro gwapo," dagdag na bulong nito bago humagikhik. Wala siyang pakialam sa mga gwapo. Ang kagustuhan niyang makatapos ng kolehiyo ang nagtulak sa kanyang sumali. Makailang beses niya pang sinuklay ang malambot, tuwid, at maitim na hanggang balikat niyang buhok. Ginamit niya rin ang lipbalm upang malambot tingnan ang mga labi niya. Kaunting polbo lang ay sinuot na niya ang puting lumang bestida niyang abot hanggang tuhod at sandalyas na naging dirty white na. Kabado pa siya noong makarating sa hideout ng mga ito. Nasa pila na rin si Nica na agad kumaway sa kanya. Mabilis siyang lumapit. "Piliin raw natin iyong sarap sabi ni Alicia. Lahat kasi ng pumili ng hirap ay dinadala sa kabila at nakakatanggap ng hampas at palo," bulong nito. "Huh? Akala ko ba hindi masakit ang initiation nila?" "Hindi nga kapag sarap ang pinili mo. Basta, doon tayo sa turo ni Alicia. Ayokong magkapeklat, Lei." Napalunok siya at hindi mawari ang kaba sa dibdib niya. Makailang beses niya pang pinisil ang mga kamay. "Nica Fernandez!" sigaw ng lalaking tingin niya ay bouncer. Nagtaas ng kamay ang kaibigan niya bago humarap sa kanya. "Tandaan mo ang pipiliin mo, Lei. Iyon ang pipiliin ko. Magkita na lang tayo ulit bukas. Para sa pangarap, Lei!" pagpapasigla pa nito ngunit hindi niya masuklian ng ngiti. Siya na ang kasunod pagkatapos nito ngunit hindi na siya mapakali. May tatlo pang babae sa likod niya at dinig niyang pipiliin din ng mga ito ang pinapapili sa kanya ni Nica. "Lorelei Carpio!" Napaigtad siya sa malakas na sigaw ng bouncer. Muntik pa siyang madapa sa pagkataranta para lang makalapit. Tumuwid siya ng tayo. Pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin. Nangunot ang noo nito ngunit hindi nagkomento. Baka iniisip nitong bata siya sa height niyang 5'5 at balingkinitang katawan. "Sarap o hirap, Miss?" hindi nakangiting tanong nito. Napalunok siya at naumid yata ang dila pero kailangan niyang sumagot. Malaking benepisyo ang makukuha niya kapag natanggap siya sa sorority ni Alicia. "S-arap po," pikit-matang sagot niya. Inangat nito ang palad at agad na lumapit ang isa pang bouncer. "Nandiyan na ba si Phoenix?" tanong nito sa tinawag. "Kadarating lang pero nasa kwarto na." "Good. Ibigay mo 'yan sa kanya at ipaalala mong birhen 'yan," utos pa nito sa lalaki. Nangunot ang noo niya ngunit napapikit noong basta na lang siya lagyan ng blindfold sa mga mata. "B-akit po may blindfold?" kabadong tanong niya. "Hindi mo pwedeng makita ang makakasama mo. Bawal mong silipin o tanungin ang pangalan niya. Kapag ginawa mo iyon, madi-disqualify ka at hindi ka tatanggapin sa grupo," paalala pa ng bouncer na lumapit. Tinatak niya sa isip ang mga sinabi nito. Napasunod siya noong hilahin siya nito sa kung saan. Narinig niya rin ang tunog ng doorknob. Marahan pa siya nitong tinulak sa loob. Sumalubong sa kanya ang mabangong amoy ng lemon. Hindi niya mawari kung air freshener iyon o pabango. "New recruit?" tanong ng mababa at tila namamaos na boses. Nanindig pa ang mga balahibo niya sa bahagyang lamig sa boses nito. "Birhen 'yan. Ingatan mo." Nahigit niya ang hininga at kinabahan noong bitiwan na siya ng lalaki. Ramdam niya bigla ang tensyon sa paligid, maging ang mariing titig sa kanya. "I'm not gonna educate you. I hope you know why you are here and why you came here... willingly," seryosong sambit pa nito gamit ang namamaos nitong boses. Mabilis siyang tumango. Ang sabi sa kanya ay mabilis lang ang initiation kaya baka tanong nga lang iyon. "Uhm, I w-ant to finish my studies; that's why I came here," kabadong sagot niya ngunit malutong pagmumura ang narinig niya mula dito. Kasunod ay ang pagbukas ng pinto, "Inosente itong ni-recruit niyo! Get her outta here!" biglang sigaw nito sa labas. "You can't back out, Phoenix. Alam mo ang mangyayari sa kanya kapag pinaalis mo siya ngayon," madiing sagot ng kung sino. Marahas na buntong hininga ang narinig niya at malakas ding sinara ang pinto. Nagtaasan muli ang mga balahibo niya sa gulat noong humawak ang may kagaspangan nitong palad sa braso niya. "I hope you won't regret coming here," mabigat nitong bulong. Nanlamig siya noong umikot ang malaking braso nito sa bewang niya. Sa tantiya niya ay malaki din ang katawan nito lalo na noong lumapat ang balikat niya sa malapad nitong dibdib. Napaatras pa siya noong maramdaman ang daliri nitong binababa ang strap ng kanyang bestida. "A-nong gagawin mo?" Humakbang ito na kinaatras niya. Mahina siyang napasigaw sa pagbagsak niya sa kama. Gulat pa siya sa malaking katawan na biglang umibabaw sa kanya. Kumalabog ng husto ang puso nita. Sakop na sakop ng malaking katawan nito ang katawan niya. "S-andali!" Sinubukan niyang pigilan ang dibdib nito kahit hindi niya nakikita ngunit hinuli nito ang mga kamay niya at parehong pininid sa kama gamit ang isang palad nito. Bumigat ang paghinga niya lalo na noong sumiksik sa looban ng bestida niya ang malaking palad nito. "You should not have come here, Miss. Now you left me no choice but to take you," mabigat na bulong nito bago lumapat ang mga basang labi sa kanyang leeg. Lalo siyang nanlamig matapos matanto ang nangyayari. Hindi siya nakakilos. Ang naglalakabay nitong mainit na palad at ang malaking katawan nito sa itaas niya ay sapat na upang mangilid ang mga luha niya. "H-uwag po," nanginig pa ang boses niya. Marahas na bumuntong hininga ang lalaki, "You chose this. I tried my best to help you. The least thing I can do... is to be gentle," tila nahihirapang bulong nito. Napalunok siya kahit pa unti-unti nitong naalis ang mga saplot niya. Niyakap siya ng lamig ng aircon ngunit natakpan sa init ng malaking katawan nitong nasa itaas niya. Ang kabog ng dibdib niya ay walang kasing lakas sa pinaghalong kaba at kung ano man ang pinaparamdam nito sa kanya lalo noong dumausdos ito pababa... sa pagitan ng mga hita niya. Nanginig ang mga hita niya noong maramdaman ang mainit nitong paghinga't bibig nitong dumampi doon. Pinagpawisan siya nang malagkit kasabay ng kaba. Tanging impit na ungol at daing ang naibulalas niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang bibig nito doon. Napapabalikwas ang bewang niya ngunit hindi ito masipa. Para siyang na-estatwa noong magtagal ito doon hanggang sa mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa mga labi niya. Hinihingal pa siya sa paggapang nito muli sa itaas niya, pinaghiwalay ang mga hita niya, at pinwesto ang malaking katawan doon. Hindi siya nakaprotesta, naumid ang dila niya at hindi mahanap ang boses niya. Sunod na lang niyang namalayan ay ang pagtulo ng luha niya sa hapdi matapos mag-isa ang katawan nila. Namilipit siya sa sakit sa bawat galaw nito. Tila napunit na nito lahat ng nasa loob niya at kahit bagalan pa nito ay hiyaw ang kumakawala sa bibig niya. Pinirmi pa nito ang bewang niya. Nawalan na rin ng lakas ang mga kamay niya na kahit binitiwan nito ay hindi siya nakakilos para itulak ito. Namimigat ang paghinga niya at napapa-igik sa bawat madiing galaw nito sa loob niya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang malaking katawan nitong gumagalaw sa kanyang itaas. Ni hindi niya alam kung paanong natapos ang pangyayaring iyon. Ang alam niya lang ay nakuha ng isang estrangherong lalaki ang puri niya. Paggising niya ay nananakit ang katawan niya. Takot pa siyang alisin ang blindfold ngunit kusa iyong nalaglag. Namulatan niya ang tahimik na kwarto, walang bakas na may nakasama siya ngunit ang dugo sa kobre kama ay patunay na wala na sa kanya ang iniingatan niya. Napasubsob siya sa kanyang tuhod at napahagulhol. Masyado siyang nagpadalos-dalos sa desisyon niya! Dapat ay inalam niya muna kung ano'ng klaseng sarap ang sinasabi ng mga ito! Kahit hirap maglakad ay pinilit niya ang sariling magbihis at umalis sa lugar na iyon. Wala na rin naman ang mga bouncer. Kahit si Nica ay hindi niya mahagilap. Sa sobrang pagod niya ay hindi na niya pinansin ang boyfriend ng Tita niya na nasa sala. Diretso siyang kwarto at binagsak ang katawan doon. Ang masama, nilagnat pa siya at napanaginipan ng ilang beses ang nangyari! Tatlong araw din siyang hindi nakapasok. Para siyang lutang na naglalakad noong pumasok na sa eskwela. Natulala pa siya sa nakangiti niyang kaibigan. "Bayad na ang tuition fee nating dalawa. Ang galing! May allowance pa, Lei!" Hagikhik nito bago pinakita ang cheque na may malaking halagang nakasulat. Napalunok siya. Ito na iyon. Ito na ang kapalit ng pagsali nila sa Sorority. Dapat bang kalimutan na lang niya ang nangyari sa kanila ng lalaki? "Ang balita ko ay mga Fraternity leader ang mga lalaking iyon, Lei. Hindi ko rin nakilala ang sa'kin," kwento pa ni Nica sa kanya. "H-indi ka ba umiyak? O nasaktan? Ako kasi pakiramdam ko nahati ang katawan ko," mahinang sambit niya. Namula ang mga pisngi nito, "Hindi ko una iyon kaya... sakto lang ang sakit." Napaawang ang mga labi niya sa kaibigan. Hindi pa mag-sink in sa kanya iyon. Wala naman siyang karapatan na husgahan ito kaya tumango na lang siya. "Wala bang meeting ang Sorority ngayon? Gusto kong magtanong kay Alicia. Baka pwede ko ng makita man lang iyong Phoenix na nakasama ko," imbis ay liko niya sa usapan. "Hindi tayo natanggap doon, Lei." "A-no? P-aanong hindi? Pero bayad na ang tuition fee base na rin sa benefits nila." Umiling ito, "Bayad iyon sa'tin, Lei. Hindi tayo kasapi ng grupo nila. Hindi tayo tinanggap." Para siyang nabingi sa narinig. Kumuyom ang kamao niya. Ang ibig sabihin ay inalay lang sila sa mga Fraternity leader na iyon. Gusto niyang magdamdam at ibalik ang perang natanggap ngunit hindi niya magawa lalo na noong mas maghigpit sa pera ang Tita Agnes niya. Naka-survive siya ng halos dalawang buwan sa allowance na bigay ng grupo. May natira pa ngunit hindi sasapat iyon kaya muli siyang kumakatok sa kwarto ng Tita niya. "Tita, hihingi po sana ako ng allowanceโ" Nabitin sa ere ang kamay niya at napatingala kay Richard noong buksan nito ang kwarto. Sumandal pa ito at humalukipkip. Napaatras siya noong bigla siya nitong pasadahan ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Nagtagal pa ang mga titig nito sa mga dibdib niya kaya nayakap niya ang sarili. "B-akit ka nandito? N-asaan si Tita Agnes?" Ngumisi ito at mas niluwangan ang pinto, "Dito na ako nakatira. May binili lang ang Tita mo. Kalahating oras pa iyon sa bayan. Baka gusto mong paligayahin muna kita." Napasinghap siya sa takot at umatras "Manyak!" galit niyang sigaw dito ngunit pilit nitong inabot ang siko niya at hinihila siya papasok sa kwarto. "Mabilis lang, Lei. Hindi malalaman ng Tita mo. Tayong dalawa langโ" "Bitiwan mo ko! Ayoko sa'yo!" Malakas niya itong sinampal. Nabitiwan siya nito at sinalo ang pisnging sinampal niya. "Punyeta ka, Lorelei! Bakit mo sinampal si Richard?!" biglang sigaw ng Tita niya mula sa likod kaya natulos siya sa kinatatayuan.p Nanginig siya sa kaba lalo na sa nanlilisik na tingin ng Tita niya. "T-ita, kasiโ" "Lumayas kang Punyeta ka! Palamunin ka na nga lang hindi ka pa marunong rumespeto!" Namilog ang mga mata niya noong bigla na lang siya nitong hilahin sa buhok at kaladkarin sa labas ng bahay. "T-ita, nagkakamali kayo! Sinubukan niya akong dalhin sa kwartoโ" "Wala akong pakialam! Napakalandi mo at pati boyfriend ko inaakit mo!" sigaw nito bago siya tinulak sa labas ng pinto. Muntik na siyang sumubsob sa lupa kun'di siya nakabalanse. Malakas pa nitong sinarado ang pinto ngunit bumalik para lang itapon sa pagmumukha niya ang iilang damit. "Lumayas ka at huwag kang babalik dito! Hindi ko kailangan ng malanding pamangkin!" sobrang lakas na sigaw nito na nakapagpalabas sa mga kapitbahay nila. Hiyang-hiya siya noong magbulungan ang mga iyon. Nayakap na lang niya ang mga damit at ang alkansyang baboy niyang tinapon nito sa kanyang paanan. Nagbagsakan ang mga luha niya. Gusto niyang ipaglaban na bahay iyon ng Mama niya ngunit alam niyang hindi na makikinig ang tiyahin niya. Tinago na lang niya ang mukha sa mga damit na hawak at mabilis na nagtawag ng tricycle. Nagpunta siya kila Nica at maging ito ay gigil na gigil sa tiyahin niya at kay Richard matapos niyang magkwento. "Ipabarangay mo, Lei. Wala siyang karapatan sa bahay na iyon. Sa'yo iyon! Pati ang negosyo ng Mama mo, sa'yo iyon! Pinagkaitan ka niya, lahat ng pera ng Mama mo siya ang nagwaldas. Hmp! Kumukulo ang dugo ko sa Tita Agnes mo!" Umakto pa itong manunugod ngunit pinigilan niya sa siko at umiling dito. "H-uwag na, Nica. Hindi ko na rin naman gugustuhing bumalik doon lalo na kung naroon si Richard." "Pero paano ka? Saan ka titira? Paano ang pag-aaral mo? Patapos na tayo, Lei. Bayad na rin ang tuition fee mo." Bumagsak ang tingin niya sa sahig at nanlabo ang mga mata. Hindi niya rin alam kung paano malalagpasan iyon pero pinilit niyang maghanap ng trabaho at apartment na maliit. Sakto lang sa kanya ngunit pagod na pagod nga lang siya bilang waitress ng eatery. Makailang beses tuloy siyang nakatulog sa klase at ang huli ay nahuli pa siya ng lalaking matandang professor niya. "Miss Carpio, alam mong bawal matulog sa klase ko." Napalunok siya at hindi mapigilan ang mga pumipikit na mga mata, "S-orry, Sir. Hindi na po mauulit." Umismid ito at lumayo ngunit noong makita siya na muling pumikit ay galit na siya nitong pinalabas. Nanghihina tuloy siyang napakapit sa pader ng hallway. Naghabol ng paghinga at pakiramdam niya ay umiikot ang paligid niya. Isang hakbang pa ay alam niyang sinakop na siya ng dilim. Noong magising ay nasa tabi na niya si Nica na mukhang kinabahan. Mabilis pa itong umalalay noong pilitin niyang umupo. "Ano'ng nangyari? Tsaka bakit ako nasa clinic, Nica?" Natameme ito ngunit nangilid ang luha sa gilid ng mga mata. Binugso tuloy siya ng kaba at napatitig dito. "B-akit, Nica?" Suminghot ito, "B-untis ka, Lei." Tila nawalan siya ng paghinga sa narinig mula dito. Napalunok siya at nag-init ang sulok ng mga mata. "Hindi gumamit ng proteksyon ang nakasama mo sa initiation, Lei. Binuntis ka niya," sobrang hinang sambit nito. Bumagsak ang luha niya at nanginginig ang kamay na dumapo sa impis niyang tiyan. "Patakaran ng Fraternity nila na gumamit ng proteksyon, pero dahil buntis ka... sigurado akong hindi siya gumamit no'n," patuloy pa nitong paliwanag ngunit naba-blangko na ang isip niya lalo't hindi na niya alam ang sunod na gagawin sa buhay niya. "P-aano ko siya mahahanap, Nica? Paano na ako? Hindi ko pa kaya." Tuloy - tuloy na naglandas ang mga luha niya habang inaalala ang pangalan ng lalaki. "Phoenix. Tama, Phoenix ang pangalan niya, Nica. Hanapin na'tin. Itanong na'tin kay Alicia," pagsusumamo niya sa kaibigan ngunit umiling ito. "Phoenix is just a code name, Lei. Sigurado akong hindi rin siya kilala ni Alicia lalo na kung isa siya sa mga leader," sagot nito na nagpabagsak sa mga balikat niya. "Tingin ko, sinadya niyang buntisin ka," muling sambit nito na nagpakuyom sa kamao niya. FIVE YEARS LATER Para siyang pinutulan ng pakpak dahil sa nangyaring iyon sa buhay niya. Wala siyang choice noon kun'di tumigil sa pag-aaral at magpokus sa trabaho para may pera pagkapanganak niya. Sinubukan naman niyang hanapin ang lalaki, pati nga si Alicia ay ginulo niya ngunit bigla na lang itong naglaho na parang bula. Pati ang kaibigan niyang si Nica ay bigla ring nawala at hindi alam kung saan napunta kaya natakot siyang maghaluglog pa ng impormasyon. Ang tanging nalaman niya ay leader ng Alpha Omega Fraternity ang lalaking nakakuha sa pagkabirhen niya. Limang taon na ang lumipas ngunit hindi niya talaga makakalimutan ang nangyaring iyon lalo't dalawang supling ang pabaon sa kanya ng lalaki. "Mama, wait ka namin mamaya. Promise mo bibili po tayo ng toys?" Kumurap-kurap pa sa kanya ang biluging mga mata ng anak niyang babaeng si Odessy. Marahan siyang lumuhod at inayos ang pagkaka-pigtail ng buhok nito. "Promise! Huwag kang lalayo kay Achi ah? Makinig kay teacher," habilin niya dito bago marahang hinila din palapit ang anak niyang lalaking si Achilles. "Mama, iyong book. Isa na lang bilhin mo po, share na lang kami ni Ody," marahang paalala sa kanya ni Achilles. Pilit siyang ngumiti sa mga ito. Parehong nasa daycare ang dalawa. Pinipilit niyang maibigay lahat ng pangangailangan nila pero sobrang hirap lalo't hindi siya tapos ng kolehiyo at hindi makahanap ng trabahong mataas ang pasahod. "Hindi pwede, Achi. Kailangan tig-isa kayo. Doon kayo sasagot. Ako ng bahala. Bantayan mo ang kapatid mo. Baka makipag-away." Ginulo niya pa ang buhok ito at marahang kinurot ang hindi kalakihang pisngi. "Pwede naman ako sa papel lang sasagot, Mama," pilit nito na inilingan niya. Ayaw niya ng ganoon. Hindi niya ipagkakait ang magandang edukasyon sa mga anak niya. Hindi hangga't nabubuhay siya. "Si Mama na bahala. Ubusin niyo baon niyo. Okii?" Malawak na ngumiti si Ody sa kanya at humawak sa braso ng kapatid. Si Achi man ay pilit na ngumiti. "Mama, ingat!" sabay pang sigaw ng dalawa bago maglakad papasok sa classroom. Pinigilan niya ang naninikip na dibdib matapos tumama sa liwanag ng araw ang mga mata ng mga ito at masilayan kung paanong naging kayumanggi ang mga itim na mga mata ng mga ito. Ilang beses na niyang hinanap sa mga lalaki ang ganoong klase ng mata. Maitim kapag walang araw ngunit kulay kayumanggi kapag nasinagan. Hindi ganoon ang mga mata niya kaya sigurado siyang namana ng dalawa iyon sa mga ama ng mga ito. Hindi rin siya naniniwalang sinadya siyang buntisin ng lalaking iyon dahil hanggang ngayon, walang nagpapakilala para akuin ang mga anak niya. Bumuga siya ng hangin at agad na nagtungo sa opisina ng abogadong amo niya. Ngunit masamang balita ang bumungad sa kanya. "I'm really sorry, Lei. Ipapasara na ang firm. Sa bahay na muna magtatrabaho ang asawa ko at ako na muna ang sekretarya niya. Pasensya ka na. Huling sahod mo na 'to." Nilapit pa ni Misis Alvarez ang sobre sa kanya. Napalunok siya at napatitig doon. Dalawang taon na siyang sekretarya ni Mr. Alvarez at hindi naman lingid sa kaalamam niyang pabagsak na ang firm nito. Nilunok na lang niya ang bikig sa lalamunan niya. Sigurado siyang mahihirapan na naman siyang maghanap ng trabaho. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Umikot na rin sa isip niya ang mga bayarin niya. Simula sa renta sa bahay, sa kuryente, allowance ng kambal, at mga bayarin sa eskwela. "W-ala po ba kayong kilala na... pwede kong lipatan, Misis Alvarez?" Bumuntong hininga ang Ginang, "Tatawagan ko ang kakilala ko, Hija. Itatanong ko kung may alam siyang naghahanap ng sekretarya pero hindi ako nangangako. Tatawagan na lang kita." Bagsak ang balikat na umalis siya doon. Halos hindi siya makalunok matapos bilangin ang iilang libong sahod niya para sa buwan na iyon. Tubig nga lang ang binili niya sa convenience store habang nagtitingin - tingin sa diyaryo. Kahit ano'ng trabaho papatusin na niya kaysa walang trabaho sa loob ng ilang buwan. "Tanggal na naman?! Pang ilan na 'yan ngayong buwan. Ano bang gusto niya? Single? Walang single na babae ang papatol sa gusto ni Mr. Montanier โFine, Eman. Ako na ang maghahanap ng bago niyang sekretarya. Kainis!" Nagpantig ang tainga niya sa narinig at mabilis na napaangat ng tingin sa Ginang na aburidong binaba ang hawak na cellphone. Mabilis siyang tumayo noong akma itong lalabas sa convenience store. Nagulat ito noong pigilan niya sa braso. "Bakit, Hija?" Kumunot ang noo nito sa kanya. Sa tantiya niya ay nasa edad forty-five na ito base na rin sa iilang litaw na puting buhok. "N-aghahanap po kayo ng sekretarya?" kabadong tanong niya. Literal na pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. Sa kaba niya ay nabitiwan niya ang braso nito. "May asawa ka?" Mabilis siyang umiling, "Wala po!" Tumango ito at nilahad ang kamay kaya mabilis niyang nilagay doon ang resume niya. Mabilis nitong pinasadahan ang papel bago pinasok sa bag nito. "Tanggap ka na. Sumama ka sa'kin." Walang pagdadalawang isip siyang sumama sa Ginang. Imbis na sa kumpanya ay sa malaki at modernong bahay siya dinala. Sa isang exclusive subdivision iyon. Babasagin ang dingding at kumikinang ang mga mamahaling mwebles ng bahay. Kulay abo at puti ang bahay kaya sigurado siyang lalaki ang magiging amo niya. "Ako si Melia, Hija. Pinaka-sekretarya ni Sir Hector. Bukod sa'kin, may isa pa siyang sekretarya, si Eman. Pareho kaming sa kumpanya at kailangan pa ng isa pang sekretarya ni Sir Hector. On-call at kung pwede ay stay-in." Natigilan siya sa sinabi nito, "Stay-in po?" Hindi pwede sa kanya ang trabahong ganoon lalo na kung hindi pwedeng dalhin ang mga anak niya. "Bawal ba, Hija? Kaya tinanong kita kung may asawa ka. Madalas na magtrabaho sa bahay si Hector. Workholic at umaabot ng madaling araw. Kailangan na may magremind sa kanya sa schedule at dapat niyang pirmahan. Hindi naman madalas na stay-in pero paglalaanan na kita ng kwarto dito. Wala ka naman din sigurong anak di ba? Gusto niya ay single, walang extra baggage at kaya ang trabaho. Sana naman ikaw na ang huli at magtatagal dito sa bahay niya," patuloy na paliwanag nito. Nakagat niya ang ibabang labi. Kung ganoon hindi niya pwedeng sabihin na may kambal siyang anak. "Maglipat ka na ng iilang gamit mo. Pwede kang bumalik bukas ng umaga para pag-usapan ang sahod mo. Nasa event pa si Sir Hector at madaling araw pa babalik. Lahat ng gamit dito pwede mong gamitin. Kung masipag ka, linisin mo na rin, may dagdag sahod naman. Isabay mo na rin ang kwarto niya." "Hindi po ba nakakatakot si Sir Hector?" Natigil ito sa tanong niya. Pagkaraan ay tinuro ang malaking portrait sa sala. Sinundan niya iyon ng tingin. Nagtaasaan ang mga balahibo niya sa klase ng tingin nito sa camera. Galit maging ang magkasalubong nitong makapal na kilay. Walang ngiti ang manipis na labi at mabalbas na panga. Halata ring matigas ang panga nito. At ang ilong, sobrang tangos! Maging ang buhok nitong nakasuklay palikod ay kumikinang sa larawan. Higit sa lahat, litaw ang matipunong dibdib nitong may makapal na balahibo. Sa larawan ay seryoso itong nag-aayos sa relong pambisig. "He's Hector Montanier and he's a perfectionist. So please, beware. Huwag kang gumawa ng bagay na ikakagalit niya kung ayaw mong mawalan agad ng trabaho, Hija," madiing paalala nito kaya napalunok siya. Kaya niya ba? Kaya niya bang pagsilbihan ang lalaking sa larawan pa lang ay mukhang papatay na? Paano pa sa personal? Baka hindi na siya makahinga kapag nakaharap ito. "Gusto ka niyang makausap." Gulat pa siya noong ilahad ni Miss Melia ang cellphone sa kanya. Nanginginig ang kamay niyang tinanggap iyon at nilagay sa tainga niya. Dinig niya ang mahinang musika sa background ngunit mas dinig niya ang mabibigat nitong paghinga. "Your name?" swabe at malamig ang boses nito kaya nahigit niya ang paghinga. "L-orelei Carpio po, Sir." Mahina ngunit marahas na paghinga ang narinig niya mula dito. "Lorelei, hmm," namamaos na sambit nito sa pangalan niya at hindi niya alam kung bakit naghatid iyon ng kakaibang init sa kaibuturan niya. Mabilis niyang binalik ang cellphone kay Miss Melia. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya at hindi kayang kausapin ang bagong boss niya. "B-abalik na lang po ako bukas," tarantang paalam niya. Kahit hindi pa ito um-oo ay lumabas na siya ng bahay na iyon. May mali sa pakiramdam niya. Bakit ganoon? Bakit pakiramdam niya buong boses nito ang humagod sa katawan niya? Iniisip niya pa kung narinig na ba niya iyon noon, pamilyar ngunit hindi niya maalala. "Lorelei, hmm." Muling umulit sa isipan niya ang pagtawag nito sa kanya. Naipagdikit niya ang mga hita lalo't tila namasa ang nasa pagitan ng mga iyon. Bumigat ang paghinga niya. Parang ayaw na niyang tanggapin ang trabaho lalo na kung araw - araw niyang makakasalamuha si Hector Montanier. Tulala tuloy siya noong sunduin ang kambal. Dinala niya pa sa malapit na bilihan ng laruan para na rin makalimutan niya ang pagtawag ni Sir Hector sa kanya. "Itong teddy bear na lang, Mama. Kapag barbie, ako lang ang maglalaro, kapag car naman, si Achi lang. Pero itong bear, pwede kaming share, Mama!" Masiglang tinaas pa ni Ody ang maliit na puting teddy bear. Nahabag siya sa mga ito. Hindi man lang niya maibili ng kahit tig-isang laruan. Hindi man lang niya mapakain sa sikat na fastfood ang mga anak. Mabilis siyang tumango ngunit umiwas ng tingin noong mapansin ang paninitig ni Achi sa kanya. Binayaran na lang niya ang teddy bear para makauwi na sila. Akala niya ay nakaligtas na siya sa mapanuring titig ng anak ngunit hindi. "Mama, iyong book. Kailangan na raw bilhin. Isa na lang, Mama. Kay Ody na lang. Kung hindi pwede, sa susunod na lang po ako mag-aral," kalmadong pagkausap ni Achi sa kanya. Parang pinilipit ang puso niya. Hindi niya hahayaan na mangyari iyon! Hindi deserve ng mga anak niya na maranasan ang nangyari sa kanya. "Hindi, Achi. Bibilhin natin bukas iyon. May bago na akong trabaho." Pinisil niya pa muli ang pisngi nito. Namula nga iyon lalo na't sobrang puti ng dalawa. Ang balak tuloy niyang pagtanggi na sa trabaho ay naudlot. Mas kailangan niya pala iyon. Bahala na kung ano'ng klaseng tao si Sir Hector, basta siya, trabaho lang ang gusto niya. Kinabukasan ay kinausap niya ang mga ito na gagabihin siya. Ayaw niyang iwanan pero hindi niya pwedeng isama. Kung malaki ang sahod niya ay kukuha siya ng bantay para sa mga ito. Kabado siyang bumalik sa malaking bahay. Sa harap pa lang ng pinto ay kumakalabog na ang dibdib niya. Kita na niya roon ang mamahaling sport car na wala kahapon. Nanginginig tuloy ang kamay niyang i-input ang code na pinadala pa sa mensahe ni Miss Melia upang mabuksan niya ang pinto. Pagbukas ay tumambad sa kanya ang pares ng mamahaling itim na sapatos. Pinulot niya iyon upang maitabi. Ngunit nabaling ang atensyon niya sa mahinang hilik sa sala. Kinakabahan siyang lumapit. Tumingkayad para lang masilip ang bagong boss niyang mahimbing ang tulog sa sofa. Halos hindi nga ito magkasya doon sa laki ng katawan. Ang isang binti nito ay nasa sahig habang ang isa ay nasa arm rest. Unan nito ang namumutok na braso at higit sa lahat ay bukas ang suot nitong puting longsleeve kaya't malaya niyang nasilayan ang makapal na balahibo sa matipuno nitong dibdib. Napalunok siya at imbis na lumiko ay umakyat ang tingin niya sa awang nitong mga labi. Namumula at nakasilip pa ang pantay-pantay na puting ngipin nito. Sa totoo lang, para itong modelo ng brief at toothpaste na lumabas sa magazine. Pati panga ay naninigas at sigurado siyang hindi basta-basta ang alaga nito sa ibaba. Ano bang pinag-iisip niya?! "Are you done checking me out, Miss?" namamaos pang bigkas nito bigla kaya napasinghap siya. Nabitin sa ere ang paghinga niya at namilog ang mga mata noong magkatitigan sila. Inaantok pa ang itim nitong mga mata at sobrang haba ng mga pilikmata kaya lalo siyang hindi nakapagsalita. "Close your mouth. Your lips look so delectable," inaantok nitong bigkas muli ngunit iba ang dating ng boses sa kanya kaya nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Ang boses nito ay parang kagagaling sa nakakapagod na ehersisyo sa kama. Magaspang na namamaos. "Close them... please. I might kiss you if you keep drooling on me. Do you want me... to take you here?" biglang tanong nito kaya namula lalo ang mga pisngi niya. Para siyang naeskandalo at hindi na makatingin dito ngunit nahuli niya ang pag-angat ng gilid ng labi nito. Hindi iyon ngiti kun'di maliit na ngisi. Lumitaw pa sa kanang gilid ng labi nito ang hindi kalalimang dimple. "Just kidding. Let's talk inside my office," bawi nito bago biglang bumangon. Mabilis siyang umiwas at napayuko noong basta na lang ito nag-alis ng butones ng longsleeve nito at swabe iyong hinubad. "Do I smell liquor?" mabigat na tanong nito kaya lang ay ayaw niyang lumingon dito kaya nanatili ang titig niya sa sahig. "I'm asking you. Amoy alak ba ako, Lorelei?" halos paos na naman ang boses nito kaya napapikit siya nang mariin. Iba talaga ang hagod ng boses nito sa katawan niya. Lahat ng balahibo niya ay nagtataasan at pati puson niya ay nakikiliti. Napalunok siya noong maramdaman ang paglapit nito. Pagmulat pa niya ay mabalahibong paa ang nakita niya sa harap ng mga paa niya. "N-o, Sir. H-indi po kayo amoy alak," kabadong sagot niya noong akma siya nitong hahawakan. Pag-angat ng tingin niya ay seryoso itong naninitig sa kanya. Salubong ang kilay. Hindi niya nga maitutok ang tingin sa mukha nito lalo't nakabalandra sa harap niya ang hubad nitong katawan. Bumigat ang paghinga niya at gusto na lang pindutin ang matitigas nitong muscles. "In my office," may awtoridad na nitong utos bago tumalikod. Napabuga siya ng hangin. Napapaypay sa sarili at hindi maiwasang manghina. Parang naubos ang lakas niya dito. Sinulyapan niya na lang ang matipuno nitong likod na pumasok sa isang pinto. Huminga siya nang malalim nang ilang beses at binalik ang mga sapatos sa sahig bago sumunod. Nakasandal na ito sa swivel chair at mukhang hinihintay siya. Nahuli niya agad ang mariing titig nito. "Here, Lorelei," malalim na sambit nito at marahang tinipa ang daliri nito sa mesa. Tahimik siyang lumapit kahit nahihiya. Na-conscious siya sa paninitig nito at pakiramdam niya ay hubad na siya sa isip nito. "I might require you to work 24/7, so make sure you don't have any extra baggage to attend to. Don't worry, I'll pay you triple or name your price," seryosong saad nito matapos iabot sa kanya ang blankong cheque na may pirma na nito. Napatitig siya doon ngunit hindi inasahan ang pagtayo nito at paglapit sa likod niya. Muli siyang naestatwa matapos maramdaman ang init ng paghinga nito sa bandang tainga at leeg niya. Hindi pa siya nakakilos noong lumapat sa bewang niya ang mainit at malaking palad nito. "S-ir," kabado niyang bigkas. "Single?" imbis ay tanong nito kaya mabilis siyang tumango. "Good. Birhen?" sunod na tanong nito kaya nanlaki ang mga mata niya. Hindi siya makasagot. Sasabihin ba niyang may anak na siya at kambal pa? Baka hindi siya nito tanggapin! "Y-es, Sir," pagsisinungaling niya. Marahas itong huminga na tila nahihirapan at nagpipigil. Napaangat nang bahagya ang balikat niya noong tumama doon ang matangos nitong ilong na tila inaamoy siya. Nakiliti pa siya sa mabalbas nitong pangang na humagod sa balat niya. "Perfect for me," halos dumikit pa ang labi nito sa paos nitong bulong kasabay ng pagdiin ng palad nito sa kanyang bewang na tila gusto na siyang sunggaban. Hindi niya alam na kanina pa niya pigil ang paghinga kung hindi lang ito lumayo. "Ikukuha kita ng dress. We'll attend an event," pinal na sambit nito kaya namilog ang mga mata niya. "Po? Sir, hindi po pwedeโ" Mas namilog ang mga niya noong tumama sa mga labi niya ang hintuturo nito upang patigilan siya. "Shhh. Sasama ka. You're now my secretary. Kung nasaan ako, doon ka." madiing sagot nito na akala mo ay hindi iyon big deal. Hindi siya makareklamo. Paglabas ng opisina nito ay gusto niyang ibalik ang cheque. Tinawagan niya rin si Miss Melia. "Hindi ka pwedeng umatras, Lorelei. Lagyan mo limang milyon iyang cheque niya para makabawi ka kung gusto mo. Kumpara sa mga nauna sa'yo, mas pabor si Sir Hector sa'yo. Mag-enjoy ka na lang sa event, Hija." Napirmi ang mga labi niya. Dapat pala pinag-isipan niyang mabuti. Napilitan tuloy siyang mag-ayos. Hindi pa siya kumportable sa baby blue cocktail dress na inorder nito. Yukong-yuko siya noong titigan nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya matapos masulyapan ang madiing titig nito. Para tuloy siyang hindi makahinga sa paninitig nito. Pakiramdam niya ay hinuhubaran na siya nito sa isip pa lang. "Chin up. You look... gorgeous," mahinang papuri nito. Sinubukan nitong hawakan ang bewang niya ngunit umiwas siya. Hilaw siyang ngumiti. "Alis na po tayo para agad makabalik, Sir." Nauna pa siya sa harap ng sasakyan nito. Nanliliit ang tingin nito noong pagbuksan siya ng pinto. Mali ba na umiwas dito? Boss niya ito at mali na magustuhan siya nito. Umikot ito sa driver seat noong makaupo na siya. Namroblema pa siya paano aayusin ang seatbelt ngunit nahigit niya ang hininga noong ito mismo ang umagaw sa seatbelt niya at nag-ayos no'n. Nasamyo niya tuloy ang matapang nitong pabango na may halong lemon. Akala pa niya ay ang air freshener pero hindi, amoy lemon talaga ito at masarap sa ilong. Maliit itong nangunguso noong paandarin ang sasakyan. Umiiwas siya ng tingin dito. Kumakalabog ang dibdib niya ngayong nasa isang sasakyan lang sila. Kinipkip niya pa ang bag sa mga hantad niyang hita. "How old are you, Lorelei?" biglang tanong nito na muntik magpatalon sa kanya sa upuan. "T-wenty five, Sir." "Hm. Never been touched? Never been kissed? And of course, never... Am I right?" senswal at bulgar nitong tanong. Tumiim bagang siya. Alam na niya ang kalibre nito kung bakit gusto nito ng Birhen. Sigurado siyang marami na rin itong naikama at delikado siya kung hindi siya mag-iingat. "I'm not comfortable with tbose questions, Sir," pag-amin niya. Hindi ito kumibo. Nasilip niya ang pagsasalubong ng kilay nito. Nakasandal na nga ang siko nito sa bintana at pinaglalaruan ng mga daliri nito ang ibabang labi nito. Isang kamay lang ang gamit nitong pagdrive. Nakarolyo ang asul na manggas ng longsleeve at ang lakas manampal ng kayamanan ng mamahaling relo nito. "Would you like to pretend to be my girlfriend?" biglang tanong nito sa kawalan. "Po?" Umigting ang panga nito, "My ex will be there with her new boytoy. Ayoko talagang magpunta na mag-isa, but I have to show up. It's business related. Ipapakilala kitang bagong girlfriend ko. Don't worry, I'll pay you for this," paliwanag nito. "Pero, Sirโ" "Just this once, Kitty. After this, you can be just my plain secretary." Napakurap siya at napalinga pa sa backseat kung sino ang tinawag nitong Kitty. "Cute, Kitten," nangingising sambit nito sa reaksyon niya. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Walanghiya! Siya pala ang pusa! Wala rin siyang nagawa noong pagdating nila sa event ay ito mismo ang nag-ayos sa braso niya pakapit sa braso nito. "Just stay beside me, Kitty. Smile as if you are head over heels for me," nakangising paalala nito. Sa dami ng mga bigating tao ay naging peke ang ngiti niya. Sa isang pabilog silang mesa napunta at naupo. Ramdam niya agad ang titig ng isang babae sa kanya na tila gusto siyang patumbahin. "Oh gosh, you got a new girl, Hector. I'm happy for you, Hijo. Hindi sana magloko katulad ng nauna," ani ng isang Ginang na bobo kay Sir Hector. Tumabingi ang ngiti niya habang ang babaeng nakatitig sa kanya ay umirap. Humilig pa ito sa braso ng lalaking katabi. "We should go home early, Babe. Bawal magpuyat ang buntis," dinig niyang bulong nito sa lalaki. Ramdam niya ang paninigas ng katawan ni Hector at kahit nakangiti ito sa mga kausap ay pansin naman niya ang panaka-nakang pag-igting ng panga nito. "Alejandro and I are having a baby boy, Mrs. Sarmiento," dinig niyang sagot ng babae matapos itong tanungin sa pinagbubuntis. Hindi na nga niya ito nilingon bagkus ay natutok ang titig niya kay Hector na naging sunod-sunod ang inom ng alak. Hindi siya nakatiis at inagaw ang brandy na hawak nito at ininom iyon. "What are you doing?" bulong na tanong nito. "Hindi ka pwedeng malasing. Magda-drive ka pa," madiing bulong niya pabalik. Lumapit ito at nagtaasan ang mga balahibo niya noong dumikit ang ilong nito sa leeg niya. "My Kitty is concern," namamaos nitong bulong kasabay pa ng pagdapo ng mainit nitong palad sa hita niya. Ginalaw niya ang hita ngunit dumiin ang kapit nito. Wala tuloy sa sariling napainom siya ng alak. "Crizaa, come back here!" Nabaling ang atensyon niya sa lalaking Alejandro yata ang pangalan. Tinatawag nito ang babaeng masama ang titig sa kanya na nag-walk out ngayon lang. Doon lang nawala sa hita niya ang palad ni Hector. Lumagok pa ito ng alak bago tumayo. "Comfort room," paalam nito pero ang titig ay nasa babaeng papalayo. Hindi niya alam kung bakit nadismaya siyang sinundan nito ang babae. Umiwas na lang siya ng tingin at tahimik na uminom. "Ngayon lang kita nakita, Hija. Gaano na kayo katagal ni Hector? Anim na buwan pa lang naman kasi silang hiwalay ni Crizaa," baling sa kanya ng Ginang kanina. Hilaw siyang napangiti, "Three months po," pagsisinungaling niya. Napatango ito. Mabuti na lang at hindi na ito nagtanong muli dahil hindi na niya alam ang isasagot. Nakuha niyang makaubos ng alak ay hindi na bumalik si Hector. Nahihilo na nga siya noong magpunta sa parking lot para doon ito hintayin. Saktong kapapadala niya ng mensahe sa kapitbahay niyang si Ria para tingnan ang kambal noong mamataan si Hector. Napatuwid siya ng tayo noong makita na itong papalapit. Halatang galit kaya hindi na siya nagtanong. Agad na lang siyang pumasok sa sasakyan noong patunugin nito. Maging sa biyahe ay ramdam niya ang galit nito sa hindi malamang dahilan. Madiin ang hawak nito sa manibela. Isa lang ang sigurado niya. Nakausap nito si Crizaa at tiyak na nabigo ito lalo't noong pagdating nila sa bahay nito ay kitang-kita niya ang bumagsak na luha sa gilid ng mga mata nito. Nahabag siya dito, "Sirโ" "Go home, or if you want, you can sleep in one of the guestrooms. Thank you for today, Lorelei," pagtataboy nito sa kanya. Hindi niya alam kung dahil lang sa kalasingan kaya hindi niya ito maiwan. Naaawa siya rito. Agad siyang kumuha ng tissue, lumuhod sa upuan at inabot ang pisngi nito. Pareho pa silang natigilan noong hawakan nito ang kamay niya. "Don't. I'm not weak," pamimilit nito. Naamoy niya ang brandy sa hininga nito at sa malamang ay pareho lang silang may tama ng alak. Napalunok siya noong matitigan ang mga mata nitong dumilim. Balewala niyang pinunasan muli ang pisngi nito ngunit muli nitong pinigilan ang kamay niya. "S-irโ" "If you keep doing that, sa kama tayo babagsak. Umuwi ka bago pa magbago ang isip ko at ipinid ka sa kama," pagbabanta nito. May choice siya, pinapatakas siya nito pero ang katawan niya ay ayaw kumilos. Baka dahil lasing siya. "Pagbilang ko ng lima, lumabas ka na ng sasakyan. I have no mercy when it comes to bed, Kitten," mabigat na bulong nito. Nanuyo ang lalamunan niya at mas lalong hindi nakakilos. "One," pagsisimula nito, nagsimula rin ang mainit nitong palad na umakyat sa hita niya. "Two, get out, Kitty," sobrang paos na sambit na nito habang ang kamay ay nahanap ang garter ng underwear niya. "P-ero, Sirโ" "Five. Pagmumura pa nito bago hatakin ang bewang niya at siilin siya ng halik. Mabilis nitong hinila ang bewang niya at pinaupo siya sa kandungan nito. Nahatak niya ang longsleeve nito matapos nitong ipasok ang dila sa bibig niya habang ang palad nito ay nahatak paalis ang underwear niya. Nahanap ng palad nito ang pagkababae niya at diniin ang daliri doon na kinasinghap niya. Hindi siya makasabay sa halik nito. Naliliyo siya maging sa paghagod ng mga daliri nito sa pagkababae niya. Nanigas ang mga tuhod niya sa kiliti sa puson niya at pamamasa. Hindi siya makahinga nang maayos. Inayos ng isang palad nito ang mga hita niya at pinwesto sa bawat gilid nito. Marahan itong dumukwang at halos isandal siya sa manibela masiil lang siya ng halik muli. Tuluyan na siyang hindi nakasagot ng halik matapos naging mabilis ang hagod ng mga daliri nito sa kanyang ibaba. Napapasinghap siya at ang maiksing katinuhan sa utak niya ay nasakop na ng impluwensya ng alak. "Ahh!" mahinang halinghing niya noong bumaba ang mga labi nito sa panga niya. "I'm giving you another chance to run. Run, Lorelei," udyok na bulong nito kahit pa binababa na nito ang zipper ng dress na suot niya. Napapikit siya. Tumatahip ang dibdib niya sa sobrang init. Bumakas sa mukha niya ang bahagyang ngiwi noong dumausdos papasok ang isang daliri nito. "Not running away? Baka di ka na makalakad bukas. I'm telling you, I'm big," paos at mabigat muli nitong bulong na tila nagtitimpi. Hindi niya alam ngunit lalo siyang namasa sa boses nito. Doon nga lang nag-sink sa kanya na kapag natuloy sila, malalaman nitong hindi na siya Birhen. Mabilis siyang napamulat sa naisip. Balak niya sana itong itulak ngunit paghigit sa damit nito ang nagawa niya noong dumagdag ang daliri nito sa loob niya at sunod-sunod na umulos. "Lintik" hingal niyang pagmumura. Paano pa siya tatakbo kung ang titig nito sa kanya ay nanlalapa? Maalab at alam niyang hindi na ito mapipigilan. Nagawa nitong alisin ang bestida niya. Nailiyad niya pa ang dibdib ngunit agad na sinakop ng mainit nitong bibig ang isa at halos ubusin nito. Nahatak niya ang braso nito upang doon kumuha ng balanse. hubad na siya lahat habang ito ay kumpleto pa ang suot. Pati ang relo sa bisig nito ay naroon pa. "Uhhhh, S-ir!" hiyaw niya noong lalong bumilis ang mga daliri nito sa loob niya. Hindi niya una iyon pero may hapdi pa rin sa kabila ng sensasyong nararamdaman niya. Bumalik tuloy ang alaala niya kung paano nabuo ang kambal niyang anak. Kagaya ni Sir Hector ang lalaki, may kalakihan ang katawan. Ang pinagkaiba lang ay may rahas ang kilos ni Sir Hector. Naitaas niya ang tuhod noong mamilipit sa sarap ang puson niya. Mahabang ungol ang kumawala sa bibig niya matapos maramdaman ang pag-abot niya sa rurok. Hindi tumigil ang mga daliri nito sa pag-ulos ngunit pinakawalan ng bibig nito ang dibdib niya. Naghahabol siya ng hininga noong nilayuan nito ang leeg niya at dibdib. Wala sa sariling nakagat niya pa ang ibabang labi sa paghugot nito sa mga daliri nito. Gulantang nga lang siyang makitang sisubo nito ang mga iyon. "Sir!" pigil niya dito ngunit wala na, napapikit na ito sa pagsubo no'n. Agad pang ngumisi at bahagyang pumasada ang dila sa ibabang labi nito na tila hindi pa ito kuntento. "Addictive," sobrang paos na sambit nito. Nag-init ang mga pisngi niya. Alam niyang may tama rin ito sa alak kaya nasabi iyon pero hiyang-hiya siya! Hindi pa siya nakababawi noong marinig ang pagbukas nito sa pinto. Napalunok siya at napakapit sa mga balikat nito noong buhatin siya sa ganoong ayos. Inikot pa nito ang mga hita niya sa bewang nito. "You're Birhen. This will hurt. Hindi pwede sa sasakyan. Saka na... kapag sanay ka na," namimigat nitong bulong na nagpatigil sa paghinga niya. Kumalabog ang dibdib niya. Dumiin ang kapit sa balikat nito noong pumasok ito sa bahay at iakyat siya sa kwarto. Marahan pa siya nitong binagsak sa kama ngunit mabilis na lumuhod sa sahig. Sumisinghap pa lang siya ng paghinga ay pinag-hiwalay na nito ang mga hita niya at agad na sinubsob ang bibig nito sa pagkababae niya. "Sir! Uhโohh!" Pinatigas agad nito ang dila at tinukso-tukso siya. Alam na alam nito ang gagawin. Nawala na nga sa isip niyang hindi pa siya nakapag-shave pero kung hagurin ng dila nito ang ibaba niya ay tila paboritong pagkain nito iyon. "Ahh!" Nailiyad niya ang katawan at naitaas ang bewang na mabilis nitong hinila upang mas maidiin ang bibig nito doon. Ang ngipin nito ay sumasabay kaya halos mahila na niya nang buo ang bedsheet sa nararamdamang init. Pinagpawisan na siya kahit pa malakas ang aircon sa kwarto nito. Hindi yata ito tumigil hangga't hindi naririnig ang mahabang ungol niya, senyales na muli niyang naabot ang langit. Hindi niya maisara ang bibig sa pagsimot nito doon. Kahit noong tumayo na ito ay nanghihina siya at hindi maisara ang mga hita niya. Maliit niyang minulat ang mga mata. Huli niya ang mainit nitong titig sa katawan niya habang nagtatanggal ng kasuotan. Pati mamahaling relo nito ay basta lang nito tinapon sa sofa. Ora mimso noong mahubad nito ang mamahaling boxer short ay gumapang ito sa itaas niya. "Ibuka ang iyong mga binti nang mas malawak, Kitty," senswal nitong utos. Kumakalabog lalo ang dibdib niya at nanunuyo ang lalamunan kahit pa sa hita pa lang niya dumikit ang naghuhumigting nitong sandata. Palad na mismo nito ang humagod sa mga hita niya at mas pinaghiwalay ang mga iyon. Napapikit siya noong tuluyang tumama ang sandata nito sa kaselanan niya. Paulit-ulit na humagod na tila tinutukso siya. Pati ang ilong at bibig nito ay panaka-nakang humalik sa leeg at panga niya na tila dinidistract siya nito. "Sir~" hirap niyang bulong at napakapit sa matigas nitong braso noong maramdaman ang dulo ng sandata nito. Tama ito! Malaki ito at duda siyang kakasya sa kanya. Baka muli lang siyang mapunit nito! Ang balak niyang pagtulak sana dito ay nauwi sa pagkapit sa braso nito noong pilitin nito ang pagpasok. Sumigid ang sakit sa kanya at halos magdugo ang labi sa pagkagat niya. Iyon ang pangalawang beses niya pero sa tagal na siguro ng panahon ay pakiramdam niya, unang beses pa lang niya iyon. Kita niyang umigting ang panga nito at tumalim ang tingin. Kinabahan siyang baka nahuli na siya nito pero nahanap nito ang mga palad niya at parehong pininid sa itaas ng ulo niya. Pinagsalikop nito ang mga kamay nila bago sinagad ang pagpasok na kinahiyaw niya. "Ahh!" Hindi niya ito mapalo, hindi niya mabawi ang mga nakapinid na kamay. Pinuno naman nito ng halik ang mukha niya. "Soon, the pain will fade away, Kitty," panunuyong bulong nito. Hindi na niya makilala ang sariling paghinga. Hinayaan siya nitong kumalma ngunit hindi rin ito nakatiis at nagsimulang umulos nang mabagal. Dinidiinan na lang niya ang kapit sa mga kamay nito kapag sinasagad nito nang buo sa loob niya. Dinig niya ang magaspang nitong ungol at tila nahihirapan ding bumayo sa loob niya. Para itong nagtitimpi sa mabagal na paggalaw. "H-indi ka gumamit ng goma, Sir," wala sa sariling sambit niya. "Doesn't matter. I will do withdrawal, don't worry," pagpapakalma nito. Ilang beses siyang lumunok. Ang balakang niya ay napapataas noong bumilis nang bahagya ang galaw nito. Malinaw sa pandinig niya ang pagsusumpungan ng mga kaselanan nila. Nangangalay ang mga hita niya sa pagkakahiwalay at halos lumubog sa kama sa laki ng katawan nito. "Ow!" malakas niyang hiyaw na hindi niya alam kung ilang beses niya naisigaw noong dumoble ang bilis nito. Para itomg may hinahabol at hindi magkamayaw. Ang kama nito ay tumutunog kasabay ng tunog ng kanilang mga katawan. Para itong nawala sa sarili at nagsunod-sunod ang pagbayo sa loob niya. Naghalo ang pawis nila at maging mga ungol. Napuno ang kwarto ng mga hiyaw niya. Nanghihina na siya noong maramdamang malapit na siya. Nagmadali rin ito at sunod sunod ang ulos hanggang sa magkapanabay silang mapaungol. Pinakawalan nito ang mga kamay niya kasabay ng mainit na likidong bumuhos sa loob niya. Parang tumigil ang tibok ng puso niya. Sa loob nito pinutok! Kinabahan siya. Hinihingal itong bumagsak sa itaas niya. "Sleep, Kitty," inaantok pa nitong bulong. Nataranta siya at gusto itong itulak ngunit napakalaki nito. Sumiksik pa ito sa dibdib niya at wala yatang pakialam kahit nasa loob pa niya ang sandata nito! "Sir, uuwi po ako," pilit niyang gising at tulak dito ngunit humigpit ang yakap nito sa bewang niya. "Later, stay still. Huwag kang gagalaw. Huwag mong gisingin," halos bulong na lang na sambit nito. Nanlamig siya sa tinutukoy nito. Pati tuloy paghinga niya ay napigilan niya huwag lang magising ang sandata nito. Para siyang timang na naghintay na humiwalay ito ngunit hindi niya rin namalayang nakatulog na siya. Paggising ay sikat ng araw ang tumama sa mga mata niya. Nasilaw siya at nahirapang magmulat ng mga mata. Masakit ang katawan niya, partikular ang pagkababae niya at mga hita. Doon nga lang din rumehistro sa kanya ang nangyari kagabi. "Punyeta!" napamura siya matapos matantong umaga na pero naroon pa rin siya sa kwarto ni Sir Hector. Mabilis niyang nilingon ang katabi ngunit wala na ito doon. Hindi na nga niya maalala kung ano'ng oras ito umalis sa itaas niya. Hihinga na sana siya nang maluwag kung hindi lang naramdaman ang madiing titig sa kanya na tumatagos sa balat niya. Napalunok siya at unti-unting napatingin sa harap niya. Sumikdo ang dibdib niya at nahila ang kumot. Naroon sa paanan niya si Sir Hector, nakaayos na ng business suit, nakapamulsa habang may hawak na baso ng brandy. Pinaghalong madiin at malamig na titig ang natanggap niya dito at noong liningon nito ang kama na walang bahid ng dugo, alam na niya agad ang nasa isip nito. "S-ir, m-agpapaliwanag po ako," sobrang kabang sambit niya lalo't tumalim ang titig nito at umigting ang panga. | Philip Spicy Reading | 83301 | https://www.facebook.com/61561349855790/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679720 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/15/25, 12:01 AM | 1738567643 | 1749963716 | 2451 | www.medicalspapromos.com | Learn more | VIDEO | ๐ชTransform Your Face & Body with Our Rejuvenation Treatments | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/nosweat-fort-wayne-04-optin | 4.8044227515946E+14 | NoSweat Fort Wayne IN | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474632310_586790343943217_7392540755483093521_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0_V73uMHgMUQ7kNvgFk4PZQ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A8H35E_EYNFn3WspLX65ljl&oh=00_AYD4MrQQ7aeDVCvwnqowIJ_f2-IaHf1gb-FtzewcMspguw&oe=67A64268 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ฃ ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐๐ค๐ง๐ฉ ๐๐๐ฎ๐ฃ๐ & ๐๐ช๐ง๐ง๐ค๐ช๐ฃ๐๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ผ๐ง๐๐๐จ! ๐ Say goodbye to saggy skin and hello to a more youthful look! ๐ โ Our personalized treatments can lift, tighten, and enhance the face and body, all while being safe and non-invasive! ๐โโ๏ธ ๐ฐ For a limited time only, claim a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards our most popular ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป treatment packages, including: ๐ ๐ฆ๐ธ๐ถ๐ป ๐ง๐ถ๐ด๐ต๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Non-surgical treatments that firm and tighten excess skin caused by aging or weight loss on the face and body! ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Reduce stubborn fat without the risks and downtime of surgery! ๐ ๐ฅ๐ ๐ฆ๐ธ๐ถ๐ป ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐๐๐ฟ๐ณ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Counteracts years of sun damage, acne scarring, stretch marks and large pores as it visibly removes fine lines! Safe for all skin tones, treats all areas with minimal downtime! ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ฎ๐ถ๐ฟ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐บ๐ผ๐๐ฎ๐น ($๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Gently & permanently reduce or remove hair from any area of the body! ๐ ๐๐บ๐๐ฒ๐น๐น๐ฎ ($๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): First device of its kind that is FDA-cleared to strengthen the pelvic floor, improve bladder control & enhance intimacy for both men and women! ๐ฉโโ๏ธ Here at ๐ก๐ผ๐ฆ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ ๐ช๐ฎ๐๐ป๐ฒ Our experienced team works to create a treatment plan tailored to each individual's unique needs and budget. Don't wait!! Request a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ท๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ now and take the first step towards a more confident you! ๐ฏ Click [LEARN MORE] to claim the offer! ๐ | NoSweat Fort Wayne IN | 19 | https://www.facebook.com/61571194635654/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679766 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/4/25, 7:56 AM | 1738567646 | 1749041778 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | VIDEO | Plumbing Repairs: Starting at $59 | Locally Owned | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474479183_500823543051316_4067288259421313220_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RO8mG-KX7IAQ7kNvgFRpO3c&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYBbH_I-NKWemva-hFaoeIhqt-PyYQN7w_HyfJCikCWmEA&oe=67A6338C | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi there, I'm Raymundo, owner of High Mile Plumber! Do you really want to mess with your plumbing? No! leave it to the professionals. ๐จโ๐ง ๐ฏ Contact us ASAP if you have the following: โ ๏ธ Water Stains/Damage ๐คฎ Foul Odors Near Drains ๐จUnusual Noises in Pipes ๐ช Slow Draining or Clogs ๐ As a local business with over 15 years in the community, we're dedicated to ensuring everything flows smoothly for our neighbors. That's why we're offering plumbing services starting as low as $59! ๐ฐ๐ค Contact us to get your free quote! ๐ Proudly Serving Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, Thornton, Westminster & nearby areas. | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679729 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/4/25, 9:41 PM | 1738567644 | 1749091289 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | VIDEO | Plumbing Repairs: Starting at $59 | Locally Owned | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473540026_1313221666665637_6523872640430575094_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JoXEWI0z1MUQ7kNvgGIsfhA&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A_PLOVjPLwIDgJMtVuAUWeR&oh=00_AYB4mPJzTYmvwxwZ7T9xwbCR6tv4rErX_ek8g2t7ruAvrw&oe=67A624E4 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi there, I'm Raymundo, owner of High Mile Plumber! Do you really want to mess with your plumbing? No! leave it to the professionals. ๐จโ๐ง ๐ฏ Contact us ASAP if you have the following: โ ๏ธ Water Stains/Damage ๐คฎ Foul Odors Near Drains ๐จUnusual Noises in Pipes ๐ช Slow Draining or Clogs ๐ As a local business with over 15 years in the community, we're dedicated to ensuring everything flows smoothly for our neighbors. That's why we're offering plumbing services starting as low as $59! ๐ฐ๐ค Contact us to get your free quote! ๐ Proudly Serving Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, Thornton, Westminster & nearby areas. | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679549 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 1:03 AM | 1738567623 | 1749103409 | 2451 | brainway.app | Learn more | VIDEO | Overcome Procrastination Naturally | https://brainway.app/start?qz=pro1&locale=EN_US | 1.4257913226241E+14 | Brainway App | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465787963_1278749433032612_1905073517952391227_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p1Y9ep-kdjEQ7kNvgEfdXUr&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=Ahwzl0UTsLfgbAPqFjVPpJI&oh=00_AYDcq5DL8k0jI23plViXz18exQh1z4N2siWAqWWBKCy6hA&oe=67A65898 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | Overcoming procrastination doesnโt have to be hard! Created by a team of psychologists and behavioral change experts, Brainway is designed to: 1๏ธโฃ Identify your unique โProcrastination Typeโ 2๏ธโฃ Reveal the unique โTrigger Pointโ that makes you procrastinate 3๏ธโฃ Provide personalized, simple, and effective strategies to help you stop putting things off ๐ And let you join thousands of people enjoying 100% stress-free productivity with Brainway! ๐ฅ Take a short quiz and see how Brainway can help you break free from procrastination & embrace your natural productivity today!๐ | Brainway App | 23369 | https://www.facebook.com/61551442591062/ | 0 | LEARN_MORE | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2679813 | 1 | active | 2/3/25, 1:27 AM | 6/5/25, 2:45 AM | 1738567648 | 1749109551 | 2451 | fb.me | Get quote | VIDEO | Tree Removal: Starting at $249 | http://fb.me/ | 5.1206123865782E+14 | Voolt Certified Service Provider | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/472950935_962784249081050_4965336032906315446_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A6RufbMr06cQ7kNvgFaxrDc&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A0UizQVYq1N1J-GrtojRtHK&oh=00_AYDbj8Yarz0YmDlib-EqeW_G4O8OoHtwDr__z0hHoNdPLQ&oe=67A65B6D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | ๐ Hi, I'm Douglas, owner of Royal Tree Removal. ๐จ Dead, Dying or Oversized Trees can be extremely dangerous due to the high risk of branches - or the tree itself - falling. Sometimes trees obstruct views or prevent construction. ๐ช My team of technicians is here to assess your property, then safely remove unwanted trees. ๐ We're locally owned & dedicated to our community which is why we're offering tree removal for as low as $249. ๐ Proudly serving Las Vegas, Paradise, Sunrise Manor, Spring Valley, Enterprise & surrounding areas. Book your free quote! | Voolt Certified Service Provider | 69 | https://www.facebook.com/61571038885556/ | 0 | GET_QUOTE | View Edit Delete |