Related Ads

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
2683876	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/24/25, 10:33 AM	1739147228	1745508838		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			IMAGE	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=16865&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}}			2.1900405462262E+14	Galaxy in the Story	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471436633_1111178080715589_6348095694429870959_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7jtOw7mNaggQ7kNvgFgX08i&_nc_oc=AdgchTl9Lz7lj_vpMC1wEZOqn_y1rGi_tMNFJBSAqmcCILSgNt2j-FN1lPfGZUXsbOxmWYm5VvsEFSt6F3EPc5T8&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A3mtVq559KOsUgHmBinDUrk&oh=00_AYAvSKH8_0HsXjeG7D2MYp7_sfdUjqMS9p7blixd60RVuw&oe=67AF1853	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		My husband Killian arrived late after my grandmother's funeral because he needed to be there for his first love. He looked like he ran in his wolf form. His hair is a mess, and his tie is not even tied properly. He was breathing so fast that he couldn’t even speak. My face turned blank as I locked gazes with him. “Astrid, I couldn’t leave early because I had something I needed to take care of.” My fists balled up at my sides as I narrowed my eyes at him. “Was there anything else more important than to be on your mate’s side at the time that she needed you the most?” I shot back at him. His eyes met mine and for a fleeting moment, a shadow of remorse flickered across his gaze “If only you hadn’t stopped me that night, I would have still met my grandma while she was still alive.” Killian’s grip on the bouquet tightened when he heard my words. “I had no idea I—“ “I kept telling you that my grandmother needed me!” I yelled, interrupting him from his words. “All you cared about is Giselle who is pre9nant with your child.” I blurted out finally releasing all the emotions that I have buried down long enough. Killian could not say a word. My heart which has always been heavy, felt lighter than it was after I finally told him the things that I’ve been wanting to tell him. I glanced at him in surprise when he suddenly crouched down and placed the bouquet of flowers that he brought on the ground where my grandmother had just been buried. “I only came here to pay my respects to your grandmother. I’m sorry if I was late, that was out of my control,” Killian replied like he didn’t just hear the rest of the words that I said. My breath turned shallow and my heart burned more in anger at his heartlessness. Unable to control myself anymore, I picked up the flowers and thrashed them on Killian until the flowers were all shredded into pieces. “You are here to pay respect?!” I screamed at him. I threw what was left of the flowers to the ground. “I’m tired of this. If you can’t give me respect, I should at least give myself some respect,” I spoke in a weak voice as I collected myself together. “Let’s just stop this joke and get a divorce,” I spoke firmly, looking at Killian directly in his eyes.		Galaxy in the Story		2320	https://www.facebook.com/61555427913037/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683894	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/24/25, 6:16 PM	1739147232	1745536618		2524																										heplk.com	Learn more			IMAGE	ここをクリックして無料でお読みください！		https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&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}}			3.1105348876231E+14	女の子が読みたい小説を大特集	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474595516_967527748079888_8861809200318238964_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mZXJBfvJvPUQ7kNvgGJhJ71&_nc_oc=AdiFTVsvenzam-P_x1YCVZ7eoXrfo-DiWGnJkDJIhJtu3LeQpLRB7waIzQ-TeRZ0-XX-j50jXx-_ra9lGj1QjmcP&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYDGW4NRQglnVDqjwLD1Ye486eWnhpHpXENxw542EltnOw&oe=67AF0783	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		高橋優子が末期癌と診断されたその日、夫の佐藤峻介は、初恋の相手の子供の世話をしていた。 ... 病院で、中村悠斗が渋い顔で言った。「優子さん、手術が成功すれば、生存率は15%から30%になる。」 優子はかばんのひもを細い指でぎゅっと握りしめ、青ざめた小さな顔に深い陰りを浮かべていた。 「先輩、もし手術を受けなければ、どのくらい生きられるの？」 「半年から1年ぐらい。」 優子は唇をぎゅっと噛みしめ、やっと言葉を吐き出した。「先輩、このことは秘密にしてちょうだい。家族を心配させたくないの。」 高橋家はすでに破産しており、優子は父親の医療費を工面するだけでも精一杯だった。 悠斗は諦めたように言った。「口外しないよ。でも、結婚していると聞いた。旦那さん――」 「お父さんのことはお願いね。もう行かないと。」優子は夫の話題を避けるように、早々にその場を立ち去った。 父親の治療が始まってからの2年間、夫である佐藤峻介は一度も姿を見せたことがなかった。彼女が倒れて通行人に病院へ運ばれた時でさえもだ。 かつては彼も優子を大切にしていた。だが、初恋の相手である松本里美が妊娠した状態で帰国してから、すべてが変わった。 優子もかつて妊娠していたことがあった。ある日、湖で松本里美とともに落水した時、必死にもがきながら、彼が里美に向かって泳いでいく姿を見た。 後、里美は無事に子どもを産んだ。でも優子は母親になる機会を奪われた。 7日後、峻介は離婚を求めたが、彼女は拒否した。 だが、病気のことを知った今、彼女は震える手で彼の電話をかけた。 3回目のコールでつながると、彼の冷たい声が聞こえてきた。「離婚以外の用件なら、お前に会う気はない。」 優子は涙をこらえ、癌の話を切り出すことができなかった。すると電話の向こうから里美の声が聞こえてきた。「峻介君、そろそろ赤ちゃんの定期検査よ。」 その瞬間、こらえていた涙が一気に溢れ出した。すべてを終わらせる時が来たのだ。 優子はこ震える声で、絞り出すようにぽつりと呟いた。「峻介……もう、離婚しよう。」 峻介は一瞬、驚いたようだったが、冷笑して言った。「優子、今度はどんな手を使うつもりだ？」 「家で待ってるから。」 峻介は、電話が突然切られた後、呆然とスマホを見つめていた。 一年間拒否し続けてきた優子が、なぜ今急に同意したのだろう？ 彼女に会いに行くことを決めた。 「峻介、どこに行くのよ？」里美が子どもを抱えながら追いかけてきた。 しかし、彼は何も言わず立ち去った。その瞬間、里美の優しい表情はみるみるうちに恐ろしいほど暗くなった。 あの女……また何か仕掛けてきたわね！ 玄関のドアが開いたとき、優子はテーブルのそばに立っているスーツを着た背が高い男性を見た。整った顔立ちは氷のように冷たく、その暗い瞳には優子への軽蔑が浮かんでいた。 「どこに行ってたんだ？」峻介が冷たく尋ねた。 「そんなことはいつから気にするの？」 「離婚届にサインしてもらう必要がある。」 その言葉は鋭い針のように彼女の心を刺した。濡れた体を引きずりながら、彼女はカバンから書類を静かに取り出した。 「心配する必要がない。もうサイン済みだ。」 彼女が書類をテーブルの上に置いたとき、峻介は「離婚」という二文字がこれほどまでに不愉快に思えたことはなかった。優子が唯一要求したのは、2億円の慰謝料だった。 「どうして急に同意したのかと思ったら、結局金のためか。」彼の顔が嘲笑を浮かべた。 かつてなら、自分を弁護するかもしれない。でも、今彼女はただ静かに言った。「本来なら、佐藤さんの資産の半分を請求する権利があるわ。でも、私は2億円しか要求しなかった。これでも、まだ情けをかけてるつもりよ。」 峻介は一歩前に進み、長い影が優子を覆った。彼は彼女の顎を細長い指で掴み、冷たい声で言った。「今、何て呼んだ？」 「佐藤さん、もしこの呼び方が嫌なら、元夫と呼び直してもいいわよ。さあ、書類にサインして帰ってもらっていい？」 彼は不愉快そうな顔をした。「ここは俺の家だ。出て行けと言う権利はお前にはあるかい。」 優子は皮肉げに微笑み、言った。「確かに、その権利はないわ。でも、安心して、佐藤さん。離婚証明書を受け取ったら、すぐに出て行く。」 また、彼の手を振り払い、冷たい目で彼を見つめた。「明日の朝9時、市役所で書類を持ってきてください。」 翌朝、日の出前には優子は出発しようとした時、病院から電話がかかってきた。「高橋さん、お父さんが心臓発作を起こしました。」 「えっ？すぐ向かいます！」 病院に到着すると、手術はまだ続いていた。 今、唯一の希望は父が健康で生き続けることだけだった。 看護師が手術費用の請求書を手渡してきた。総額は300万円以上。 でも、以前支払った入院費で残金はたったの10万円。どうしても足りなかった。 仕方なく、峻介に電話をかけた。 冷たい声が聞こえる。「どこだ？もう30分待っている。」 「急なことがあって――」 「優子、これでおもしろい？」峻介が鼻で笑う。「どうせまた嘘をついているんだろう？」 そんな！ 「嘘じゃない！父が心臓発作を起こして手術が必要なの！――」 「それで、死んだのか？」峻介が遮った。 その言葉に、優子は耳を疑った。そんな言い方する人がいるのか？ 「いいえ！峻介、手術費が300万円以上かかるの。だから慰謝料を先に振り込んでくれない？必ず離婚するから！」 「優子、俺が誰よりも君の父親の死を望んでいることを理解しているよな。金を渡すのはいいだろう、でも手続きが終わった後にだ。」 それだけ言うと、電話は切られた。 優子の顔には困惑が浮かんでいた。かつて彼は父に対して敬意を払っていたはずだった。しかし、今の彼の声には本気の憎しみが滲んでいた。 なぜだ？ 2年前の高橋家の破産と結びつけて考えると、偶然の出来事とは思えなくなってきた。 もうしかして、峻介が裏で何かを仕掛けたのだ。しかし、実家は一体どうやって彼を怒らせてしまったのだろう？ 今、考え込む余裕もなく、父の治療費を何とかするのが最優先だった。 手術室の扉が開いた。「先生？」 「髙橋さん、お父様はなんとか持ちこたえました。」 優子はようやく胸を撫で下ろした。 介護人に父を任せ、市役所に急いだが、峻介はどこにもなかった。 焦て電話をかける。「市役所に着いたわ。どこにいるの？」 「事務室だ。」 「今すぐ離婚手続きを済ませに来てくれない？」 峻介は薄く笑って言った。「数億円の契約とお前、どっちが大事だと思う？」 「終わるまで待つから……峻介、お願い、今父はお金が必要なの。」 「もし死んだら、葬式代を出してやるよ。」それだけ言うと、彼は電話を切った。 再び電話をかけたが、すでに電源が切られた。 優子は息が詰まるような感覚に襲われた。 彼女はあっという間に全てを失ってしまった。 今、優子が持っている唯一の価値あるものは、結婚指輪だけだった。 彼女は指輪を外し、高級宝飾店に足を踏み入れた。 「お客様、購入時の領収書と証明書はお持ちですか？」 「はい。」優子は急いで書類を差し出した。 「ありがとうございます。指輪は検査に出す必要があるので、明日またご連絡させていただけますか。」 優子は切迫した声で言った。「急いでいるんです。今日中にお願いします。」 「はい。」店員が指輪を持ち去ろうとしたその時、ある白くて繊細な手が指輪ケースを押さえた。 「この指輪、とても素敵ね。私が買うわ。」 顔を上げた優子の目に飛び込んできたのは、彼女がこの世で最も憎んでいる人物――松本里美だった		女の子が読みたい小説を大特集		141	https://www.facebook.com/61559954921868/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683921	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	5/28/25, 6:24 AM	1739147237	1748431484		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473484676_7302758666515104_3754044721478569939_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gTpYnCRmMF8Q7kNvgGe2vIe&_nc_oc=Adh1jSYRyhTFUt4-PfxXzGLUNrhdu6aeDrBkSUIUt7fPNoO-hwvbRFtkZ_qoj6jpVKuw8-TV8ffMAbq9kCZnRYNY&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYAKQcXm85t0bvpO1z9N4KsVeB7e_gGsWlHCYPv0GX-grA&oe=67AF0C5D	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683914	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	5/28/25, 6:25 AM	1739147236	1748431540		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474533156_1592023184753005_3979663042369289110_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_9cCExxdnPwQ7kNvgHyvWJv&_nc_oc=Adj3Q3xYiOt7pkHBzER94_zrGMUuldIjpEOoeVH5zgLcpV2LsVoeg4cr6RcpFIBXB5YoSivkL37QIViizRWyzowS&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYC4Kb4l3sPGY9T5hw5xYbBpZLvhR7J5DeToNfvJT-AC6A&oe=67AF116F	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683906	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	5/28/25, 6:29 AM	1739147235	1748431775		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474657615_1699799980577741_6070380189204375105_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jmGADdaARscQ7kNvgFy-Xzx&_nc_oc=AdhHMWL0YBHMkJddFOBIi4371K7sOJJPbmvXPci_PqCNZ2KnrFLhzjqf_3IBdgmP9uV18jdb1LmYU1IvHtwG3Cwo&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYCPtsRUEMqk5W4JPncqTSe750GJyPDSzJBaa1DkpHM7rQ&oe=67AF15EA	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683908	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/24/25, 11:35 PM	1739147235	1745555736		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473961233_541214662275363_1005070507516237185_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fbu96tgLXnAQ7kNvgG-TCAN&_nc_oc=Adh6M-WKLk1OqtmMRM3Ag89vKDvtUAf9soyEZbCCwfpq-MhIfiEBB8Ub6Wl0UQE_RvEKTQtxGmt9FJoHqjQWRoG9&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYBmMnXm9k3U4sMn69NQWjxdof3n_hs2rexvSy4gL1-ezg&oe=67AF294B	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683888	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/24/25, 11:35 PM	1739147231	1745555738		2524																										operkn.com	Learn more			IMAGE	이곳을 클릭하고 무료로 읽어보세요!		https://operkn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11942&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}}			3.2362714083366E+14	남성 소설 모음	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476924291_589375090729596_5104809526341598714_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0W7RMCDb5tUQ7kNvgFYVxBu&_nc_oc=Adj_P6jsIeMt7PjQNVe9hP4oWqacVp_b510jvv24qQ_vVNKkJCB6vnZTn4DQ1rqz_luUe4K9r7rC5inkuAe9PUIR&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYBW7n5S-ZaJ_vplJ_a9R2_mK5GntS8ar-vBih7GWJqDKA&oe=67AF0FF1	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		때는 밤 11시. 형님 집 아래에 있는 공원에서 야간 러닝을 하던 중, 풀숲 속에서 들려오는 남녀의 바스락 소리가 들려왔다. “진동성, 설마 안 되는 거야? 집에서는 느낌 안 산다고 해서 여기까지 왔더니, 왜 아직도 안 돼?” ‘저거 우리 형수님 목소리 아니야?’ 나는 그 소리를 듣자마자 여자가 내 형수님 고태연이라는 걸 알아버렸다. ‘형과 형수는 밥 먹으러 간다고 했는데? 왜 공원 풀숲에 있는 거지?’ 여자 친구는 한 번도 안 사귀어 봤지만 동영상은 그래도 많이 봤다고 자부하기에, 나는 곧바로 두 사람이 무슨 짓을 하는지 알아버렸다. ‘형과 형수님이 이런 스릴을 좋아할 줄은 몰랐네. 그것도 공원에서.’ 순간 몰래 엿듣고 싶다는 생각을 참을 수 없었다. 형수는 얼굴도 예쁘장한데 몸매는 더 끝내준다. 그런 형수의 신음소리라니 이건 꿈에 그리던 일이었다. 살금살금 수풀 쪽으로 걸어가 몰래 머리를 내밀었더니 형수님이 형 위에 앉아 있었다. 물론 나를 등지고 있었지만 등 라인을 감탄할 수밖에 없었다. 순간 입이 바싹 마르고 아랫배에 열기가 올라왔다. 하지만 이렇게 매력적인 형수님 앞에서 형은 영 맥을 못 췄다. “태연아, 나 여전히 안 되는데.” 그 말에 형수가 버럭 화를 냈다. “약도 없네, 정말. 이제 고작 서른다섯이면서 왜 이렇게 쓸모가 없어? 안 서면 싸기라도 해야 할 거 아니야. 아무것도 없으면 애는 어떻게 가져? 계속 이러면 나 다른 사람 만난다? 당신은 애 싫을지 몰라도 나는 엄마가 되고 싶다고.” 잔뜩 화가 난 형수가 바지를 입고는 수풀 밖으로 걸어 나오자 놀란 나는 헐레벌떡 도망쳤다. 집에 돌아온 지 얼마 지나지 않아 형수가 돌아오는 소리가 들렸다. ‘쾅’ 닫히는 문소리에 내 가슴도 ‘철렁’ 내려앉았다. ‘깜짝 놀랐네. 형과 형수님 사이가 이렇게 안 좋을 줄이야.’ 나는 속으로 중얼거리며 가슴을 쓸어내렸다. 여자는 나이가 들수록 욕구가 많아진다더니 형수님도 욕구 불만인 게 틀림없었다. ‘하긴, 형처럼 비실비실한 몸으로 형수님을 어떻게 만족시키겠어? 나 정도는 돼야지.’ ‘퉤퉤퉤! 내가 지금 무슨 생각을 하는 거야? 고태연은 내 형수님이라고 어떻게 이런 생각을 할 수 있어?’ 물론 내가 진동성과 친형제는 아니지만 친형제 못지않게 끈끈한 사이다. 형이 아니었으면 내가 대학도 갈 수 없었을 거고. 내가 이런저런 생각에 잠겨 있을 때, 옆방에서 낮은 신음소리가 들려왔다. 얼른 귀를 벽에 대고 엿들어 봤더니 이건 틀림없이 신음이었다. ‘형수가 지금...’ 생각할수록 몸이 달아올라 도저히 참을 수 없어 나도 결국 바지 버클을 내렸다. 잠시 뒤, 벽 하나를 사이 두고 나와 형수의 신음 소리가 한데 섞였다. 영혼이 이어진 듯한 느낌에 나도 모르게 온갖 생각이 들었다. 형수가 나와 만났다면 얼마나 좋을까 하는 생각이 들어났다. 하지만 이건 절대 불가능한 일이다. 형수와 나 사이에는 영원히 넘을 수 없는 형이라는 존재가 있으니. 형한테 미안한 일은 할 수 없다. 더러워진 속옷을 대충 화장실에 두고 나는 내일 씻자는 생각으로 잠이 들었다. 이튿날, 잠에서 깨었을 때 시간은 벌써 9시가 넘었다. 형은 이미 출근했고 집에는 나와 형수 둘뿐이었다. 아침을 하는 형수는 실크로 된 나시 슬립을 입은 채로 굴곡진 몸매를 드러냈다. 특히 풍만한 가슴을 본 순간 입이 바싹 말랐다. “수호 씨, 일어났어요? 얼른 씻고 밥 먹어요.” 형수는 나를 보자마자 먼저 인사를 건넸다. 내가 이곳에 온 지는 아직 며칠 되지 않기에 형수와 아직 친해지지 못하여 많이 어색했다. 이에 나는 짤막하게 대답하고 곧장 화장실로 향했다. 그렇게 한창 씻던 그때, 갑자기 어제 벗어두었던 속옷이 내 뇌리를 스쳤다. ‘형수가 나보다 일찍 깨어났는데 설마 본 건 아니겠지?’ 이런 생각을 하며 재빨리 확인한 나는 그대로 얼어붙고 말았다. 속옷이 사라졌다. 내가 이곳저곳 찾고 있을 때 갑자기 뒤에서 형수의 목소리가 들려왔다. “찾을 필요 없어요. 이미 씻었으니까.” 순간 가슴이 철렁했다. ‘그 속옷에 내 정액이 가득 묻어 있는데, 형수가 씻었다면 봤을 거잖아!’ 이건 너무 부끄러웠다. 그런데 형수는 팔짱을 낀 채 눈웃음을 치며 아무렇지 않은 듯 나를 봤다. “수호 씨, 혹시 어제 무슨 소리 들었어요?” 나는 고개를 절레절레 흔들며 어제 형수의 소리를 들었다는 걸 극구 부인했다. “아니요, 아무것도 못 들었어요.” “그래요? 내 방에서 이상한 소리 듣지 못했어요?” ‘이건 나를 시험하는 건가?’ “저 어제 10시쯤에 잠들어서 아무것도 못 들었어요.” 이 말을 끝으로 나는 도망치듯 그 자리를 벗어났다. 왠지 모르겠지만 형수의 심문에 가슴이 콕콕 찔렸고 눈은 저도 모르게 형수의 가슴으로 향했다. 분명 마가 낀 게 틀림없다. 나는 곧장 식탁 앞에 앉아 묵묵히 음식을 먹었다. 하지만 밥이 코로 넘어가는지 입으로 넘어가는지 모르겠다. 그도 그럴 게, 형수가 이내 걸어와 하필이면 내 옆에 앉았기 때문이다. 왜 이러는지 이해가 되지 않는다. 예전에는 분명 내 맞은편에 앉았는데, 오늘은 왜 내 옆에 앉는지. 내가 이런저런 생각에 잠겨 있을 때, 형수가 갑자기 손가락으로 내 팔뚝을 쿡쿡 찔렀다. 순간 온몸이 감전되는 듯 찌릿해 났다. ‘여자가 내 몸을 만지는 게 이런 기분이구나.’ 신기한 기분이었다. “수호 씨, 혹시 내가 무서워요?” “아니요. 그냥 조금 어색해서요.” “사람은 원래 어색하다가 점점 익숙해지는 거 아니겠어요? 어색하니까 더 많이 교류해야죠. 그래야 얼른 친해지죠. 수호 씨, 남자와 여자가 가장 빨리 친해지는 방법이 뭔지 알아요?” 내 착각인지 모르겠으나 형수는 분명 나에게 암시하는 것 같았다. 그걸 인식하니 너무 당황해 밥이 넘어가지 않았다. 설렘 반 긴장 반인 심정으로 형수의 말에 담긴 의미를 생각하다가 끝내 용기를 내 질문했다. “뭔데요?” “아이 만드는 거요.” 형수는 맑은 두 눈으로 나를 바라보며 아주 직설적으로 말했다. 그 순간 나는 사레가 걸렸다. 형수가 왜 이런 말을 하는지 이해가 되지 않았다. 내가 형수와 뭘 할 수 있다고. ‘설마 나를 노리나?’ ‘형이 안 되니까 나한테 희망을 품은 건가?’ ‘안돼, 난 절대 형한테 미안한 일 할 수 없어.’ 나는 다급히 의자를 들고 옆으로 물러났다. “형수, 농담하지 마세요. 누가 보면 오해해요.” 형수는 나를 보며 피식 웃더니 곧장 질문했다. “그럼 솔직히 말해봐요. 어제 무슨 소리 들었어요? 솔직히 말하지 않으면 깊은 대화를 해봐야 할 것 같은데요.” ‘헉, 절대 그럴 수 없어.’ 나는 놀란 가슴을 다독이며 결국 입을 열었다. “형수님, 저 확실히 무슨 소리 들었어요. 하지만 고의는 아니었어요.” “혹시 내 신음 소리였어요? 듣기 좋던가요?” 형수님이 이렇게 노골적인 질문을 할 거라고는 생각지도 못했다. 얼굴은 화끈 달아올랐고, 가슴은 요란하게 북을 쳐 어떻게 대답해야 할지 갈피를 잡지 못했다. 그러던 그때. 마침 밖에서 노크 소리가 들려오자 나는 지푸라기라도 잡는 심정으로 얼른 달려가 문 쪽으로 달려갔다. 그리고 문을 열었더니 밖에는 늘씬한 여자 한 명이 서 있었다. 얼굴은 예쁘장한 데다, 나올 데 나오고 들어갈 데 들어가 연예인 못지않았다. 여자는 나를 보자 눈을 크게 뜨며 물었다. “그쪽은 누구죠?” 그 말에 나는 어이가 없었다. “그러는 그쪽은 누군데요?” 제2화 “애교야, 왔어? 얼른 들어와.” 내가 한참 답답해하고 있을 때, 형수가 다가와 낯선 여자를 친절하게 맞이했다. 여자는 형수의 초대로 곧장 집 안에 들어섰다. 그러자 형수가 우리를 소개했다. 여자는 형수의 친한 친구인데, 이름은 이애교, 바로 옆집에 살고 있었다. “애교야, 이 사람은 동성 씨와 같은 마을에 살던 동생이야, 정수호라고, 어제 왔어.” 애교라는 여자는 이상한 눈으로 나를 보더니 이내 빙그레 웃었다. “동성 씨한테 이렇게 어리고 잘생긴 동생이 다 있었어?” “수호 씨 이제 막 대학 졸업했어. 그러니 당연히 젊지. 젊을 뿐만 아니라 엄청 튼실해.” 내 착각일지 모르겠으나 형수의 마지막 한마디는 무척 의미심장했다. 심지어 눈길마저 내 아래를 흘끗거렸다. 그 동작에 나는 더 불편해졌다. 그때, 애교 누나가 나를 위아래로 훑더니 물었다. “태연아, 네가 말했던 마사지사가 설마 이 사람이야?” “맞아. 수호 씨가 어릴 때부터 할아버지한테 마사지를 배웠대. 솜씨가 엄청 좋아.” 형수는 말을 마치자마자 나를 봤다. “아까 미처 말하지 못했는데, 사실 내 친구가 허리와 척추가 아프다고 해서요. 가끔 가슴도 답답하대요. 원래는 한의사를 불러 마사지 좀 받게 하려고 했는데, 수호 씨가 마침 마사지할 줄 알잖아요. 그래서 한번 받아보게 하려고요.” ‘그런 거였군.’ 나는 단번에 승낙했다. ‘형과 형수가 나를 이곳에서 머물게 해주고 일자리도 알아봐 줬는데, 이런 일 정도야 당연히 도와야지.’ 그때, 애교 누나가 부끄러운지 형수를 옆으로 끌고 갔다. “이건 좀 아니지 않나? 너무 젊은데?” “젊은 게 뭐 어때서? 젊을수록 좋은 거 아니야? 젊어야 힘이 좋고, 그래야 너 같은 유부녀를 편하게 모실 수 있잖아.” “무슨 헛소리하는 거야. 나 그런 사람 아니거든.” 애교 누나는 얼굴을 붉혔다. 그러자 형수가 싱긋 웃으며 대답했다. “농담이야. 네가 그쪽으로 생각하니까 그렇지. 솔직히 말해봐, 네 남편 반년 동안 집에 안 왔는데, 그동안 하고 싶지 않았어?” “너 계속 이러면 나 간다?” 그때, 형수가 귀까지 빨개진 애교 누나의 팔짱을 끼며 말했다. “알았어. 안 놀릴게. 너는 점잖고 우아한 귀부인이야. 됐지? 그런데 우리 수호 씨 솜씨 엄청 좋아. 한번 해봐. 젊고 잘생긴 남자가 밖에 있는 늙은 영감보다야 낫지 않겠어?” 애교 누나는 형수의 말에 일리가 있다고 생각했는지 고개를 끄덕였다. “그럼 옆에 있어 줘. 안 그러면 어색할 것 같아.” “그래, 같이 있어 줄게.” 두 사람은 한참 동안 소곤거리더니 그제야 내 앞으로 다가왔다. 애교 누나가 형수더러 먼저 시범 보여달라고 하자 형수는 군말 없이 소파에 엎드렸다. “수호 씨, 시작해요.” 나는 의자를 가져와 형수님 옆에 앉아 마사지를 하기 시작했다. 콜라병 몸매를 소유한 형수의 엉덩이는 동그랗고 볼록해 나는 저도 모르게 때리고 싶다는 생각이 들었다. “태연, 어때? 시원해?” 애교 누나가 물었다. “당연하지, 이렇게 시원하기는 오랜만이야.” 형수의 낮은 신음소리에 나와 애교 누나는 얼굴이 화끈 달아올랐다. 심지어 아래가 터질 것 같아 괴로워하고 있을 때, 애교 누나도 부자연스럽게 다리를 꽉 모았다. “됐어, 애교야. 이제 네 차례야.” 형수는 소파에서 일어나 우리에게 물을 따라주자, 애교 누나는 부끄러워하면서 소파에 눕더니 다리에 담요를 덮었다. ‘쯧, 예쁜 다리를 가리다니, 아쉽네.’ 하지만 아무리 덮는다고 해도 완벽한 몸매를 가릴 수는 없었다. 애교 누나는 마른 체형이지만 나올 데 나오고 들어갈 데 들어간 데다 얼굴까지 동안이라 눈길을 더 끌었다. 그때 내가 손을 어깨에 대자 애교 누나의 몸이 뻣뻣하게 굳었다. ‘형수님은 형수님이라 뭘 할 수 없다지만, 형수님 친구는 괜찮잖아? 게다가 남편이 오랫동안 집을 비웠다고 했으니 엄청 외로울 거야.’ “애교 누나, 시원해요?” “응.” 내 물음에 애교 누나는 부끄러운 듯 낮게 대답했다. 그 대답을 들으니 나는 더욱 대담해졌다. “더 시원하게 해줄게요.” 나는 애교 누나의 등을 타고 두 손을 점점 아래로 움직였다. 그러자 애교 누나가 몸을 부르르 떨었다. “지금 뭐 하는 거예요?” “허리 시큰거린다면서요? 허리 좀 주물러 주려고요.” 살짝 겁을 먹은 채 말했더니 애교 누나는 아무 말도 하지 않았다. 묵인을 얻자 내 손은 다시 애교 누나의 허리 위로 올라가 꾹꾹 누르기 시작했다. 애교 누나의 허리는 매우 가늘어 한 손에 잡힐 정도였다. 하지만 엉덩이는 그에 비해 크고 통통한 애플힙이었다. “사실 누나의 어깨는 크게 문제없어요. 하지만 허리에 문제가 많아요.” “네? 허리가 왜요?” 나는 불안한 듯 묻는 애교 누나의 허리를 누르며 말했다. “신장이 약해요. 신장이 약하면 이렇게 허리가 아프거든요.” “신장은 보통 남자한테 중요한 거잖아요. 나는 여자라서 크게 상관없는 거 아니에요?” “그건 오해예요. 남자든 여자든 신장이 두 개인 건 똑같잖아요. 보통 신장하면 남성 기능 쪽으로 생각하는데, 여자도 기혈이 부족하면 신장이 약할 수 있어요. 누나가 얼굴색이 창백한 것도 기혈이 부족해서 그래요. 이걸 장기적으로 방치하면 다른 문제가 생기거든요.” “그럼 어떡해요?” 애교 누나가 무의식적으로 묻자 나는 씩 입꼬리를 올렸다. “사실 지금은 그렇게 심각한 게 아니라 한동안 이렇게 마사지 받으면 나을 수 있어요.” “그럼 얼른 마사지해 줘요.” “그럼 시작해요.” 나는 애교 누나의 허리를 따라 아래로 손을 내렸다. 그 순간 애교 누나의 몸이 뻣뻣하게 굳었다. 하지만 아무 말도 하지 않자 나는 더 대담하게 행동했다. 내 손은 애교 누나의 엉덩이를 스치며 다리를 덮고 있던 담요를 천천히 걷어냈다. 백옥처럼 새하얀 다리는 역시나 예술이었다. 나는 손을 점점 아래로 내려 애교 누나의 발을 쥐고 발바닥 혈 자리를 꾹꾹 눌렀다. 그러자 애교 누나는 참지 못하고 신음을 내더니 부끄러웠는지 얼굴이 새빨개졌다. “괜찮아요?” 애교 누나는 가쁜 호흡을 가다듬으며 대답했다. “괜찮아요, 계속해요.” 그 말에 나는 계속해서 애교 누나의 발바닥을 눌렀다. 그러다 참지 못하고 애교 누나의 치마 속을 훔쳐봤는데 아쉽게도 다리를 너무 꽉 모으고 있는 탓에 아무것도 볼 수 없었다. 그렇게 한참 동안 누르다가 나는 만족스럽지 않아 대담하게 요구했다. “애교 누나, 혹시 평소에 가슴이 답답하지 않아요? 내가 마사지해 줄게요.” 나는 말하면서 무의식적으로 애교 누나의 가슴을 슬쩍 스쳐봤다. ‘저기를 누를 수 있다면 얼마나 좋을까?’ 거절당할까 봐 걱정했던 것도 무색하게, 애교 누나는 바로 동의했다. “뭐, 그래요.” 순간 너무 흥분한 나머지 나는 의자를 소파 쪽으로 더 바싹 붙이며 말했다. “누나, 반듯하게 누워요. 그래야 마사지할 수 있으니까?” 애교 누나는 고분고분 뒤돌아 소파 위에 반듯하게 누웠다. 애교 누나의 가슴은 형수님 것보다 작았지만 봉긋하게 솟았다. 한 번도 여자 가슴을 만져 본 적 없어 잔뜩 긴장한 채로 손을 뻗으려는 그때, 갑자기 형수의 목소리가 들려왔다. “어머, 두 사람 진도 빠르네.” 제3화 나는 마치 나쁜 짓을 한 어린애처럼 벌떡 일어났다. “형수님, 형수님이 여긴 어쩐 일이에요?” 애교 누나도 잘못을 저지른 것처럼 벌떡 자리에서 일어났다. 심지어 양 볼은 어느새 사과처럼 빨갛게 무르익었다. “태연아, 그런 거 아니야. 나랑 수호 씨 아무 일도 없었어. 그냥 가슴이 답답해서 마사지해 준 것뿐이야.” 애교 누나가 구구절절 설명하자 형수가 피식 웃었다. “내가 뭐라고 한 것도 아닌데, 왜 그렇게 긴장해? 아니면 나 몰래 정말 나쁜 짓이라도 했어?” 나와 애교 누나는 동시에 고개를 저었다. 그와 동시에 당혹스러웠다. ‘내가 감히 형수님 친구를 어떻게 하려 하다니, 만약 형수님이 알면 분명 쫓아낼 거야.’ 그때 애교 누나가 안절부절못하더니 일이 있다는 핑계로 서둘러 집을 나갔다. 형수는 그런 애교 누나의 뒷모습을 보며 멍해 있다가 한참 뒤에 나를 보며 물었다. “수호 씨, 내 친구 어떻게 같아요?” “네?” 형수한테서 갑자기 이런 질문을 받으니 나는 마음이 혼란스러워 말까지 더듬었다. “좋죠. 예쁘고 몸매도 좋고 성격도 좋잖아요.” “그럼 내 친구 꼬시라고 하면 그럴 의향 있어요?” 형수의 말에 나는 놀라움을 감출 수 없었다. 마음도 혼란스러워 무슨 말을 해야 할지 몰랐다. 문제는 형수가 방금 내가 형수 친구를 어떻게 해보려던 걸 발견하고 일부러 떠보는 것일까 봐 걱정되었다. 내가 긴장하고 있을 때, 형수가 내 팔을 잡으며 손등을 톡톡 두드렸다. “긴장할 거 없어요. 솔직히 말하면 돼요.” “형수님, 저 난처하게 하지 마세요. 애교 누나는 형수님 친구인데 제가 어떻게 감히 그런 마음을 품겠어요?” “감히라고요? 아래가 이렇게 단단해졌으면서.” 형수는 내 아래를 흘긋거리며 말했다. 순간 너무 쪽팔리고 난감해 나는 얼른 허리를 숙였다. “와, 사이즈 보통 아니네요.” 내 착각일지 모르겠으나 내 아래를 본 순간 형수의 눈빛이 변했다. 그때 형수가 말을 이었다. “나 농담 아니에요. 애교와 잠자리를 가져요. 형 도와주는 셈 치고.” ‘뭐지? 애교 누나와 자는 게 형과 무슨 상관이지?’ 형수는 나를 소파에 앉히더니 설명하기 시작했다. “동성 씨 회사와 애교의 남편이 현재 사업 파트너거든요. 애교 누나의 남편이 밖에 애인이 있는데 동성 씨한테 사람을 찾아 자기 아내 꼬셔달라고 부탁했대요. 그러면 빨리 이혼할 수 있으니까. 이제 알겠죠?” 나는 연신 고개를 끄덕였다. 알아들은 건 확실하나 이해가 되지 않았다. ‘애교 누나처럼 예쁜 여자를 두고 그 남편은 왜 바람피우는 거지?’ 내가 깊은 생각에 빠져 있을 때 형수가 내 허벅지를 꼬집었다. “무슨 생각을 그렇게 해요?” “아!” 너무 아파 저도 모르게 비명을 지르며 나는 연신 고개를 저었다. “아무것도 아니에요.” “내가 아침에 한 말 기억해요? 남자의 그건 정확한 곳에 써야 해요. 애교 누나의 남편이 반년 동안 애교 누나한테 손끝 하나 대지 않았대요. 그러니까 수호 씨가 조금만 손쓰면 바로 넘어올 거예요. 여자와 자본 적 없죠? 이번이 기회예요.” 형수의 말을 들을수록 나는 얼굴이 빨갛게 달아올랐고, 아랫배에 열기가 몰렸다. 문제는 너무 부끄러우면서도 난감한 부탁이라는 거다. 만약 다른 사람의 부탁이라면 그나마 괜찮았을 텐데. 형수는 내가 꿈쩍도 하지 않자 갑자기 옆으로 바싹 다가왔다. 그 순간 은은한 향기가 내 코끝을 간지럽혔다. 전에 한 번도 형수와 이렇게 가까이 앉은 적 없는데, 지금은 심지어 형수의 온도까지 느껴질 정도라 가슴이 콩닥거리는 한편 긴장했다. “혹시 무서워요? 걱정돼요?” 조심스럽게 묻는 형수의 말에 나는 필사적으로 고개를 끄덕였다. 이건 무서운 정도가 아니라 아주 겁이 나 미칠 지경이다. 여자 친구도 사귀어 본 적 없는 나더러 유부녀를 꼬시라니. 무섭지 않을 리가. 그때 형수가 다시 한번 내 손을 잡으며 한 번도 들은 적 없는 부드러운 목소리로 말했다. “걱정할 거 없어요. 상대는 외로운 유부녀라 마음껏 꼬셔도 돼요. 유부녀를 꼬시는 가장 효과적인 방법이 바로 성욕을 자극하는 거예요.” “성욕이 한번 끓어오르면 끝이 없거든요. 그때가 되면 수호 씨는 아무것도 안 해도 모든 일이 풀릴 거예요. 알았어요?” 나는 건성으로 고개를 끄덕였지만 생각은 이미 다른 데로 날아가 버렸다. 머릿속에는 아침에 들은 장면이 떠올랐고, 형수님의 가슴이 얼마나 매혹적일지 상상했다. 그런데 하필이면 형수가 그걸 보고 말았다. “나 커요?” 갑작스러운 형수의 물음에 나는 바짝 긴장했고, 입이 바싹 말라 넋을 잃은 듯 대답했다. “네.” “만지고 싶어요?” 순간 피가 거꾸로 솟는 기분이 들었고 머리가 윙윙 울려 아무 말도 할 수 없었다. 그때, 형수가 내 쪽으로 갑자기 바싹 다가와 가슴을 내 몸에 눌렀다. 그 순간, 나는 바보라도 된 것처럼 머리가 온통 백지장이 되어버렸다. “그러고 싶으면 싶은 거죠. 민망해할 거 뭐 있어요? 이건 인간의 본능적인 욕구예요. 풀 때는 풀어야 한다고요.” 결국 나는 참지 못하고 이를 악물었다. “만지고 싶어요. 그것도 아주 많아.” “하하하, 잘했어요. 마음이 시키는 대로 해 봐요. 그럼 무서울 거 없잖아요. 하지만 그 욕구는 애교 누나한테 풀어요. 형수인 내가 아니라. 알겠어요?” 순간 기분이 나락으로 떨어졌다. ‘난 또 형수님이 나한테 몸 바치려 하는 줄 알았는데 어떻게 대담해지는지 가르쳐주는 거였잖아.’ ‘하지만 오히려 좋아. 내가 만약 형수와 무슨 일이라도 생기면 형한테 미안해서 어떡해?’ 나는 더 이상 참을 수 없어 배가 아프다는 핑계를 대고 얼른 화장실로 달려갔다. 방금 애교 누나를 도와 마사지할 때부터 참기 힘들었는데, 형수가 나를 건드리기까지 하니 아래가 터질 것만 같았다. 물론 형수가 손장난도 적당히 하면 몸에 좋고 지나치면 몸이 상한다고 했지만, 이 순간 더 이상 참을 수 없었다. 하지만 뜻밖에도 목욕 타월을 올려놓는 선반 위에서 여자 팬티 한 장을 발견했다. 깊이 생각하지 않아도 알 수 있었다. 이 팬티의 주인이 형수라는 걸. 그 순간 그 팬티를 가져야 할지 말아야 할지 수없이 고민했다. 이내 눈을 감고 마음을 진정하려고 했으나, 하필이면 머릿속에 아침에 봤던 장면이 떠올랐다. 심지어 마음속에서 악마의 속삭임이 나를 유혹했다. ‘손장난하는 것뿐인데, 그건 괜찮잖아. 이건 쉽게 얻을 수 없는 기회라고, 놓치면 앞으로는 기회도 없어.’ 결국 나는 그 속삭임에 넘어가 저도 모르게 팬티를 향해 손을 뻗었다. 제4화 팬티는 부드럽고 나른한 데다 심지어 형수의 냄새까지 배어 있었다. 손에 감각이 느껴지자 저도 모르게 아침에 몰래 엿들었던 소리가 뇌리에 재생되며 점차 흥분되었다. ‘형수와 뭘 진짜로 할 수는 없지만 팬티로 상상하는 건 괜찮잖아.’ 나는 속으로 이렇게 중얼거리며 벨트를 풀고 팬티를 밀어 넣었다. 하지만 내 손이 아래에 닿으려 할 때 노크 소리가 들렸고, 너무 놀란 나머지 나는 그대로 뿜을 뻔했다. ‘집에 나와 형수님 둘뿐이니 노크한 사람은 형수님이겠지?’ 나는 서둘러 그 팬티를 꺼내 목욕 타월 선반 위에 올려다 놓고 나서 조심스럽게 말했다. “형수님, 왜 그러세요?” “수호 씨, 안에서 무슨 나쁜 짓 했어요?” ‘이런 말을 묻는다고?’ “네? 아, 아니요.” 나는 찔려서 말을 더듬었다. “그런데 왜 그렇게 떨어요?” 형수의 한마디에 나는 가슴이 철렁해 식은땀을 줄줄 흘렸다. ‘형수가 아무리 개방적이라고 해도 본인과 나는 안 된다고 명확히 말했는데, 만약 내가 형수의 팬티를 가지고 그런 짓을 한 걸 들키면 내가 본인 말을 안 듣는다고 생각해 쫓아내면 어떡하지?’ 하지만 이 상황을 어떻게 설명해야 할지 몰라 나는 애써 설명했다. “정말 아무것도 아니에요. 배가 아파서 식은땀이 난 것뿐이에요.” “갑자기 식은땀이 왜 나요? 혹시 어디 아파요?” 형수는 이내 나를 걱정했다. “저도 모르겠어요. 그냥 좀 불편해요.” “문 좀 열어봐요. 어디 봐봐요.” “이, 이제 괜찮아요.” “내외할 거 뭐 있어요? 수호 씨 내 눈에는 아직 애예요. 그러니 얼른 문 열어요.” 그 말을 들은 순간 실망감이 휘몰아쳤다. ‘내가 형수님 눈에 고작 애였다니. 어쩐지 내 앞에서 거침없더라니. 나는 그런 상대로 한 번도 생각하지 않았나 보네.’ 나는 허리를 숙여 화장실 문을 열었다. 형수는 들어오자마자 나를 보는 게 아니라 목욕 타월을 놓은 선반 위를 확인했다. 나는 마음이 찔려 형수의 눈을 마주칠 수 없었다. 그때 형수가 선반 쪽으로 걸어가더니 나한테 웃으며 물었다. “혹시 내 팬티 건드렸어요?” “아, 아니요.” 나는 다급하게 고개를 흔들었다. “정말이에요? 그런데 얼굴은 왜 그렇게 빨개요? 솔직히 말해요. 방금 내 팬티로 나쁜 짓 하려고 했는데 내가 방해한 거죠? 그래서 내가 들어오는 걸 무서워했던 거고?” ‘뭐야? 천리안이라도 지녔나? 어떻게 저렇게 귀신같이 다 알지?’ 형수는 나를 위아래로 훑더니 내가 허리를 구부린 채 일어나지 못하자 의심의 눈초리로 바라봤다. “똑바로 서요.” 형수는 나를 지그시 바라보며 말했다. 그런 형수의 명을 나는 어길 수 없었다. 하지만 내가 몸을 곧게 편 순간 난감한 상태인 것이 바로 들켜버렸다. 형수도 그걸 본 게 틀림없다. 나는 눈을 감고 형수의 눈을 피했다. 하지만 형수가 천천히 내 앞에 무릎을 꿇는 게 고스란히 느껴졌다. 그 순간 가슴이 튀어나올 것만 같았다. 문제는 형수가 뭘 하려는지 몰라 도저히 모르겠다는 거였다. 너무 야릇한 자세에 나는 저도 모르게 이런저런 상상을 하며 천천히 눈을 떴다. 그랬더니 형수가 멍하니 내 그곳을 바라보며 감탄하는 게 아니겠는가? “동성 씨가 수호 씨처럼 이랬으면 얼마나 좋을까요?” 동경이 가득한 형수의 눈빛에 내 머리는 순간 백지장이 되어버렸고, 가슴은 미친 듯이 요동쳐 무슨 말을 해야 할지 몰랐다. 그런데 형수는 그곳을 한참 바라보더니 다시 일어났다. 나는 얼른 손으로 그곳을 막았다. “아직은 욕구를 풀지 마요. 그래야 애교 누나를 공략할 동력이 생기죠.” 형수는 말하면서 갑자기 나에게 바싹 다가왔다. “사실 나 일부러 이러는 거예요. 이러면 안 되는 거 아는데 동성 씨를 위해서 어쩔 수 없어요. 수호 씨가 너무 부끄럼을 타니까 우선 생각을 오픈해야죠. 손 치워요. 나도 산전수전 겪은 사람인데, 이런 걸 못 겪어봤을까요?” ‘그래도 이 방법은 너무 남다른 거 아닌가? 목숨이 남아나질 않는다고.’ 나는 속으로 아우성쳤다. “나와요. 애교한테 전화할 거니까 같이 쇼핑하면서 두 사람 이어줄게요. 오늘 애교가 수호 씨를 집에 초대할지 기대되네요. 얼른 해결해야 수호 씨 형네 회사도 얼른 제자리 찾을 수 있을 거예요.” 형수는 말을 마치자마자 허리를 흔들며 밖으로 나가 버렸다. 홀로 남겨진 나 역시 그제야 화장실에서 느릿느릿 걸어 나왔지만, 손은 온통 땀으로 젖었다. 너무 참고 있었던 탓이었다. 형수한테 매번 이런 식으로 자극당하고 제대로 풀 수 없으니 미칠 것만 같았다. 하지만 형을 위해서 참을 수밖에 없다. 형수는 소파에 앉아 애교 누나에게 전화했다. “안 나가겠다고? 왜? 안돼, 나랑 나가자. 안 나가면 수호 씨더러 너 안아서 내려오라고 한다?” “뭐? 내가 너무하다고? 그래, 나 원래 이래. 어떡할 건데?” “그래, 그럼 약속한 거다? 5분 뒷문 앞에서 기다릴게.” 형수는 전화를 끊자 나를 향해 웃으며 말했다. “해결했어요. 가서 옷 갈아입어요. 이따가 운전해야 하니까. 기억해요, 자꾸 뒤쪽을 봐야 해요, 서프라이즈가 있을 테니까.” “네.” 나는 짤막하게 대답하고 곧바로 옷 갈아입으러 갔다. 그러면서 내심 형수가 말한 서프라이즈가 뭘까 기대했다. 내가 이내 옷을 갈아입고 형수와 함께 문 앞에서 기다렸다. 그랬더니 얼마 지나지 않아 애교 누나가 나왔다. 붉은 원피스는 애교 누나의 하얀 피부를 더 희게 만들었고, V넥이라 가슴골이 훤히 드러났다. 그걸 본 순간 나는 넋을 잃고 말았다. ‘애교 누나의 몸매가 좋을 줄은 알았지만 이 정도일 줄이야.’ 애교 누나는 일부러 내 눈을 피하며 형수의 팔짱을 끼더니 내 앞으로 지나갔다. 그런 반응에 나는 답답하고 속상했다. 아까 마사지할 때만 해도 분명 살갑게 대했는데, 왜 갑자기 이렇게 차가워졌는지. 심지어 내 눈도 안 마주치고 있다. ‘설마 내가 너무 무례해서 화났나?’ 우리는 곧장 계단을 내려갔다. 그 사이 애교 누나는 형수와 웃고 떠들었지만 나는 혼자 꿔다 놓은 보따리처럼 옆에 덩그러니 서 있었다. 그게 너무 답답하고 괴로웠지만 차에 타자마자 갑자기 뒤를 돌아보면 서프라이즈가 있을 거라던 형수의 말이 떠올랐다. 그 서프라이즈가 무엇인지 궁금하여 나는 계속 백미러로 뒤를 힐끔거렸다. 하지만 형수는 애교 누나와 웃고 떠들기만 할 뿐, 기대했던 서프라이즈는 없었다. “형수님, 우리 어디 가요?” 길을 물어본다는 걸 핑계 삼아 또 한 번 뒤돌아봤지만 여전히 서프라이즈는 없었다. 하지만 애교 누나와 눈빛이 마주친 순간, 애교 누나의 얼굴이 빨갛게 달아오르더니 이내 시선을 피했다. 그건 당황하고 초조해하는 눈빛이 틀림없었다. 그 순간 내 가슴은 철렁 내려앉았다. 애교 누나는 지금 화나 있는 게 아니라 나와 썸을 이어갈지 고민하는 거였다. 그걸 인지하자 나는 기쁨을 주체할 수 없었다. 그건 애교 누나도 나한테 마음이 있다는 뜻이었으니. “광화문 광장으로 가요.” “네.” 형수의 말에 나는 짤막하게 대답했다. 그러고는 곧장 핸드폰을 꺼내 길을 검색하고는 시동을 걸었다. 차가 정체 구간에 이르자 좀처럼 속도가 나지 않아 나는 다시 뒤를 흘끔거렸다. 그리고 그 순간 애교 누나가 팬티를 내리는 모습을 봐버렸다.		남성 소설 모음		124	https://www.facebook.com/61560317043692/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683896	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/5/25, 6:38 AM	1739147232	1749123526		2524																										jacacas.com	Shop now			IMAGE	Custom couple heart-shaped carving night light	Personalized couple heart-shaped carving night light	https://www.jacacas.com/SK221			1.05145992238E+14	jacacas.com	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/409453761_6898470670246763_1466778917016237346_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2_zjBFLwbnEQ7kNvgG6q-hO&_nc_oc=AdjyGUrlbAiWI8-BPcHYFPbD8XVOpjHUy0uFqvftYT4bu7LmGtntyyIMyzLTboid5ENuMXnD3VxXAu5XHJpHSh3S&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYDWXEvgJ6X7qTUp_WHW_fbAoy9rU0XFag9F_RXtS2nqyg&oe=67AF32AF	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		💘 Personalized couple heart-shaped carving night light 😍 buy now 🎁 https://www.jacacas.com/SK221 💘😍 The perfect gift for your friends or family		jacacas.com		63	https://www.facebook.com/jacacascom/	0		SHOP_NOW								View Edit Delete
2683892	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/24/25, 10:47 PM	1739147231	1745552861		2524																										weihunyu.com	Learn more			IMAGE	더 많은 무료 챕터를 읽어보세요👉		https://weihunyu.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11315&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}			2.8305355155039E+14	소설의 세계	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475080975_1111942757277118_3917443562561678540_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QeFJxygOQJsQ7kNvgFO7Ko4&_nc_oc=AdiOrJuobjvF7-JA4P7WFUgLX0fo4ym7ezUchINV4_3wba6ZMYVC6DunFxFlMLGgApkblNeZbYN9vI8cZw_jg8Cp&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYCQ3gZClH-rjyhBkk79w9judVqzQK8BzEHr4WWyy9haCQ&oe=67AF0879	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		결혼 내내 순결을 고집하던 남편이 술에 취한 채 나와 뜨거운 첫날밤을 보냈다.이튿날, 남편의 첫사랑이 귀국했고, 그 날밤 남편은 이혼을 요구했다. ** 잠에서 깨어나자마자 온몸이 부서지듯 아팠다. 일어나려는 순간, 커다란 남자의 기분 좋은 체온이 내 몸에 닿았다. 그는 지나칠 정도로 잘생겼고, 깊고 진한 눈매는 그를 더 신비롭게 만들었다. 잠에 취해 있는 그는 반응이 없었지만, 나를 붙잡고 싶은 듯 무의식적으로 팔을 내게 뻗었다. 따뜻한 품에 좀 더 안겨 있고 싶은 마음도 잠시, 정신을 차리고 나는 조심스럽게 그의 품에서 벗어났다. 하얀 피부에 어젯밤의 흔적이 곳곳에 선명하게 남아 있었다. 다행히 옷을 입으면 가려지는 부위들이었다. 그때, 문을 두드리는 소리가 들렸다. 들어온 사람은 이현의 취향에 맞는 청순한 미녀였다. "대표님 깨어나실 때까지 옆에 누워서 기다리기만 하면 돼요." 깊은 잠에 빠진 그를 힐끔 바라보고는 담담하게 방을 나왔다. 나는 그가 어젯밤 나와 있었던 사실을 알게 되는 걸 원하지 않았다. 난 7년째 이현의 비서이자, 3년째 그의 와이프였다. 우리는 사랑도, 친밀한 행위도 철저히 금지한 채 3년간 비밀 결혼을 유지해왔다. 그동안 실수 한 번 없이 지냈지만, 어젯밤만큼은 달랐다. 그때, 뉴스 헤드라인에 이현의 첫사랑인 승아가 약혼자와 함께 귀국한다는 기사가 올라왔다. 그제야, 이현이 어젯밤 술에 취해 울었던 이유를 알게 되었다. 씁쓸한 마음에 담배를 꺼내어 불을 붙였다. 한 모금 깊게 들이킨 순간, 스위트룸에서 이현의 호통 소리가 들려왔다. "꺼져!" 그리고 놀란 듯한 여자 비명도 들렸다. 나는 급히 담배를 끄고 방으로 향했다. 엉망 된 방안, 놀란 여자는 벌거벗은 채 서있었고 이현은 어두운 얼굴로 침대에 앉아있었다. 나는 침착하게 물을 건네며 말했다. "대표님, 9시 반에 회의가 있습니다. 지금 일어나시면 됩니다." 이현은 나를 차가운 시선으로 쏘아보며 말했다. "어젯밤, 어디 갔었어?" 긴장된 표정을 숨기고 차분하게 말했다. "요즘 프로젝트 처리로 야근하다 사무실에서 잠들었어요." 이현은 차갑게 웃음을 짓고는 샤워 타월로 몸을 감싸고 욕실로 향했다. 그는 항상 내 앞에서 자신을 숨겼다. 마치 내가 그의 몸을 보는 게 역겹다는 듯이... 몇 분 뒤, 이현은 샤워를 마치고 옷을 입었다. 나는 늘 그래왔듯 그에게 다가가 넥타이를 매 주었다. 그 순간, 그의 숨결이 내 귓가를 스치며 속삭였다. "지유야, 어젯밤 그 여자… 너 맞지?"		소설의 세계		724	https://www.facebook.com/61557428073507/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683916	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	5/19/25, 4:07 PM	1739147236	1747688858		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474549558_628926442918298_7679834673855204063_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wD-7jaAgsygQ7kNvgGFZ9Vr&_nc_oc=AdhqF3Q98gfTFUCMqmG5crCsBQuvXirGqIJZQZZD2G_b91V3c-KPcO5X8K49CsLSB9nTwE-h_Y7F-8DYUuPRWlQ1&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYAaaIRrPgFzcnY4_Pj9dlcq6MK6qA0KEUlZu9OHVhQQMQ&oe=67AF2E43	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683874	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/25/25, 7:50 AM	1739147228	1745585414		2524																										mypetcanvas.com	Shop Now			DCO	Transform Your Pet's Photo into Vibrant Art!	Trusted by Over 12K Pet Parents	https://mypetcanvas.com/products/basquiat-canvas			1.0388033180679E+14	My Pet Canvas	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/453017146_422292733458631_8129222518644715058_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B8vaUN7ZGLQQ7kNvgFjrq-H&_nc_oc=AdhfHgOUpy3u3Dr_3B3po_5prJbTOPEdL7TK5toFW6Tq7CW925z0XflgYC2qrxR_XS6V-JWgLj2Dg7mnMb_FhGan&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A3mtVq559KOsUgHmBinDUrk&oh=00_AYCNL3rwQRKyEKS4ttafA5Ex-RnhrrAxUHsdpVzuhJDmUw&oe=67AF1C24	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		🐶 Surprise your loved ones with a personalized portrait of their furry friend! Each canvas is a unique work of art, created with love and attention to detail. Order now at mypetcanvas.com		My Pet Canvas		1537	https://www.facebook.com/mypet.canvas.official/	0		SHOP_NOW								View Edit Delete
2683912	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/25/25, 4:00 PM	1739147236	1745614805		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474535251_634982888958063_2000855136925718630_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=56_Eg5INtfIQ7kNvgFQh9Gv&_nc_oc=Adg0Yz5RIg5w9Q1t7Nsy3YcWEjTgDEYTrhlIyCH9tdaPLM3nsI2WsVWWyHUL5_gp6c7ikYob_WvgtoGXIjWZ4rXA&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYD-89U8nv8HsgNPttTl-mrGYsbJNeKTaQVXmTc4fj5wOw&oe=67AF0A28	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683903	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/25/25, 3:40 PM	1739147235	1745613651		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474201761_1163944678436147_403516014812683641_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZGVHtniixIQQ7kNvgERIByS&_nc_oc=AdieiD48TCIfop9T1YNukUF6mJGU5laJVw1q3fvDIuXITHaeBoPsJwH7rSbDvgfobclpIvE-H7C2GGZ8sJpt8lET&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYAUf3o3OzfZz7P3Hz5wXZzuowDzi5pGln5H1jsxMgx4xQ&oe=67AF0B67	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683922	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/25/25, 3:48 PM	1739147237	1745614090		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473756214_993386042637337_2871300057016065815_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pxVEk277N8kQ7kNvgGnFlMc&_nc_oc=AdgG40-bMXQrIDjVigD0ZzIxqQWsDBHSgFg31APatPd-uv4PM9brM8eNLyYr7fkbYAe3d3sRrzNOdurEW3_BtOpQ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYBGbTNHbw7gR6ZCI8dnEFlD2GQNHQRJTu5O3kj9BORxwQ&oe=67AF2F4A	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683905	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/25/25, 3:48 PM	1739147235	1745614093		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474475182_588772817301701_5510013886816975093_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=E_R0uqsdJksQ7kNvgHhPLl7&_nc_oc=Adjwqi8Zb72RcwlQnr5URvrUulcN-kVeYHhODeFKSoiIQ3seN5TACSm4VE64oG1Bovi5JM8n3KWQx3FyKyGmdPR2&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYCah3HdMvUci_Ueyp7XRpWiEP89BCHTBrgDRpFp7vnOgQ&oe=67AF2625	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683923	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/25/25, 3:50 PM	1739147238	1745614210		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474094861_1162657648811518_7902656360950014697_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QKM8gW1pbtwQ7kNvgH_SZc6&_nc_oc=Adj99Q_sMymN3Q3keRPdrWZBSXB0enPpw-Mb2gc6EV2xeL90KPxHeixuSwIzVZaFcbxExNAPMaRf4Kl4KiTFxMuq&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYCuUX4qiASgf6ufcrFcg6Z5GKzHq9eB20WhrvIhQ-KX_w&oe=67AF0322	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683917	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/25/25, 3:51 PM	1739147236	1745614262		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473803168_439191739161326_770562068164459819_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KEyiNKhbF1YQ7kNvgHKmctM&_nc_oc=AdgD7BOBiICEcPQiRuxWGbiuvRwNAaSqvdrYBB4hn7gRZx60g9FlAGfW3DSBSGxCXe59gXX3DnBi_Aqz3dUrDjgw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYCknOrGO6yHOephYwD1vhA_arKmoZPs7c4o6-hGHpuN3Q&oe=67AF0C41	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683928	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/25/25, 3:52 PM	1739147239	1745614380		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474188649_1136226770762412_1584828897959112889_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=R9azkogoOBIQ7kNvgG8Ixuw&_nc_oc=AdhbE4X8y_MwoKFwmviSYVHm4efbs4Pyzws2k4ChjIewQCR-jDVVeNoXTpewa_0ZBXPDFCKc9HutOlLdcR-klFdu&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYAVUk634IA78loifIRIT0CfmoOC2YqZK3vfaTrRsE991g&oe=67AF1FD7	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683875	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/7/25, 2:41 PM	1739147228	1749325264		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			IMAGE	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=16865&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}}			2.1900405462262E+14	Galaxy in the Story	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471436633_1111178080715589_6348095694429870959_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7jtOw7mNaggQ7kNvgFgX08i&_nc_oc=AdgchTl9Lz7lj_vpMC1wEZOqn_y1rGi_tMNFJBSAqmcCILSgNt2j-FN1lPfGZUXsbOxmWYm5VvsEFSt6F3EPc5T8&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A3mtVq559KOsUgHmBinDUrk&oh=00_AYAvSKH8_0HsXjeG7D2MYp7_sfdUjqMS9p7blixd60RVuw&oe=67AF1853	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		My husband Killian arrived late after my grandmother's funeral because he needed to be there for his first love. He looked like he ran in his wolf form. His hair is a mess, and his tie is not even tied properly. He was breathing so fast that he couldn’t even speak. My face turned blank as I locked gazes with him. “Astrid, I couldn’t leave early because I had something I needed to take care of.” My fists balled up at my sides as I narrowed my eyes at him. “Was there anything else more important than to be on your mate’s side at the time that she needed you the most?” I shot back at him. His eyes met mine and for a fleeting moment, a shadow of remorse flickered across his gaze “If only you hadn’t stopped me that night, I would have still met my grandma while she was still alive.” Killian’s grip on the bouquet tightened when he heard my words. “I had no idea I—“ “I kept telling you that my grandmother needed me!” I yelled, interrupting him from his words. “All you cared about is Giselle who is pre9nant with your child.” I blurted out finally releasing all the emotions that I have buried down long enough. Killian could not say a word. My heart which has always been heavy, felt lighter than it was after I finally told him the things that I’ve been wanting to tell him. I glanced at him in surprise when he suddenly crouched down and placed the bouquet of flowers that he brought on the ground where my grandmother had just been buried. “I only came here to pay my respects to your grandmother. I’m sorry if I was late, that was out of my control,” Killian replied like he didn’t just hear the rest of the words that I said. My breath turned shallow and my heart burned more in anger at his heartlessness. Unable to control myself anymore, I picked up the flowers and thrashed them on Killian until the flowers were all shredded into pieces. “You are here to pay respect?!” I screamed at him. I threw what was left of the flowers to the ground. “I’m tired of this. If you can’t give me respect, I should at least give myself some respect,” I spoke in a weak voice as I collected myself together. “Let’s just stop this joke and get a divorce,” I spoke firmly, looking at Killian directly in his eyes.		Galaxy in the Story		2320	https://www.facebook.com/61555427913037/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683911	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/8/25, 5:48 AM	1739147236	1749379685		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474068287_2042622919492317_1903789068108287632_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=t92UFC6h9p0Q7kNvgHV5f4-&_nc_oc=AdgxnBT1Kq4MdWB1T5nwePSqdwB5cJASLOkS3djs2A3T5RpSAihw2AZdA5y6GJeXV8us_aYx78Sql2XUjzv7I8rD&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYD8BdIlxoYUnM-Aqsmxu3tluH0z3_2BdRWliLRmHL-cUg&oe=67AF044A	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683877	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/21/25, 7:52 AM	1739147228	1745239960		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=16865&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}}			2.1900405462262E+14	Galaxy in the Story	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/472231372_2275238336180260_790023172920814453_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7sLRXxem0JoQ7kNvgGPE7m_&_nc_oc=AdgSDSHxIOLyD55cCFC9j_nw7Pa7W7F_XUxjMsS4VkTE7FeBqVIrz_SbuSdgYmpMB9amgVzrD7COsOIrpZwEdg-5&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWot1OYEwHq1WqQmsKfEUvg&oh=00_AYCgdWcoueRmJC1GVVFxDgXXkbR8Rh-pG8ZZtXJNA4EYDA&oe=67AF1B57	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		My husband Killian arrived late after my grandmother's funeral because he needed to be there for his first love. He looked like he ran in his wolf form. His hair is a mess, and his tie is not even tied properly. He was breathing so fast that he couldn’t even speak. My face turned blank as I locked gazes with him. “Astrid, I couldn’t leave early because I had something I needed to take care of.” My fists balled up at my sides as I narrowed my eyes at him. “Was there anything else more important than to be on your mate’s side at the time that she needed you the most?” I shot back at him. His eyes met mine and for a fleeting moment, a shadow of remorse flickered across his gaze “If only you hadn’t stopped me that night, I would have still met my grandma while she was still alive.” Killian’s grip on the bouquet tightened when he heard my words. “I had no idea I—“ “I kept telling you that my grandmother needed me!” I yelled, interrupting him from his words. “All you cared about is Giselle who is pre9nant with your child.” I blurted out finally releasing all the emotions that I have buried down long enough. Killian could not say a word. My heart which has always been heavy, felt lighter than it was after I finally told him the things that I’ve been wanting to tell him. I glanced at him in surprise when he suddenly crouched down and placed the bouquet of flowers that he brought on the ground where my grandmother had just been buried. “I only came here to pay my respects to your grandmother. I’m sorry if I was late, that was out of my control,” Killian replied like he didn’t just hear the rest of the words that I said. My breath turned shallow and my heart burned more in anger at his heartlessness. Unable to control myself anymore, I picked up the flowers and thrashed them on Killian until the flowers were all shredded into pieces. “You are here to pay respect?!” I screamed at him. I threw what was left of the flowers to the ground. “I’m tired of this. If you can’t give me respect, I should at least give myself some respect,” I spoke in a weak voice as I collected myself together. “Let’s just stop this joke and get a divorce,” I spoke firmly, looking at Killian directly in his eyes.		Galaxy in the Story		2320	https://www.facebook.com/61555427913037/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683882	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/23/25, 9:00 AM	1739147229	1745416860		2524																										norvure.com	Shop now			IMAGE	Effortless Styling, Endless Possibilities! 💁‍♀️	40% Off Until Midnight	https://norvure.com/products/curlfection%E2%84%A2-6-in-1-hot-air-styler			1.1075792873604E+14	HappyMe's	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439953260_983790673351763_4897086255001789744_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sOTRWn66TSMQ7kNvgF9k0bX&_nc_oc=AdgmtPgY5aRLLqbf12ZR6ExAZpOPUQwfycTfdXQzEYdTfVNw2UXLVl5et8zPT_VKYdk65R2UB6M7rKUbEnbcvC4z&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWot1OYEwHq1WqQmsKfEUvg&oh=00_AYAjP4FzZQTpbjLjZKJu963AZhhY4NHOnvGqHIStERsojQ&oe=67AF286E	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		🌟 Get salon-worthy hair from the comfort of your home with Curlfection™! Say goodbye to complicated routines and hello to effortless styling! 👉 Click Shop Now And Get Yours 40% Off Until Midnight!		HappyMe's		4132	https://www.facebook.com/100094368992659/	0		SHOP_NOW								View Edit Delete
2683900	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/15/25, 5:29 AM	1739147234	1744712995		2524																										heplk.com	Learn more			VIDEO	ここをクリックして無料でお読みください！		https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&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}}			3.1105348876231E+14	女の子が読みたい小説を大特集	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475511385_9223767017715177_7641617323054750819_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pCjWRmAbT0UQ7kNvgEHKWI1&_nc_oc=AdgJ3Nfo0GTZnHvhez1iFUM2rJVRookh-KhfIUlqY7RHwZXVjVTpxByyJfUW5kLev1rd-Xcwy80lvfvZyz29595X&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYANxggq1WR6vaQVvJdrpsy7cETb7xMco0SC8XvidHfLMQ&oe=67AF0A2C	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		高橋優子が末期癌と診断されたその日、夫の佐藤峻介は、初恋の相手の子供の世話をしていた。 ... 病院で、中村悠斗が渋い顔で言った。「優子さん、手術が成功すれば、生存率は15%から30%になる。」 優子はかばんのひもを細い指でぎゅっと握りしめ、青ざめた小さな顔に深い陰りを浮かべていた。 「先輩、もし手術を受けなければ、どのくらい生きられるの？」 「半年から1年ぐらい。」 優子は唇をぎゅっと噛みしめ、やっと言葉を吐き出した。「先輩、このことは秘密にしてちょうだい。家族を心配させたくないの。」 高橋家はすでに破産しており、優子は父親の医療費を工面するだけでも精一杯だった。 悠斗は諦めたように言った。「口外しないよ。でも、結婚していると聞いた。旦那さん――」 「お父さんのことはお願いね。もう行かないと。」優子は夫の話題を避けるように、早々にその場を立ち去った。 父親の治療が始まってからの2年間、夫である佐藤峻介は一度も姿を見せたことがなかった。彼女が倒れて通行人に病院へ運ばれた時でさえもだ。 かつては彼も優子を大切にしていた。だが、初恋の相手である松本里美が妊娠した状態で帰国してから、すべてが変わった。 優子もかつて妊娠していたことがあった。ある日、湖で松本里美とともに落水した時、必死にもがきながら、彼が里美に向かって泳いでいく姿を見た。 後、里美は無事に子どもを産んだ。でも優子は母親になる機会を奪われた。 7日後、峻介は離婚を求めたが、彼女は拒否した。 だが、病気のことを知った今、彼女は震える手で彼の電話をかけた。 3回目のコールでつながると、彼の冷たい声が聞こえてきた。「離婚以外の用件なら、お前に会う気はない。」 優子は涙をこらえ、癌の話を切り出すことができなかった。すると電話の向こうから里美の声が聞こえてきた。「峻介君、そろそろ赤ちゃんの定期検査よ。」 その瞬間、こらえていた涙が一気に溢れ出した。すべてを終わらせる時が来たのだ。 優子はこ震える声で、絞り出すようにぽつりと呟いた。「峻介……もう、離婚しよう。」 峻介は一瞬、驚いたようだったが、冷笑して言った。「優子、今度はどんな手を使うつもりだ？」 「家で待ってるから。」 峻介は、電話が突然切られた後、呆然とスマホを見つめていた。 一年間拒否し続けてきた優子が、なぜ今急に同意したのだろう？ 彼女に会いに行くことを決めた。 「峻介、どこに行くのよ？」里美が子どもを抱えながら追いかけてきた。 しかし、彼は何も言わず立ち去った。その瞬間、里美の優しい表情はみるみるうちに恐ろしいほど暗くなった。 あの女……また何か仕掛けてきたわね！ 玄関のドアが開いたとき、優子はテーブルのそばに立っているスーツを着た背が高い男性を見た。整った顔立ちは氷のように冷たく、その暗い瞳には優子への軽蔑が浮かんでいた。 「どこに行ってたんだ？」峻介が冷たく尋ねた。 「そんなことはいつから気にするの？」 「離婚届にサインしてもらう必要がある。」 その言葉は鋭い針のように彼女の心を刺した。濡れた体を引きずりながら、彼女はカバンから書類を静かに取り出した。 「心配する必要がない。もうサイン済みだ。」 彼女が書類をテーブルの上に置いたとき、峻介は「離婚」という二文字がこれほどまでに不愉快に思えたことはなかった。優子が唯一要求したのは、2億円の慰謝料だった。 「どうして急に同意したのかと思ったら、結局金のためか。」彼の顔が嘲笑を浮かべた。 かつてなら、自分を弁護するかもしれない。でも、今彼女はただ静かに言った。「本来なら、佐藤さんの資産の半分を請求する権利があるわ。でも、私は2億円しか要求しなかった。これでも、まだ情けをかけてるつもりよ。」 峻介は一歩前に進み、長い影が優子を覆った。彼は彼女の顎を細長い指で掴み、冷たい声で言った。「今、何て呼んだ？」 「佐藤さん、もしこの呼び方が嫌なら、元夫と呼び直してもいいわよ。さあ、書類にサインして帰ってもらっていい？」 彼は不愉快そうな顔をした。「ここは俺の家だ。出て行けと言う権利はお前にはあるかい。」 優子は皮肉げに微笑み、言った。「確かに、その権利はないわ。でも、安心して、佐藤さん。離婚証明書を受け取ったら、すぐに出て行く。」 また、彼の手を振り払い、冷たい目で彼を見つめた。「明日の朝9時、市役所で書類を持ってきてください。」 翌朝、日の出前には優子は出発しようとした時、病院から電話がかかってきた。「高橋さん、お父さんが心臓発作を起こしました。」 「えっ？すぐ向かいます！」 病院に到着すると、手術はまだ続いていた。 今、唯一の希望は父が健康で生き続けることだけだった。 看護師が手術費用の請求書を手渡してきた。総額は300万円以上。 でも、以前支払った入院費で残金はたったの10万円。どうしても足りなかった。 仕方なく、峻介に電話をかけた。 冷たい声が聞こえる。「どこだ？もう30分待っている。」 「急なことがあって――」 「優子、これでおもしろい？」峻介が鼻で笑う。「どうせまた嘘をついているんだろう？」 そんな！ 「嘘じゃない！父が心臓発作を起こして手術が必要なの！――」 「それで、死んだのか？」峻介が遮った。 その言葉に、優子は耳を疑った。そんな言い方する人がいるのか？ 「いいえ！峻介、手術費が300万円以上かかるの。だから慰謝料を先に振り込んでくれない？必ず離婚するから！」 「優子、俺が誰よりも君の父親の死を望んでいることを理解しているよな。金を渡すのはいいだろう、でも手続きが終わった後にだ。」 それだけ言うと、電話は切られた。 優子の顔には困惑が浮かんでいた。かつて彼は父に対して敬意を払っていたはずだった。しかし、今の彼の声には本気の憎しみが滲んでいた。 なぜだ？ 2年前の高橋家の破産と結びつけて考えると、偶然の出来事とは思えなくなってきた。 もうしかして、峻介が裏で何かを仕掛けたのだ。しかし、実家は一体どうやって彼を怒らせてしまったのだろう？ 今、考え込む余裕もなく、父の治療費を何とかするのが最優先だった。 手術室の扉が開いた。「先生？」 「髙橋さん、お父様はなんとか持ちこたえました。」 優子はようやく胸を撫で下ろした。 介護人に父を任せ、市役所に急いだが、峻介はどこにもなかった。 焦て電話をかける。「市役所に着いたわ。どこにいるの？」 「事務室だ。」 「今すぐ離婚手続きを済ませに来てくれない？」 峻介は薄く笑って言った。「数億円の契約とお前、どっちが大事だと思う？」 「終わるまで待つから……峻介、お願い、今父はお金が必要なの。」 「もし死んだら、葬式代を出してやるよ。」それだけ言うと、彼は電話を切った。 再び電話をかけたが、すでに電源が切られた。 優子は息が詰まるような感覚に襲われた。 彼女はあっという間に全てを失ってしまった。 今、優子が持っている唯一の価値あるものは、結婚指輪だけだった。 彼女は指輪を外し、高級宝飾店に足を踏み入れた。 「お客様、購入時の領収書と証明書はお持ちですか？」 「はい。」優子は急いで書類を差し出した。 「ありがとうございます。指輪は検査に出す必要があるので、明日またご連絡させていただけますか。」 優子は切迫した声で言った。「急いでいるんです。今日中にお願いします。」 「はい。」店員が指輪を持ち去ろうとしたその時、ある白くて繊細な手が指輪ケースを押さえた。 「この指輪、とても素敵ね。私が買うわ。」 顔を上げた優子の目に飛び込んできたのは、彼女がこの世で最も憎んでいる人物――松本里美だった		女の子が読みたい小説を大特集		141	https://www.facebook.com/61559954921868/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683901	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/15/25, 5:29 AM	1739147234	1744712995		2524																										heplk.com	Learn more			IMAGE	ここをクリックして無料でお読みください！		https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&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}}			3.1105348876231E+14	女の子が読みたい小説を大特集	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476141257_1147039370264513_2039789152257340819_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EPvdty_PF7YQ7kNvgF9JUAf&_nc_oc=AdhFwCkrSfT3_7x8YRQelFIQuyl9Om1apjtYEGsL5HbrcqH4jpJdnl652kXHHU6akAO80mD0lZFnw2ARmV0YxUDI&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYCWm8UboSQjTHQAfOVru67BgNtybvN3rhsRBs0rOX6tcw&oe=67AF07B5	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		高橋優子が末期癌と診断されたその日、夫の佐藤峻介は、初恋の相手の子供の世話をしていた。 ... 病院で、中村悠斗が渋い顔で言った。「優子さん、手術が成功すれば、生存率は15%から30%になる。」 優子はかばんのひもを細い指でぎゅっと握りしめ、青ざめた小さな顔に深い陰りを浮かべていた。 「先輩、もし手術を受けなければ、どのくらい生きられるの？」 「半年から1年ぐらい。」 優子は唇をぎゅっと噛みしめ、やっと言葉を吐き出した。「先輩、このことは秘密にしてちょうだい。家族を心配させたくないの。」 高橋家はすでに破産しており、優子は父親の医療費を工面するだけでも精一杯だった。 悠斗は諦めたように言った。「口外しないよ。でも、結婚していると聞いた。旦那さん――」 「お父さんのことはお願いね。もう行かないと。」優子は夫の話題を避けるように、早々にその場を立ち去った。 父親の治療が始まってからの2年間、夫である佐藤峻介は一度も姿を見せたことがなかった。彼女が倒れて通行人に病院へ運ばれた時でさえもだ。 かつては彼も優子を大切にしていた。だが、初恋の相手である松本里美が妊娠した状態で帰国してから、すべてが変わった。 優子もかつて妊娠していたことがあった。ある日、湖で松本里美とともに落水した時、必死にもがきながら、彼が里美に向かって泳いでいく姿を見た。 後、里美は無事に子どもを産んだ。でも優子は母親になる機会を奪われた。 7日後、峻介は離婚を求めたが、彼女は拒否した。 だが、病気のことを知った今、彼女は震える手で彼の電話をかけた。 3回目のコールでつながると、彼の冷たい声が聞こえてきた。「離婚以外の用件なら、お前に会う気はない。」 優子は涙をこらえ、癌の話を切り出すことができなかった。すると電話の向こうから里美の声が聞こえてきた。「峻介君、そろそろ赤ちゃんの定期検査よ。」 その瞬間、こらえていた涙が一気に溢れ出した。すべてを終わらせる時が来たのだ。 優子はこ震える声で、絞り出すようにぽつりと呟いた。「峻介……もう、離婚しよう。」 峻介は一瞬、驚いたようだったが、冷笑して言った。「優子、今度はどんな手を使うつもりだ？」 「家で待ってるから。」 峻介は、電話が突然切られた後、呆然とスマホを見つめていた。 一年間拒否し続けてきた優子が、なぜ今急に同意したのだろう？ 彼女に会いに行くことを決めた。 「峻介、どこに行くのよ？」里美が子どもを抱えながら追いかけてきた。 しかし、彼は何も言わず立ち去った。その瞬間、里美の優しい表情はみるみるうちに恐ろしいほど暗くなった。 あの女……また何か仕掛けてきたわね！ 玄関のドアが開いたとき、優子はテーブルのそばに立っているスーツを着た背が高い男性を見た。整った顔立ちは氷のように冷たく、その暗い瞳には優子への軽蔑が浮かんでいた。 「どこに行ってたんだ？」峻介が冷たく尋ねた。 「そんなことはいつから気にするの？」 「離婚届にサインしてもらう必要がある。」 その言葉は鋭い針のように彼女の心を刺した。濡れた体を引きずりながら、彼女はカバンから書類を静かに取り出した。 「心配する必要がない。もうサイン済みだ。」 彼女が書類をテーブルの上に置いたとき、峻介は「離婚」という二文字がこれほどまでに不愉快に思えたことはなかった。優子が唯一要求したのは、2億円の慰謝料だった。 「どうして急に同意したのかと思ったら、結局金のためか。」彼の顔が嘲笑を浮かべた。 かつてなら、自分を弁護するかもしれない。でも、今彼女はただ静かに言った。「本来なら、佐藤さんの資産の半分を請求する権利があるわ。でも、私は2億円しか要求しなかった。これでも、まだ情けをかけてるつもりよ。」 峻介は一歩前に進み、長い影が優子を覆った。彼は彼女の顎を細長い指で掴み、冷たい声で言った。「今、何て呼んだ？」 「佐藤さん、もしこの呼び方が嫌なら、元夫と呼び直してもいいわよ。さあ、書類にサインして帰ってもらっていい？」 彼は不愉快そうな顔をした。「ここは俺の家だ。出て行けと言う権利はお前にはあるかい。」 優子は皮肉げに微笑み、言った。「確かに、その権利はないわ。でも、安心して、佐藤さん。離婚証明書を受け取ったら、すぐに出て行く。」 また、彼の手を振り払い、冷たい目で彼を見つめた。「明日の朝9時、市役所で書類を持ってきてください。」 翌朝、日の出前には優子は出発しようとした時、病院から電話がかかってきた。「高橋さん、お父さんが心臓発作を起こしました。」 「えっ？すぐ向かいます！」 病院に到着すると、手術はまだ続いていた。 今、唯一の希望は父が健康で生き続けることだけだった。 看護師が手術費用の請求書を手渡してきた。総額は300万円以上。 でも、以前支払った入院費で残金はたったの10万円。どうしても足りなかった。 仕方なく、峻介に電話をかけた。 冷たい声が聞こえる。「どこだ？もう30分待っている。」 「急なことがあって――」 「優子、これでおもしろい？」峻介が鼻で笑う。「どうせまた嘘をついているんだろう？」 そんな！ 「嘘じゃない！父が心臓発作を起こして手術が必要なの！――」 「それで、死んだのか？」峻介が遮った。 その言葉に、優子は耳を疑った。そんな言い方する人がいるのか？ 「いいえ！峻介、手術費が300万円以上かかるの。だから慰謝料を先に振り込んでくれない？必ず離婚するから！」 「優子、俺が誰よりも君の父親の死を望んでいることを理解しているよな。金を渡すのはいいだろう、でも手続きが終わった後にだ。」 それだけ言うと、電話は切られた。 優子の顔には困惑が浮かんでいた。かつて彼は父に対して敬意を払っていたはずだった。しかし、今の彼の声には本気の憎しみが滲んでいた。 なぜだ？ 2年前の高橋家の破産と結びつけて考えると、偶然の出来事とは思えなくなってきた。 もうしかして、峻介が裏で何かを仕掛けたのだ。しかし、実家は一体どうやって彼を怒らせてしまったのだろう？ 今、考え込む余裕もなく、父の治療費を何とかするのが最優先だった。 手術室の扉が開いた。「先生？」 「髙橋さん、お父様はなんとか持ちこたえました。」 優子はようやく胸を撫で下ろした。 介護人に父を任せ、市役所に急いだが、峻介はどこにもなかった。 焦て電話をかける。「市役所に着いたわ。どこにいるの？」 「事務室だ。」 「今すぐ離婚手続きを済ませに来てくれない？」 峻介は薄く笑って言った。「数億円の契約とお前、どっちが大事だと思う？」 「終わるまで待つから……峻介、お願い、今父はお金が必要なの。」 「もし死んだら、葬式代を出してやるよ。」それだけ言うと、彼は電話を切った。 再び電話をかけたが、すでに電源が切られた。 優子は息が詰まるような感覚に襲われた。 彼女はあっという間に全てを失ってしまった。 今、優子が持っている唯一の価値あるものは、結婚指輪だけだった。 彼女は指輪を外し、高級宝飾店に足を踏み入れた。 「お客様、購入時の領収書と証明書はお持ちですか？」 「はい。」優子は急いで書類を差し出した。 「ありがとうございます。指輪は検査に出す必要があるので、明日またご連絡させていただけますか。」 優子は切迫した声で言った。「急いでいるんです。今日中にお願いします。」 「はい。」店員が指輪を持ち去ろうとしたその時、ある白くて繊細な手が指輪ケースを押さえた。 「この指輪、とても素敵ね。私が買うわ。」 顔を上げた優子の目に飛び込んできたのは、彼女がこの世で最も憎んでいる人物――松本里美だった。		女の子が読みたい小説を大特集		141	https://www.facebook.com/61559954921868/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683902	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/15/25, 5:29 AM	1739147234	1744712995		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474670428_618349787260074_333720092998423037_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3stkIWHVMXAQ7kNvgERb7HD&_nc_oc=AdgoXik_WnyiYF3s6QYyCu5VcM1kJMmD3OB1BE8FUwdFo5qdaLET-BbGt6BGFRNiqNWDa9bQx-fq1wkbA6j0Mdxg&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYD7ngyjPMQ7qUpSWyC5BT3hX-T0UxE_uF-tPNKqMyGblw&oe=67AF24C7	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683913	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/26/25, 5:26 PM	1739147236	1745706366		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474583376_1672912696598133_1349427210225192458_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LF9X3eP7NgsQ7kNvgEY_mgH&_nc_oc=AdhLzhkHgZInvENBF0Fa5RRDiyliGIfSQabg65U0iOmnHcUFHDDn01nvEYB_ZIZiwFPMsUbNP39xJWAbWesgl-Ek&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYAysemkAFxgpoTEBzeGZGAlaB-AxZly8O6feACrOA4rpg&oe=67AEFE12	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683918	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/24/25, 11:35 PM	1739147237	1745555721		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474695804_954359736647314_1665116585249290890_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HbibELyNPIYQ7kNvgFvcwCz&_nc_oc=Adg11ITA-Me1IMyTI2et5SpOIsP4GSrkW69KL40BJeKnYbbdL-d59cj06HJl2ZAGZNYuQ8ToE15lfvs-LoAGbp4V&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYBy1yB5nvJ6-E8f7mZzJgjuU7zzvbubAm_pQaYJ8yQUgw&oe=67AF2C36	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683920	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/24/25, 11:35 PM	1739147237	1745555722		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474624903_1356255615361622_354868379563266840_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uPsFuLlNfjIQ7kNvgHCNN1x&_nc_oc=Adjmg-8OiOTXFfQOIGawGoJZPO4nS2W3fYSmm9LQYtn-lYibzAxAE9u0vq2Vcc1tjxEoWhatEBNKgojg8QJT3dRo&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYDiuwGGN1GaZbflcyIT6vMW8y1dSHDZcA8ebDAL1l-1EA&oe=67AF1AEE	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683929	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/26/25, 5:27 PM	1739147239	1745706435		2524																										lzwnyvvd.com	Learn more			IMAGE	😍Read the next chapters👉		https://www.lzwnyvvd.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=18085&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}}			3.4292496556255E+14	Random Reading	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476156601_927491062877453_508792851808484055_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nLDDEzlCEBEQ7kNvgHhh5Ng&_nc_oc=Adit7IgoT81Zrw7tZCW4TLzT5iwe68AEw861ZMtDNl9_mQfeu_fQC76E8yr_qkDrB0zBT77mzbSaWrhx3Z7FGsNX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYC0U8sE3d109GpKUnVeZWKEfHxVn5yppDNfuSi0WxKH0Q&oe=67AF1FB3	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		In Merika State, the two of them lay close together on the hotel bed. As their passion grew, Justin Yates’s husky voice, filled with allure, murmured, “Em, how about having a child with me?” Caught up in the moment, Emily Yates replied without thinking. It wasn’t until they were lying together afterward that she remembered what he had said. “A child?” she repeated, a trace of intimacy lingering in her eyes. The look stirred Justin’s desire again. She was a constant temptation to him. Pushing those thoughts aside, he pulled out a ring and slipped it onto her left hand. “Are you proposing to me?” she asked. “Yes.” “Can I finally have your child now?” Justin asked, smiling. His eyes were warm, but there was no love in them, as if he were gazing past her, waiting for someone else’s answer. “I’ll give you plenty,” she replied, momentarily surprised. Proposing in bed wasn’t exactly romantic or formal, but she didn’t mind. She had waited three years for this moment, and it was worth it. Three years ago, she had been injured near the beach, hitting her head on a rock. When she woke up, she had no memory. Justin had saved her. The first thing she saw when she woke was his face, and one look left her captivated. Later, she learned that Justin had paid her hospital bills. She also learned of his identity. He was the CEO of RC Corporation. He proposed that she be his contract lover, and without hesitation, she agreed. They signed an agreement, defining their relationship, and he gave her the name Emily Yates. Yes, she was drawn to his looks. Despite their arrangement, the past three years felt like any other relationship. In the first year, she was a hidden lover. In the second, he introduced her as his girlfriend to his circle. Now, with three years approaching, he was proposing. Once she was part of his social circle, she heard whispers about a woman who had been his first love, someone he cherished deeply in college. She had disappeared without a trace, and he had been searching for her ever since. Over the years, Justin had lost hope she was still alive. That was why he finally proposed. Emily didn’t mind. Everyone has a past. Looking at the diamond ring on her left ring finger, she felt like it had all been worth it. The sound of running water came from the bathroom. Justin was showering. Calming down, Emily wrapped a towel around herself and got out of bed to pick up their scattered clothes. A soft *clink* echoed as something hit the floor. It was Justin’s cardholder. She bent down to pick it up, and a photo slipped out. It was old, with frayed edges, as if it had been looked at countless times. The woman in the photo looked like her but younger, just how she would have looked three years ago. Emily didn’t remember ever taking this photo, but she had lost her memory. Maybe she had forgotten. She was just about to put the cardholder back when a large, slender hand appeared, taking it from her. Justin emerged from the bathroom, his hair still damp and falling over his eyes, now tinged with a hint of displeasure. “Don’t touch my things,” he said coldly, his tone a sharp contrast to the intimacy they had just shared. Turning away from her, he put the cardholder back in his briefcase, his whole demeanor suddenly distant and guarded. Emily froze. Was he really getting defensive over a photo? She looked at him, confused. Wasn’t that her old picture? Before she could ask, Justin seemed to realize that his reaction had been out of line. He turned back and grasped her chin. With a playful glint in his eye, he ran his thumb over her still-swollen lips, toying with them. His voice was cool, devoid of warmth, but his words were deeply suggestive, clearly aiming to change the subject. “We’re going to be late for the art exhibit. If you rather stay here, I wouldn’t mind going another round.” Her cheeks flushed at his teasing, and she gently pushed him away. Her thoughts were scattered, and she quickly forgot about the photo. Justin had come to Merika State on business and had received an invitation to an art exhibition by Haley Quinn. He brought Emily along, planning to take her to the show once his work was done. Haley, a painter who had withdrawn from the public eye three years ago, rarely held exhibitions, making this one a rare event. Emily dressed quickly, while Justin had already changed into a fresh suit. The gallery was close to the hotel, so they walked there. Arm in arm, they strolled down the street, enjoying the perfect atmosphere. Just as Emily felt an overwhelming sense of happiness, Justin suddenly stopped. “Justin, what’s wrong?” She followed his gaze. Across the street, a disheveled woman, her clothes too dirty to recognize their original color, was recklessly crossing the traffic, oblivious to the danger. The woman pushed Emily aside and wrapped her arms tightly around Justin’s waist. She sobbed uncontrollably, gasping for air. “Justin, I finally found you. You came looking for me, didn’t you?” Emily stumbled from the shove, the bright sunlight momentarily blinding her. The woman looked eerily familiar. She resembled the one in the photo from the cardholder and, in a way, even looked like Emily herself. “Emma? Is that really you?” Justin’s voice trembled, his eyes locked onto the woman in his arms, as if afraid she might disappear again. Just moments ago, he had proposed to Emily. Now, right there in the street, he held another woman. He gently wiped away the woman’s tears with a tenderness so delicate, as if afraid of breaking something precious. “Yes, it’s me,” the woman sobbed, nodding desperately. Frail as she was, she clung to him. Justin was known for his fastidiousness and love of cleanliness, but he now held her tightly. He was soothing her with gentle words, as if she were a lost treasure he had finally recovered. He was afraid that even the slightest rough movement might hurt her. They seemed oblivious to everything around them, including Emily. Justin seemed to have forgotten Emily was still there. The woman in his arms had cried herself into unconsciousness. He took off his expensive jacket and draped it over her. He then slipped his arms under her knees and held her tightly as he carried her back toward the hotel. Emily stood there, feeling like an outsider. Her arm still ached from where she had been shoved, and she could still feel the warmth of Justin’s touch lingering around her waist. Just minutes ago, he had been tangled up with her in bed, proposing marriage. Now, he was leaving her in the middle of the street, carrying a woman who seemed to come out of nowhere. He had tossed aside his usual grace, holding this woman, who looked like a beggar, and rushed back to the hotel. The people around them pointed and whispered, like they were watching some sort of spectacle. Emily wanted to follow him, but her first step faltered. She steadied herself against a nearby building, catching a glimpse of her reflection in the window. Her flawless makeup now showed a hint of disarray. Chapter 2 Tears had fallen without her noticing, smudging the fresh makeup around her eyes. Emily glanced down at the diamond ring on her left hand, a sense of foreboding spreading through her. The sudden appearance of this woman might shatter the happiness she had been waiting for. She couldn’t just stand here. She had to know who this woman was. After a moment to gather herself, she headed back to the hotel. The plane flew from Merika State back to Haven State. At Lichfield Hospital, Emily stood at the door of a hospital room, arms crossed, trying to see inside through the window. Justin’s friend, Zac White, the director of Lichfield Hospital, along with other doctors, were examining the restless woman on the hospital bed. Two female nurses held her steady as they conducted their checks. On the plane, her face had already been cleaned, and she had been given fresh clothes. “Emma Xander? Hasn’t she... disappeared for the past four years?” Zac was shocked. Where had Justin found her? The Yates and White families had pulled every string they could to find Emma, but after four years with no trace, they had finally given up. And now, here she was. After completing their examination, the doctors and nurses left the room. A heavy silence fell over the space. A moment later, Justin’s voice seemed to echo from a distance as he gazed at the woman, now sound asleep after a sedative. “How is she doing?” “She’s malnourished, traumatized, and a bit disoriented, but otherwise fine. She just needs some time to recover.” Justin stood by her bedside, clearly prepared to stay with her. Zac hesitated, wanting to say something, but thought better of it and left the room. He opened the door to find Emily waiting outside. Feeling awkward for his friend, Zac adjusted his silver-framed glasses and greeted her with a polite smile. “Hi, Miss Yates.” Emily nodded in acknowledgment. “Dr. White, what’s her name? And what is her relationship with Justin?” she asked bluntly, desperate to know who this woman was. Zac hesitated, uncertain how to explain that Emma was Justin’s long-lost first love. This was his friend’s private matter, after all, and not his to reveal. Before he could find the words, Justin opened the door and saw them standing outside. He frowned, clearly displeased. “Didn’t I tell you to go home? Why are you still here?” Justin’s voice dripped with disdain and impatience, as if his irritation had taken on a life of its own. Emily stood her ground, unafraid. She needed answers. “You proposed to me in Merika State just 16 hours ago, but now you’re holding another woman and completely ignoring me. And you’re not even coming home? Staying out all night?” “Stop being unreasonable. Leave. Now,” he ordered, his voice cold and commanding, his gaze on her as though she were an unruly employee who had crossed the line. Seeing Justin’s dark expression, Zac stepped in, concerned that Emily might end up on the losing side of this argument. When Justin was angry, it rarely boded well for anyone. “It’s late. Let me arrange a car to take Miss Yates home,” Zac offered, trying to ease the tension. Emily, however, refused Zac’s offer. She wasn’t leaving without answers. “You think I’m being unreasonable? I’m your fiancée. You left me on the street in a foreign country to carry another woman away without a second thought. Did you ever consider how I felt? “I’ll go, but only if you leave the hospital with me. There are doctors and nurses here to care for that woman. Right now, you’re coming home with me.” Desperate, Emily reached out to grab Justin’s arm. But before she could make contact, her arm was blocked by Justin’s personal bodyguard, William Carter. Emily was stunned, unable to believe what she was seeing. It felt as though her heart was being torn in two. Justin had always been there for her, always caring, always the first to pick up her calls, no matter if he was in a meeting or on a business trip. If she ever needed him, he would show up immediately. If she couldn’t be reached, he would search the whole city until he found her. But now, with this woman in the hospital room, he wouldn’t even let her near him? “What do you mean by this?” Emily’s voice trembled, mirroring the unease in her heart. Justin didn’t respond. He stared at her with cold, detached eyes, as if she were a stranger and not the fiancée he had just proposed to. Time seemed to stretch, each second feeling like an eternity. Finally, he spoke, his words sharp and emotionless. “Don’t be childish.” Childish? Once, he had said he loved how she depended on him, how she claimed him for herself. And now he was calling her childish? “If you want to stay here with her, then what about our marriage? You proposed to me just today!” Emily’s heart ached, squeezing painfully in her chest. She knew it wasn’t the right moment to bring this up, but she couldn’t accept the idea that her future husband would spend the night in the hospital with another woman. Zac stood nearby, listening in shock. Marriage? Had Justin really proposed to Emily? And what about Emma in the hospital room? Justin glanced over his shoulder, worried that the woman asleep in the hospital bed might hear them and wake up. Emily noticed the concern in his eyes. It was an expression she had seen many times when he had worried about her. But now, that look was for someone else. He turned back to Emily, his voice still icy. “If you don’t want to get married, we can call it off. This isn’t the place for your drama. William, have the driver take her home.” He didn’t like being threatened, especially when it came to his marriage. Without another glance at her, he opened the door to the hospital room and went back inside. William stepped forward, maintaining his respectful tone. “Miss Yates, please don’t make this difficult for me. It’s time for you to go home.” Zac looked at Emily with sympathy. “Miss Yates, it’s late. Maybe it’s best to talk things over with Justin another time.” But how could they ever discuss this again? Her fiancé had just left her humiliated, choosing to stay with another woman without a care for her dignity. The hospital hallway lights felt harsh, blinding her with their brightness. Realizing that staying there made her look like a fool, Emily decided she wouldn’t let herself be a spectacle for others to watch. Clenching her purse tightly, Emily turned to leave. As she took a step, her vision blurred, and she nearly collapsed. Both Zac and William rushed to steady her, their grip gentlemanly but firm. “I’ll walk you to the car,” Zac offered. Leaning against the wall, Emily took a moment to steady herself, then shook her head. “I’m fine. I can get back on my own.” Her footsteps wobbled as she walked down the hallway, but she managed to keep her head high until she was out of their sight. After returning to the hospital room, Justin glanced down at Emma, who lay pale and frail on the bed. A strange weight settled in his chest, and the pervasive smell of antiseptic only added to his irritation. He tugged at his shirt collar, unbuttoning the top two buttons, but the air still felt suffocating. He stepped back out into the hallway, finding Zac and William waiting there. Emily was gone. “She left?” he asked, visibly more at ease now that she was no longer around. He didn’t want her disturbing Emma’s rest. “Yes, she’s gone,” Zac replied, hands in the pockets of his lab coat, nodding. With both of them standing there, Justin didn’t bother asking how Emily had left. “I’m stepping out for a break,” he said. Chapter 3 “So, Emma Xander’s back. What are you going to do?” Zac asked, breaking the silence. He didn’t mention Emily, but they both knew what he meant. One woman was the college sweetheart, the first love who had once saved Justin’s life. The other was the girlfriend who had been with him for three years, sharing his most intimate moments, and now, his fiancée. After a long pause, Justin replied, his voice cold and detached. “She was just a stand-in. She could never compare to Emma.” He went on, his tone utterly indifferent, as if he hadn’t been the one to propose to Emily in Merika State. “The role of Mrs. Yates will never be hers. It can only belong to Emma.” In a way, Emily had saved him the trouble of saying it himself when she had brought up their marriage in the hallway. Zac and Justin had been close friends since childhood, both growing up in privileged families, each carrying a bit of that self-centered mindset typical of their social circle. But this time, Zac couldn’t help feeling sorry for Emily. Emily, though an orphan with no family or wealth, was straightforward and honest. Over the past three years, she had complemented Justin perfectly, and in Zac’s eyes, they had seemed genuinely happy together. On the other hand, considering how long Emma had been abroad, it wasn’t hard to guess what she might have gone through. Zac didn’t care about things like V-card or a woman’s past, but he had always found Emma to be somewhat pretentious. Even back in college, she often disregarded Justin’s concerns, running off on her own without a second thought. After graduation, she mysteriously vanished during an overseas reunion party organized by a close group of alumni. Despite mobilizing every possible connection, they never found her. Even the police suggested they give up, implying that a young woman disappearing overseas was likely gone for good. At that time, Justin hadn’t fully taken over the company and wasn’t yet experienced in handling crises like these. Around the same time, his father, Henry Yates, was in a car accident and died despite emergency treatment. After the funeral, Justin was suddenly thrust into the dual responsibilities of inheriting the company and fending off his uncle, Harry Yates, who was trying to seize control. Thanks to his grandfather’s intervention, Justin managed to stabilize the corporation. By then, the critical window to find Emma had long passed, and any chance of finding her had all but disappeared. Zac clearly remembered how Justin had been consumed with frustration and self-blame during those days. And then Emily had come into his life, bringing him some peace. For that, Zac was truly grateful to her. “Emily’s been with you for three years,” Zac said, trying to speak up for her. “She’s an orphan, with no one else in the world. Isn’t it a bit cruel to treat her like this?” “Then I’ll keep her around,” Justin replied casually, brushing it off like it was no big deal. “But marriage? That’s not going to happen.” His tone was so offhanded, as if having another woman around didn’t matter at all. He didn’t see a problem with it. Keep her around? Really? Was he expecting her to stay hidden away as his stand-in lover, someone he kept out of sight? A mistress? A side piece? Emily didn’t leave the hospital right away. She sat on a bench behind the flower bed, letting the cold night air wash over her. She hadn’t expected to find out the truth like this. It turned out she was only here because she happened to look almost exactly like his lost one true love. And since she had lost her memory, he saw the perfect opportunity to mold her into the image of the woman he truly missed, hiding the truth from her and using her as a substitute. All the affection and indulgence he had shown her, it was never really for her. It was for the woman he had lost. Emma Xander. So that was her name, the one he had loved all his life. That was why he named her Emily, a name that allowed him to keep calling out for the one he had always loved. Even in their most intimate moments, he would call her “Em.” Whenever he whispered “Em” in that deep, seductive voice, full of passion, she would lose herself completely, sinking further into him. It turned out he was simply looking at her face and calling out another woman’s name all along. It dawned on her that the photo in Justin’s wallet must have been of Emma, not her. She had foolishly assumed the woman in that picture was herself. What a joke. From start to finish, Justin had shaped her into the image of his hidden love, his one true love. And she had naively believed that she had won him over, making him fall in love with her. In truth, she was nothing more than a piece in their story. Emily felt her heart plunge from a mountaintop to the depths of despair. She had gone from being a proud fiancée to a hidden stand-in, a shadow. She had liked, maybe even loved Justin. But her pride couldn’t accept that she had been someone else’s replacement all along, or that she was now the secret other woman. Resolved to leave, she felt a small sense of relief that Justin had only proposed. They weren’t married yet, and breaking up would be far easier than going through a divorce. For a moment, she felt grateful for Emma’s sudden appearance. “Miss Yates, where are you?” the driver called, stepping out of the car after waiting a while. “I’m here.” Emily pulled herself from her thoughts, putting on her usual calm expression. “Is it just you? Where’s Mr. Yates?” he asked. “He’s not coming back.” Emily rose from the bench by the flower bed and walked back to the car with the driver. She wore a cream-colored, knee-length dress in a sweet, innocent style. As an artist, she was open to trying any look, but it was Justin who had said he liked this style. So, for the past three years, she had dressed this way for him. The spring breeze brushed her bare calves, sending a chill through her. Zac looked a bit uncomfortable, “Emily didn’t leave?” So, she had heard everything they had said. Justin’s tone was just as indifferent, cold, and unfeeling. “Good. Let her hear it. She needs to know her place and avoid causing any more scenes like tonight.” With that, he turned and walked away from the garden, completely unfazed by the fact that Emily had overheard him. Emily sat quietly during the ride back to Villa One. Mrs. Zimmer greeted her at the door, her face lighting up warmly after a few days apart. “You’re back! It must’ve been tiring, traveling with Mr. Yates.” Emily nodded wearily, barely acknowledging her. “Yes.” “Where’s Mr. Yates?” Mrs. Zimmer glanced behind her, looking for Justin. “He won’t be back tonight.” Emily’s voice was detached, as if his return made no difference to her. Mrs. Zimmer looked slightly disappointed at first, but then her face lit up with a knowing smile, the kind that came from having seen a lot in life. She took Emily’s suitcase and gently urged her to go get some rest in the bedroom. Once inside, Emily understood Mrs. Zimmer’s smile. The room was dimly lit, with candles arranged at various heights, casting a soft, romantic glow. Flowers and scented candles adorned the surfaces, and a bottle of champagne sat open on the table. Even the usual heavy gray curtains had been replaced with delicate lace, adding an air of intimacy. The bed was covered in thick rose petals, the entire room transformed into a romantic setting. Clearly, this had been Justin’s arrangement before their trip. Exhausted, Emily didn’t have the energy to clean up, and it was too late to bother Mrs. Zimmer. Chapter 4 Emily found the remote to turn on the lights, then looked for something handy to snuff out each candle one by one. Afterward, she retrieved her nightgown from the closet and headed for a shower. As she walked into the bathroom, she noticed the ring still on her left hand. She slipped it off and tossed it into the corner of her jewelry box. When she returned to the bedroom, she brushed all the rose petals off the bed and settled under the covers, pulling them over her head. She instinctively lay on the left side of the bed, where she was used to sleeping. Justin would always hold her close, gradually shifting over to the left with her until they were practically glued together. Now, the right side of the bed was glaringly empty. To fill the space, she scooted to the center, tossing the extra pillow onto the floor, finally feeling comfortable. She turned off the lights and went to sleep. Two days passed without any word from Justin. He was likely at the hospital with Emma or busy with work. Emily didn’t care and hadn’t reached out, maintaining a complete radio silence. The morning sun was bright, and the spring breeze was warm as she lounged on a deck chair in the villa’s garden, enjoying a face mask. Her mind wandered to practical matters. She had spent some time reviewing the contract she signed three years ago to be Justin’s “contract lover.” It was set to expire automatically after three years, which was now less than four months away. When it ended, she would receive a payout of twenty million. Between that, and the allowance and holiday bonuses he had given her over the years, she had saved nearly six million. She had barely spent any of it, so it was all tucked away. It seemed she would be in decent shape financially, and finding a job after leaving wouldn’t be too hard. As for a place to live, she could buy a similarly sized home, and maybe invite Helen to move in as a roommate. It would be nice to have company. She did regret not being able to take Mrs. Zimmer with her. If she could, it would be perfect. The phone on the coffee table buzzed, interrupting her thoughts. Emily picked it up, unlocked it with her fingerprint, and a new message notification popped up at the top of the screen. She tapped to open it. It was from her friend, Helen Walker. They had met a year ago while shopping, when Helen insisted on becoming friends after seeing her just once. With no memory of any past friendships, Emily had found Helen easy to talk to, and they had gradually become close. “How was your time in Merika State? When are you coming back?” Helen had attached a mischievous emoji with a smirk. “I’m already back.” “Already? That was quick.” “I thought Justin looked strong. Guess he didn’t last long? Not up to it?” “Not just ‘not up to it’. He can’t even get started.” Emily replied, seizing the chance to curse him. On the other end, Helen raised an eyebrow. It looked like Justin had managed to tick off her friend. But she wasn’t too concerned as they had argued before. Couples fought, and it usually blew over. “Perfect timing then. I’m heading to the TC Mall in a bit to stock up on some new clothes. Let’s hit the mall together and grab some food afterward. Get ready and meet me there.” “Sounds good. I’ll see you at the mall.” Emily agreed readily. She had spent the past couple of days clearing out the sweet, youthful clothes she didn’t like. Her wardrobe could use a refresh. She put down the phone and washed off her face mask. Glancing at the nearly empty wardrobe, she picked out a casual athletic outfit and did a quick, simple makeup look. Fresh and tidy, she got ready to head out. “Mrs. Zimmer, I’m meeting a friend to go shopping. I’ll have lunch out,” Emily said, slinging her bag over her shoulder. “Alright, Miss Yates. Will you be back for dinner?” Mrs. Zimmer, who was supervising the housekeeper’s cleaning, looked up to ask. Emily paused while slipping on her shoes, thinking about how unpredictable Helen could be and that they hadn’t seen each other in a while. She might not be back for dinner. “Not sure yet. I’ll text you later if I’ll be back in time.” “Understood.” As Emily opened the door, she found Justin’s assistant, Sam Spencer, just about to knock. “Hi, Sam,” she greeted him coolly, planning to step around him to leave. “Hi, Miss Yates. Mr. Yates has a flight out of town this afternoon for a business trip. Could I trouble you to help pack his things before you go?” Sam’s tone was respectful, as usual. Emily didn’t move. “Mrs. Zimmer, Justin’s going on a trip. Could you please help with his packing?” “Miss Yates, this…?” Sam’s face showed confusion. “What? Before I came along, didn’t Justin have someone to handle his luggage?” Her expression was calm, her tone light. “Of course. You’re absolutely right, Miss Yates,” Sam replied, beads of sweat forming as he carefully balanced his response, not daring to offend either side. In the past, Emily had always packed for Justin’s business trips. She had done it so many times that she knew exactly what he would need for any occasion. But now, she had no desire to continue. He had used her as a stand-in, and every time he watched her pack his bags, he must have thought she looked foolish. Three years. Now that she thought back, there had been plenty of strange looks and behaviors from Justin that she hadn’t picked up on. She had been utterly blind. But she wouldn’t be foolish anymore. Emily was ready to leave, but Sam was blocking the door, preventing her from going. She urged Mrs. Zimmer to hurry with the packing. Mrs. Zimmer quickly filled the suitcase and handed it to Sam, who was waiting in the living room. He glanced at his watch. Ten minutes had barely passed. That was fast. "Mrs. Zimmer, are you sure it’s all packed? Should we check to make sure nothing’s missing?" he asked cautiously. Emily replied without emotion, “Isn’t the flight at noon? If you keep dragging your feet, he’ll miss it. Besides, anything he needs can be bought over there.” She checked her watch, starting to feel a bit pressed for time. If she delayed much longer, Helen would end up waiting impatiently, and they would miss out on shopping before lunch. And who wanted to try on clothes with a full stomach? “Of course, Miss Yates. I’ll head over to the office to pick up Mr. Yates,” Sam said with a polite smile, making his way out. Emily nodded and headed down to the garage. She chose a white luxury car and drove off. Meanwhile, Sam took the suitcase to the sleek black car parked discreetly by the curb. He placed it in the trunk, then settled into the front passenger seat. The driver, Justin’s bodyguard, William, started the car. But instead of heading to the airport, they were bound for Lichfield Hospital. “How much longer until Emily’s contract is up?” Justin’s voice was calm and emotionless, as if he were discussing a routine business matter. Sam immediately understood that the question was directed at him. He quickly recalled the contract details. “Less than four months, Mr. Yates.” “Draft a new agreement and deliver it to her when the time comes,” Justin instructed. Keeping her around for three years had cost him little, and continuing to support her wasn’t an issue. But he was done with her. He wouldn’t touch her again or return to Villa One. Recalling the scene from the hospital hallway two nights ago, he added without hesitation, “Include a clause that ensures she never shows up in front of Emma again.” Sam was momentarily taken aback but quickly regained his professional composure. “Understood, Mr. Yates.” Chapter 5 People said billionaires were cold and indifferent in their personal lives, switching women as easily as they changed clothes. For the past three years, Mr. Yates had only been with Miss Yates, making him seem like a devoted man. But it looked like he could move on in an instant. Who knew how long Miss Xander would last by his side? Sam had joined the company three years ago, right when Justin took over RC Corporation, so he wasn’t familiar with the complicated history between Emma and Justin. Inside TC Mall, Emily was browsing through clothes, each piece a far cry from her usual sweet and innocent style. “Babe, switching things up?” Helen asked, watching as Emily picked up a long black dress with a slitted hem. It would look stunning on Emily’s curves. Emily held the dress up to herself in the mirror, unfazed. “Yep, time for a change. Do you think this would look better with a shawl or a jacket?” She turned to give Helen a look. “A shawl, definitely. It’ll highlight your figure beautifully,” Helen replied with her usual style advice. “That’s what I thought too.” Helen eyed the dress. “That dress is so feminine. Will your guy even let you wear it out? Doesn’t Justin only let you wear those sweet, innocent schoolgirl outfits?” Helen couldn’t help but mentally criticize Justin’s taste. What kind of fashion sense did he have anyway? A multinational CEO, a man with a grip on the Haven State economy, yet he liked her to dress like a schoolgirl. “His taste doesn’t matter anymore. It’s not something I’m concerned about,” Emily replied casually, completely indifferent. She handed the dress to a fitting assistant with a similar build, having her try it on for her. High-end stores like this one often had staff who modeled the clothes for clients, so she didn’t have to try them on herself. Emily picked out a few more items in different styles for the assistant to model. If she liked them, she would buy them. When she was satisfied with her choices, she scanned her card and paid, then filled out the delivery details for Villa One. The clothes would be sent straight there. After they had finished shopping, they went for lunch. With no one else around, Emily finally shared her situation with Helen that she had been Justin’s stand-in for his one true love. Now that his true love had returned, she was planning to leave him. “That despicable man!” Helen burst out, her emotions flaring. “Keep it down.” Emily quickly covered Helen’s mouth and glanced around to see if anyone at nearby tables was paying attention to them. Helen lowered her voice but was still fuming. “Justin might look put-together, but he’s not even half a man. His first love disappears, so he goes and finds a stand-in? “Why didn’t he just get plastic surgery to look like her? Then he could see her every time he looked in the mirror. “Good for you for walking away. You should break up with him. No! Just breaking up is too good for that pompous human garbage! You need to dump him into the sewers!” LMAO, where did Helen even learn these insults from? Just then, the server brought out a tray with seasoned meats, fresh vegetables, and a variety of salsas. Emily began assembling her own tacos, adding the toppings she liked best. “The contract’s up in four months. I’m planning to buy a place.” “What for? Just stay with me. I’ve got a room for you.” “My address is still tied to Justin’s place. Since I’ve decided to leave, I need a clean break. I’ll need my own place to change everything over,” Emily explained, outlining her plan. Her heart felt numb now, no longer as raw as it had been the night she’d learned the truth in the hospital garden. “Then you can cancel your lease and move in with me! We’ll be family!" Emily suggested excitedly. Helen suppressed the impulse to tell Emily that they were already family. Given Emily's amnesia, she didn’t want to overwhelm her with too much information all at once. Instead, she nodded. “Alright, I’ll move in with you. I’ll start looking around for a place for you. Actually the place I rent now is quite nice. The location and neighborhood are perfect. I’ll check if the landlord’s interested in selling, though it’s a resale property.” “I don’t care if it’s new or used. As long as it’s clean and ready to go, I’m good.” Emily didn’t need much. After leaving the cushy life she had been used to, she was perfectly fine doing things on her own. She found the independence kind of refreshing. After lunch, they picked up some accessories to go with the new outfits, light enough to carry back on her own. Emily said goodbye to Helen and drove back to Villa One. By the time she got back, the clothes she had bought that morning had already been delivered, ironed, and neatly hung in the walk-in closet by the house staff. She hadn’t bought much, just enough to last the next few months and to keep the move as hassle-free as possible. The women’s side of the closet was nearly empty, with only a few of her favorite pieces hanging. She grabbed a new loungewear set to change into and happened to glance over at the men’s side, packed with Justin’s clothes. Emily didn’t linger. She strode past it without a second thought. As she was heading to the bathroom, her phone rang from the sofa. She put down the clothes and picked up the call. “Hello, is this Miss Yates?” “Yes, this is.” “I’m a nurse from Lichfield Hospital. Your health screening results are in. When would be a convenient time for you to come pick them up?” Emily remembered that Justin had taken her for a checkup just before their trip to Merika State. She had forgotten all about it until this call. “I’ll come by tomorrow morning.” “Very well. Have a nice day.” The next day, Emily went to Lichfield Hospital. “Plan to have a baby?” “That’s right. Mr. Yates specifically requested it during his screening. Your health is excellent, Miss Yates. Your ovulation cycle is regular, so we recommend folic acid, Vitamin B1, and plenty of protein. With the right timing and frequency, you should be expecting good news soon.” The doctor adjusted his glasses and smiled warmly. Emily’s fingers tightened around the report, a heavy feeling settling in her chest. She had been trying hard not to think about Justin lately, but this report hit her unexpectedly hard. “Miss Yates, I’ll prescribe you two boxes of folic acid and Vitamin B1. Be sure to take them regularly.” Emily interrupted him, finding an excuse to refuse. “Thanks, doctor, but that won’t be necessary. I’ll get them on my own.” The doctor wasn’t surprised. Wealthy women like her often had access to premium brands from various sources, so declining hospital-prescribed supplements wasn’t unusual. Emily left the hospital in a daze, only coming to her senses when she reached a sunny spot outside. She tossed the health report into the trash bin. With Emma back, Justin clearly had no intention of having children with her. And she certainly didn’t want to give him one, either. It was easier to pretend she didn’t know what the checkup had really been for. Meanwhile, in the hospital’s garden, the spring sunlight was warm and gentle. Justin was pushing Emma’s wheelchair, letting her enjoy the sunshine. “Justin, you’re busy with work. You don’t have to be here with me all the time. I can manage on my own,” Emma said, her voice soft and considerate. “Focus on getting better. Don’t worry about anything else.” Justin felt a deep guilt about Emma’s disappearance, blaming himself for not protecting her better. He believed his negligence had allowed her to be taken and vanish without a trace. Over the past few days, he had tried to gather clues from her about what happened, but whenever he brought it up, she would break down, unable to share any details. Emily hadn’t expected to see Justin at the hospital. Hadn’t Sam said Justin was out of town on a business trip?		Random Reading		353	https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683940	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/26/25, 5:21 PM	1739147242	1745706115		2524																										fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more			IMAGE	Read next chapter		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=673595984708315&exdata=F9458907D5605AE9170E3F4AA97806E74361806B296A38D6			1.0903469850659E+14	Popular romance stories	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476411909_1174397434427575_4995171292536423865_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eOwceo3lnEMQ7kNvgFDBGna&_nc_oc=AdjvKgcDfih68FhcaWtpQOaO6bC_iQUkp34j7TUFuOs8NOEyG4SZBjgdKeBQM5jOkhBtnAmW4hmq5bUq8AsjBKe4&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYDlRQGjgM-ZnFIZ5ryfS-m41QhDxrhZGLRuEmwFC_MhAw&oe=67AF13A2	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		On her wedding day, her stepsister set her up, framing her with accusations of promiscuity, academic fraud, and attempted murder. She was personally brought to court by her fiancé and imprisoned for three years, enduring inhuman torment! ===== 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) &9&		Popular romance stories		17983	https://www.facebook.com/100083149047490/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683931	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/26/25, 5:29 PM	1739147239	1745706553		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔥NEW POPULAR READ🔥		https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=18211&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}}			2.1900405462262E+14	Galaxy in the Story	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476391189_1912958579112917_1984456433160942391_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=StAp7lk2frcQ7kNvgGBF5Dw&_nc_oc=Adjq-XIraaKSTLBV4LQnKtmLkN5gv7VDbDZ_C0DG9nnnY5ppMh-igN8HVas5rbFeIHGZYVUHwYX1ipQ-jhIeK0RX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYDyq_zWq50Cv8eOFgRm733MNOrfdh91OSy9eUCseSAvZQ&oe=67AF2C87	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		I am standing here, watching as she packs her stuff. I have tried to talk to her, wanted to make her tell me what is going on in her head. I have tried to find out why my mate, my daughter’s mom, wants to leave me. I have been everything I possibly can be for her while she carried our daughter. I show her my respect and my trust. I had her help with the pack as my Luna. I thought we were good. “Mia, sweetheart, please talk to me. What happened?” I try to take her into my arms, but she steps away. “Don’t; I am done. I am tired of this.” She says, not even looking at me. “Tired about what? Mia, please.” I beg her. “Everything.” She sneers. “I hate this life; I hate being here. I hate being a mom. I wasn’t ready for that.” “You know we can’t control what happens when you go to heat Mia. We will manage. I will help you. Like I have been all the time. You’re not alone. She is ours.” “I don’t want her!” she screams at me. And I look at her. “Mia, please don’t do this. We can figure it out together,” I tell her. “No, you can keep her. I don’t want her. I just want to travel and enjoy my life. Not think about a mate or a baby.” “We can still travel, sweetheart.” She doesn’t answer. Grab her bags and turn to me. “No, I don’t want to be a mother. I don’t want her or you.” I gasped, already feeling my heart being ripped. “I, Mia Andrews, Reject you, Alpha Logan, and my daughter Rosalie. I denounce my role as Luna for the Pack.” My heart is being ripped apart. Feeling her rejection, also she denounces the pack. “Goodbye, Logan.” She left. She left and didn’t think twice about it. She left, ripping half of my heart. Titan was whining in my head, wanting his mate. I was on the floor, fighting not to fall apart. A loud cry rips through me, and I realize it is coming from the nursery. I get up and walk into the nursery, and there in her cradle, my little, sweet, beautiful baby girl is crying. I know, without a doubt, that she must have felt the family bond break when Mia rejected her as her daughter. I lift her. I know what I need to do, not only for my sake but for my daughter, who I now have to raise on my own. I can still feel the bit that is left of our bond after she rejected me. And I need to erase that if I am going to find out how to deal and move on. So I feel for the rest of our bond and find the mind link. ‘I, Nathan King, accept the rejection and denounce of my mate and Luna, and as the mother of my daughter. I, with this, ban her from the Pack.’ I feel the last piece of my bond with Mia disappear. I will devote myself to my little girl. Raise her to be a strong and kind person. I will fight to be everything she can need in her life. I will do anything to keep her safe and happy. My pack must have felt what happened, but I cannot deal with that today. Today it’s about me and my little rose. I am Logan King. I am nineteen and have been The Alpha of my pack. The strongest pack there is in North America since I was seventeen. Not only are we the strongest pack, but I am also the youngest Alpha and the strongest one seen in several decades. When I turned sixteen and didn’t get my wolf, my parents were worried, but the day I turned seventeen, Titan came to me, and I finally met my wolf. Everyone had been shocked by his size and the incredible strength and power that came from Titan. A few months after I had gotten Titan, our pack was attacked by rouges, and even though we won, I lost my parents. Despite only being seventeen, I was chosen to be the Alpha, and from that day, I have done everything to keep my pack safe. Chapter 2 OLIVIA - Present Time “Harder, Olivia. I know you can be better than this.” My brother Matt with the demanding tone of a teacher. Trying to satisfy him, I kick the bag harder and faster and do a series of mixed-up kicks and hits. Looking behind me, I see him nod approvingly. “Much better. Come sit down.” And I walk over and sit down next to my classmates. It’s Friday, and every Friday, he tests us. Sometimes like this where we show strength on the boxing bag. Other times we fight him or each other. My brother is an awesome teacher, but he is also trained by our dad, just like I am. Our dad is one of the best warriors in the pack, and for him, it doesn’t matter if you are a boy or a girl. Saying we live in a dangerous world, he thinks that every wolf should be able to fight, at the least, to protect themselves. So since I was a kid, I had been trained solely by my dad until I was old enough to join the first training program. Many say that dad is the best warrior, but when the old head warrior passed away, Alpha chose a close friend of his instead. Dad had said nothing and just went on with his life as usual. Taking care of Matt and me after our mom died from Wolfsbane, how she was poisoned no one knew. Being Friday, our Alpha, Alpha Colton, came by to see how training goes. I had started to become very uncomfortable whenever Alpha was around. Because of everything, I would find him following me around with his eyes. And when I caught him doing it, he would wink at me. Some pack members say that Alpha has started going insane after his mate and Luna was taken down during a rouge attack. They say he has become unpredictable and has ordered many female wolves to his room, where some of them didn’t leave from there alive. Everyone thinks he should retire and let his son Carter take over, but he refuses and says his son isn’t ready. Carter was okay, not someone I had ever had a whole lot of contact with, but he seemed fair and friendly with everyone in the pack. He was 22 years old and had yet to find his mate. I sat here, lost in my thoughts, and a big shadow suddenly covered me. Looking up, I saw Alpha Colton looking down at me before sitting down next to me. “You are a very skilled fighter, Olivia.” He said as he looked me over, his eyes checking out my curves. “Thank you, Alpha,” I answered, trying to hide, but it was hard since I was wearing shorts and a sports bra. “And very beautiful. You look just like your mother.” His eyes checked me out again, making me want to crawl out of my skin and hide. Before I can answer, my brother comes over and respectfully greet our Alpha before he tells me to go home for today. I jump up, grateful for being told to leave, and hurry out after saying my goodbyes. Entering our little house, I go straight to my room. Finding your mate is a huge deal. Your mate is your soulmate, the last piece of yourself. We can sense our wolves when we turn sixteen, but our wolves are not able to shift or recognize their mate before we turn eighteen. It does happen that a guy will sense his mate even though she is not eighteen. But most times that this happens, the guy waits without saying anything. It also happens that mates reject each other. For the one doing the rejection, it means he or she won’t get a chance of a second chance, mate, which happens mostly if someone loses their mate. But not everyone gets a second chance. We also don’t communicate with our wolf fully before turning eighteen. So we don’t talk all the time. Our communication is by emotions, which can be a little distracting if you get a sassy wolf. By dinnertime, I went downstairs and had dinner with my dad and brother. But unusual go how we always talk and have fun. It was quiet and tense. I didn’t ask why assuming dad must have had a stressful day. “Olivia?” “Yes, dad?” I looked up at him. “Tomorrow, I want you to pack a bag. We are going to visit your grandparents at another park. And we leave Sunday, so make sure to pack anything important you wouldn’t want to leave behind, as we will be gone for a while.” He tells me, making me look at him. “Why? Is something wrong?” I ask. “Your grandparents are getting old, and they miss you two. So we agreed we would go there for a while. It has all been agreed to by our Alpha to go visit some family and also the Alpha of the pack.” He explains. “Okay, dad. I will pack tomorrow.” I answer, and he smiles. When we are done eating, I help with cleaning up and then hug dad before I go to be at the party. Matt is joining me because she-wolf could be his mate, and he is becoming anxious about finding her soon. After being at the party for an hour, we saw the girl find her mate among one of the newly shifted guys. Again I was so lost in thoughts that I didn’t see the person approaching me before sitting next to me. And I am a little shocked to see Carter, the Alphas’ son, sit down next to me. “Hello, Olivia.“ He greets me. “Hello, Alpha Carter,” I answered respectfully. “Ah, I am not the Alpha, so just Carter.” He says, smiling, and I smile back “I hear you and your family are going to visit some family from another pack.” “Yes, we are,” I confirm. “That is great.” He says, still smiling, and after a little while, he stands up and mingles with the many teens here. After another few hours, Matt finds me, and we agree to go home. As we were on our way, we heard someone call our names, and someone came running toward us. Turning around, we are shocked to see it is Carter. Matt, Olivia.” He greets us before continuing. “I wanted to talk with you.” He says and looks at us. “What can we do for you, Alpha,” Matt says, taking charge. “Please, Matt, don’t call me Alpha, and I want to help you.” He says, and we look at him, me unsure about what he wants to help us with. “When you go visit the other pack. Don’t come back, especially you, Olivia. Stay there, where you can be safe.” “What do.” I begin, but Matt cuts in. “It is all under control Carter,” Matt says, looking at Carter, that looks back at him and nods. “Good, know I am sorry and trying to end it. I wish you all safe travels.” With those words, he left. Chapter 3 OLIVIA Matt had refused to say anything about what Carter had said and what he had answered him and just said I would understand soon. I nodded and then go to my room to have a good rest. When I wake up, the house is quiet, and I look at the time and see it is already 9 in the morning. This makes me wonder because usually, dad would have had us out running like we do every morning. Halfway down the stairs, I hear dad and Matt talk. “She knows something is up, dad.” “What do you mean?” “Carter came to us on our way home and told us not to come back and stay at that pack where she would be safe. I don’t think he meant any harm, though, but just wanted to help.” “Carter is a good boy.” “Yes, but now Liv is suspicious. I don’t think she knows what is going on with Alpha. But it’s clear she has been feeling uncomfortable.” Matt says. “I will talk to her when we have left here and are safely in our pack.” There is no answer to dad’s words, and after that and they begin to talk about other stuff. I know something is going on, and this something has something to do with me. After a little I move again and enter the kitchen, seeing both of them sitting by the table where breakfast is served. “Morning, Muffin. Are you feeling well?” My dad asks “Yes, we not going running?” I ask him, and he shakes his head. “I thought a day off was okay, so we have time to pack so we can leave in the morning.” “Okay, dad,” I say without showing he is hiding something. After breakfast, I go back to my room, find my biggest travel bag, and pack almost all my clothes in it. And in my smaller bag, I pack my stuff and a few items I have from my mom. I have a feeling that I will not be coming back here, so I want to be sure I have all the most important things packed. After I am done, I walk downstairs again to find dad. I find him in the kitchen talking on his phone, so I sit down and wait for him to finish. “That’s great, thank you. We will see you all tomorrow, probably in the late afternoon.” Dad says before hanging up. “That was your grandma. She can’t wait to see you and Matt. Did you finish packing?” He asks. “Yes, all packed and ready,” I confirm. “Great. Then rest here at home today so you won’t be too tired to travel.” He tells me, and I nod my head. I know that in those words was a hidden message. Don’t go outside today. “Okay, dad.” I was so bored being here at home, so I wore my air pods and turned on my music app, and before I knew it, I was singing along. Dad didn’t leave the house either, and Matt was also home. - LOGAN I was sitting in my office when someone knocked on my door. I told whomever it was to come in. The door opened, and my Beta Luca came inside the office. “I talked with the Jones, they talked with their son-in-law, and he will try to get them here by tomorrow.” He informed me. “Okay, get a house ready. See, if not, there is one close by the Jones family.” I tell him. “Will do. I also informed the warriors doing patrols for the next few days, just to be on the safe side.” “Thank you, that’s a good idea.” This is why he is my Beta, he always thinks ahead, and I don’t have to tell or remind him of things. And he is my best friend. We do a little small talking and talk about what to expect. A few days ago, I had a visit from Nina and Michael Jones, two highly respected members of my pack. They told me about how their Son-in-law had contacted them, asking for help. He told them that his pack Alpha was showing an unhealthy interest in his underage daughter, which worried him a lot, especially when his Alpha called him to the office. Offering him the role of being the pack head warrior if he would willingly give him his daughter to make his mate. The Alpha had lost his mate years ago, and now he had set his eyes on this young girl. Not only was she not eighteen, and she was a month away from her birthday. Not only is the Alpha in his 40s, but that is in no way acceptable to try to force someone to become their mate. So I told them they were all welcome here without thinking much about it. For some reason, my wolf was restless with this news. But his being restless is not something new. I don’t let him out as often as I should. Because I know he frightens most of my pack members. While Luca and I were talking, the door opened again, and before I knew it, I had my little Rose jumping up to sit on my lap. She is three years old now and turning four in 10 days. “Hello, daddy.” She says happily. “Hello, my little Rose. Are you ready for dinner?” “Yes, daddy.” We walk to the big dining room where pack members can choose to come and eat. After dinner, I took her up to my floor, and we spent time playing and later watching Beauty and the beast. Chapter 4 OLIVIA The day had been so boring, but because I didn’t want to worry my dad, I had not left the house all day. “Muffin, wake up.” I opened my eyes, startled, and I saw my dad nudging me gently to wake up. “Dad? What time is it.” “2:40, we have to go, Muffin. The car is packed. Get clothes on and come downstairs.” He got up and left me to get dressed. I was confused. But I got up and dressed in sweatpants and a hoodie. I wanted to feel comfortable while we traveled. I could feel how Skye was feeling anxious and nervous, and that made me nervous because I had never felt emotions like these from her. Coming downstairs, it did slip my trained eyes that Matt packed some weapons in a bag. And as wolves, we never use actual weapons. We are a weapon ourselves. So it did not ease my frustration and nervousness to see him pack them. “Dad is in the car. Let’s go.” He tells me. We walk outside and see dad in the car but with the lights off. We get in Matt in the passenger seat, and I sit in the back. Dad slowly drives away from the house, and I get the feeling that I will never see it again. When we reach the border of our territory, two patrols step forward, together with another tall figure we first can’t see who is. As we get closer, I see it is Carter, and dad rolls his window down a little. “Mr. Moore. Good to see you got here undetected.” He greets dad, who nods at his words. “Thank you, Alpha. For everything.” Dad says. “I am not Alpha yet, so it’s just Carter. I wish you safe travels and a future.” “Thank you, Carter. You’re a good person.” They shake hands, then dad starts driving again, and soon we are out of the territory, and dad turn on the lights on the car when we hit the main road. Four hours after we left the territory, dad held into a gas station at tank gas. When he was done and had come back inside the car, he turned to look at me. “Muffin, I am going to ask you to do something very difficult, and it will make you feel weak for a while until we get to that pack,” Dad says and looks at me. “Do what, dad?” I ask him. “We have to denounce our place as a pack member of the Dark Forest Pack. But it will just be until we get to the pack, then their Alpha will invite us into his Pack.” “But why? You don’t have to do that just to visit another Pack.” I say, I know something is up, and I want to know. “We have to leave Dark Forest. Alpha is not in his right mind. And he is interested in you, Dad tells me, and I feel disgusting. “But he is so old. How can he think I would want to do that.” I ask. “He doesn’t care about that, Liv,” Matt says, using my nickname. “Your mother’s parents talked to their Alpha, and he has offered us a place there. He is a young Alpha but very, very strong. We will be safe there, and you will be safe there.” Dad says. “Okay.” “We will talk more when we are there, okay?” Dad asks, and I nod my head. And then we all denounce our place as pack members of the Dark Forest. The first dad did it, then Matt, and then it was my turn. “I, Olivia Moore, daughter of Klaus and Nora Moore, denounce my place as a pack member of the Dark Forest Pack and choose to become a rouge.” It frustrates me so badly that I feel the pack link break and the feeling of belonging somewhere disappeared. I gasped in pain for just a second. “I know it hurts, muffin, but it’s for the best.” Dad soothes me, and I nod my head. After it was over, Dad started driving again, and then the sounds of a phone rang. Matt looked at dad’s phone. “It’s Alpha Colton.” He tells Dad. And he let it ring out, but then his phone started ringing, and when it was left unanswered, mine announced an incoming call from a number I didn’t know. “Don’t answer. Save your pictures and anything else important to the sky, then turn off your phone and throw it out the window so that they can’t trace us.” Dad says, and we do as he is told us. “But doesn’t he know where we are going?” I ask as I throw my phone out the window. “Not entirely. I told him we were visiting some of your mother's family. And he knows she has two sisters that both moved to other packs when they found their mates. So it could be anywhere that we go too.” Dad tells me. And I nod I realized that there must have been so much planning put into this. And I knew it was not an overreaction, I mean, I had noticed how Alpha Colton always seemed to put his eyes on me, and it always made me feel so uncomfortable. After another 3 hours of driving and one bathroom break, we left the main roads and came into an area with the most amazing forest I had ever seen. And on the horizon far back, I could see big mountains shoot up and a waterfall, I think. None of us said anything for a long time, and I just looked out of the window, rolling it down and taking in the fresh air. I gasped when I saw something huge move fast between the trees, and a scent of pinewood and caramel hit my nose, but before I could properly see it, it was gone. After a bit of time, dad stopped the car in the middle of nowhere, and just as I was about to ask why we stopped, four big men stepped out onto the road. Two of them were warriors, but the last two were even bigger, one being bigger than the other. The two warriors stayed where they were, but the smallest one of the two others began walking towards our car. Dad looked at us, told us to stay in the car, and then got out. They shook hands when he met the person in front of our car. They talked a little, and dad walked with him to meet the other person. I tried to get a good look at him, but it was like he avoided looking our way. And soon, dad returned to the car and smiled as he got in. “That was the Beta and the Alpha himself. We were out for a run when he sensed us. We will follow the Beta while the Alpha returns to the pack and waits for us.” He says. “He is one big wolf, isn’t he?” Matt says. “He is, and I have never felt a power like the one coming from him, so be respectful.” Dad answer and starts the car to follow the big wolf that the Beta shifted into. Chapter 5 LOGAN Oh, no! I had so much pent-up restless energy today, so when the morning training session was over, I decided to go for a run, informed my pack and patrols, and then ran. I had been running for a while when Titan began to slow down and become aware of our surroundings. ‘Someone is here.’ His powerful voice tells me in my head. ‘It is probably the family we are waiting for to arrive.’ I remind him. And he takes a turn towards the roads. And I mind linking Luca, telling him I think they have arrived. When we get closer, I catch the faint smell of something delicious, and the scent is getting closer. I see the car driving towards the pack nearly by the road, and the scent gets stronger. I can now say exactly that it’s the scent of strawberries and chocolate, the two things I enjoy to ear more than anything. I can see three people in the car, and I freeze when I realize the scent got stronger because a window had gotten rolled down slightly, and the most beautiful girl I have ever seen is looking out. ‘What? Titan, get us out of here.’ I say to Titan, and he reluctantly speeds up and runs ahead of the car. ‘That girl, she is our mate.’ I hear Titan tell me, and I feel bad. ‘She can’t be. She is not 18. And I will not be a loser and come claiming her like their old Alpha.’ I tell him. ‘I am telling you she is our mate. I could even feel her wolf. And sometimes we can sense our mate even if the other is not of age.’ He argues. Just what I need, and not what this girl needs. But if Titan is right, this girl is my second chance. ‘We can’t tell her, Titan. We can’t scare her like that. She is turning eighteen in a month or so. We will have to wait, you hear me.’ There was no way I was going to scare her by claiming her now. ‘Titan, I mean it.’ I say when he doesn’t answer. ‘Okay. But we need to keep her safe.' He reluctantly agrees with me. ‘Of course, and we will.’ I mind linking Luca again, asking him to come to meet him and welcome them. Longer up the road, I know that the father, who is a warrior, must have sensed us because he stopped the car and then he just waited. I already like that person. What he is doing is a clear signal of respect and shows us they do not want any trouble. We step out on the road together with two warriors, and a person steps out of the car. I try to keep my attention on the person, but it is hard when I can smell her being so close. I watch Luca go and greet him before they both come back to me. “Alpha, thank you for letting us come here.” The person says as he bows his head. I could feel that here before. I am a very strong and proud wolf. “Mr. Moore, Welcome to our pack. I am happy I can help.” I tell him. “It means more than I can explain. And please call me Klaus.” He says. “Very well, is it your children in the car?” I ask. “Yes, Alpha, it is my son Matt and my daughter Olivia.” I have to stop myself from not starting to smile when I hear her name. “We have a house ready, but before going there, I would like you all to come to my office so that we can make you all pack members. It is safer to get it over with so no one mistake you for being a rouge.” I tell him, without saying it is the first step to make sure Olivia is safe. “Yes, Alpha, as you wish.” He says and bows his head again. “Luca will show you there. I will run ahead and wait.” I tell them, and with that, I go back to the forest and shifts to run home. - OLIVIA We drove behind the Beta in his wolf form, and before we knew it, we stopped in front of a huge house that could only be the packhouse. The Beta went to some trees and bushes next to the house and came back dressed in a pair of sweatpants, motioning for us to get out of the car. We all got out, and I noticed the scent I had smelled got stronger. If it always smells like this here, I won’t mind being here because it smells amazing. “Hello, welcome to our pack. My name is Luca, and I am the Beta here.” The Beta tells Matt and me as he already had talked with dad. “Hello, Beta.” We both greet him respectfully. “Just call me Luca.” We both nodded. “It is nice to meet you,” I said, and he smiled. “As you probably can figure out, this is the packhouse. The packhouse has three floors. The ground floor and first floor are open to any pack member, and the top floor is only accessible when permitted by the Alpha. The ground floor has a kitchen, dining room, ballroom, Alpha’s office, and several rooms for various activities for the packs' kids and young ones. The next floor is bedrooms, all with their bathrooms, pack members especially the teens like to come to stay here. And it is also where quests visiting for official reasons stay.” Beta Luca tells us as we enter the house. When we enter, we can hear how busy the house is. And as we looked around, I was drawn to a room where the sound of someone singing caught my attention. Looking into the room, I see a bunch of teens my age having fun with the different games and karaoke machine that is in there. I feel Matt, my dad, and the Beta come up behind me. “This looks great,” Matt says. “Yes, and it keeps them from going into the human town too much. We also have a hangout with a café. Gyms and so on.” “Um.” A sound came from behind us, and without turning around, it was like my entire body knew that the Alpha was standing right behind us. “Alpha, I was giving a quick tour. We were on our way to your office.” Beta Luca said, smiling. Turning around, my eyes fell on the most handsome person I had ever seen. He has dark brown hair and is muscular with an eight-pack, which I can see because he is still not wearing a shirt. But it is his hypnotizing forest green eyes that I can’t move my eyes away from. I realized I was staring at an Alpha right in his eyes and gasped as I hurried to bow my head. “Alpha, I am sorry,” I whispered. A burst of deep laughter reached my ears, making me shiver deliciously. “You do not have to apologize. I am not so formal. Now, let us all go into my office.” He says and smiles.		Galaxy in the Story		2320	https://www.facebook.com/61555427913037/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683942	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/14/25, 5:56 AM	1739147244	1749898596		2524																										fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more			IMAGE	Read next chapter		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/67687322-fb_contact-ena255_2-0124-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=934080944896999&exdata=898E73583E5F98791E8F7022DD04FC3B35BFA2764FFCB572			1.116928118368E+14	Heat Novel A	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475925965_1332614288170926_3259521906367901349_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p1FXTvC0oGUQ7kNvgGvinuj&_nc_oc=AdiwMG7oFXys3hKXJbqMJle7fspjqikA7YCWsWe8Yu7-H1Xpmy_RS6saJR8iJFswJ2DfMxFXImTyiqy1dw_FOzyI&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYAxvgz6d75Yx2jvRqInfNl3JhV9cb5mqBnLzzQBrdI9xA&oe=67AF3490	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		To survive, she climbed into her so-called uncle's bed. Two years later, she realized she was just a toy. Heartbroken, she left after seeing him at his first love's prenatal checkup. ===== The winters in Ulares were bone-chilling, but inside Cloudscape Mansion, the air was thick with warmth and passion. "Uncle Ethan…" Nyla Green gasped, her voice catching. Ethan's lips quirked into a satisfied smirk. "Being so well-behaved tonight, aren't you?" "Don't you like it when I'm well-behaved?" The hunger in Ethan's eyes was undeniable. "What is it you want?" Settling into the armchair by the window, he asked, his mood seemingly lighter than usual. "Will you give me anything I ask for?" Nyla's voice was soft, hesitant, her hopeful gaze fixed on his sharp, handsome face. "Depends on what it is," Ethan replied evenly. "I want to be Mrs. Brooks." The warmth in Ethan's expression disappeared, replaced by a glacial stare that sent a chill down her spine. Nyla's heart sank as he let out a mocking laugh. "I've been too soft on you," he said coldly. "You think that gives you the right to ask for something like that?" Nyla bit her lip, "Callie's back, isn't she? You're planning to marry her, aren't you?" Callie Higgins--the name itself was enough to twist Nyla's gut. She was Ethan's first love--the woman who had once saved his life from kidnappers when he was eighteen. After the incident, their families agreed that Ethan and Callie would get engaged when the time was right. Ethan's expression flickered, just for a moment, but it was enough for Nyla to know she'd struck a nerve. She'd been with him for two years; she knew him well. "I just want a status. You know how hard it is for me in the Brooks family. Without protection, I--" "Protection?" Ethan cut her off, his tone sharp. In a flash, he was in front of her, gripping her chin firmly. His dark eyes bored into hers, fierce and unyielding. "Do you think I don't see through you, Nyla? You think you're worthy of being Mrs. Brooks?" Chapter 2 Time To Let Go "Ethan Brooks, you haven't changed a bit--still as cold-hearted as ever," Nyla snapped. The warm atmosphere had long since turned to ice. Nyla's expression was calm, though her intentions were anything but hidden. Tears glimmered in her defiant eyes. "If you're not willing to give me what I want, then this is it. From today, we're done. Beyond being my step-uncle, you have nothing to do with me anymore." Ethan's sneer was sharp, cutting through the tension like a bl*de. "You're the one who climbed into my b*d back then. And now you want to walk away? Nyla, do you really think I'm that easy to deal with?" It had been a while since the Green family's sudden collapse. Overnight, Nyla's world unraveled. Her father, Lorenzo Green, took his own life to prove his innocence, and her brother was thrown behind bars. Her mother, desperate to survive, became the mi**ress of Ethan's elder brother, Ryland Brooks. When Ryland's wife passed away, Nyla's mother--pregnant with Ryland's child--married him. The Brooks family made no secret of their disdain. Nyla had always known her place, keeping her distance from the Brooks family whenever possible. But they never intended to stop tormenting her. Out of options, she had turned to Ethan. As the current leader of the Brooks family and one of the most powerful men in Ulares, Ethan was the only one who could offer her protection. "So, what do we call this... arrangement?" Her voice was low, almost mocking. Ethan's gaze lingered on her face--dangerously beautiful, the kind that brought chaos wherever it went. "If you want something else, I might consider it," he said, his tone indifferent as he released her. The implication was clear: he wasn't letting go, not yet. Bitterness rose in Nyla's throat. She could endure being his b*dmates, but she wouldn't let herself become the other woman. That was one boundary she refused to cross. "Ethan, I'm tired. This... whatever it is, it's over." The word "over" felt hollow--Ethan had never acknowledged what they had in the first place. She pulled her torn dress over her body, her hands trembling but her resolve firm. Ethan's expression darkened. "What are you trying to prove with this tantrum?" Nyla paused, holding herself together with every ounce of willpower. She stood tall, meeting his gaze. "Mr. Brooks, if you can't give me what I want, then let's not waste any more time. I need to move on." Her words struck a nerve. Ethan grabbed her arm, "Move on? To who?" His voice dripped with menace. "Who else could ever satisfy you like I do? Don't act like this was all some mistake. You crawled into my b*d, Nyla. Don't think I'll let you forget that." Nyla's composure cracked as anger flared in her chest. She glared at him, tears brimming. "So what if I did? I regret it! You're going to marry Callie, and I'm supposed to sit here and wait for your scraps? I may be shameless, Ethan, but I'm not that pathetic." The air between them was suffocating, heavy with unspoken truths and unbearable tension. A sudden ring shattered the silence. Ethan glanced at his phone, irritation flickering across his face. He was about to ignore the call until he saw the name. Callie. He released Nyla and answered without hesitation. Nyla watched in silence, her heart sinking at his gentle tone. He'd only ever used it with her in b*d. She felt the humiliation settle deep in her ch*st. "I'll be there soon." Ethan finished the called and then dressed. He turned to Nyla. "I'll have Jackson transfer the money to your account. Don't even think about leaving." The door clicked shut behind him. Nyla sat still, staring at the empty space he left behind. Then, with a bitter laugh, she wiped her tears away. If she couldn't have what she wanted, then she'd take back what little was left of her dignity. It was time to let go. Chapter 3 So What If I Am? Nyla, now in her senior year of college, had already begun her internship while managing her own studio--a venture she had started during her junior year. She specialized in fashion design, and her studio was her pride and joy. But lately, the pressure from competitors had been relentless. Someone clearly wanted her out of Ulares. Despite the frustration, Nyla refused to back down. After a restless night, her body ached as she got ready for the day. She couldn't bring herself to wear her usual professional attire, opting instead for a casual outfit. Even in simple clothes, her elegance and charisma turned heads wherever she went. As she walked into the studio, her receptionist hesitated before approaching her. "Miss Green... um, your mother is here," she said nervously. "We tried to stop her, but... she's holding a baby, and we didn't want to risk anything." Nyla gave her a reassuring smile. Her mother, Vicki Brooks, was difficult to deal with. "It's fine. I understand. You can get back to work." Relieved, the receptionist nodded and returned to her desk. Nyla's studio wasn't large, but every inch of it reflected her touch. She had designed the interior herself, favoring a minimalist elegance that radiated sophistication. In the lounge area, she spotted her mother cradling a baby in her arms. Nolan Brooks, a premature baby, had come into the world when Vicki was in her forties. His arrival had nearly cost both their lives, and since then, Vicki's world revolved entirely around him. Standing silently in the doorway, Nyla observed her mother. Vicki's expression softened as she gently rocked Nolan, her maternal warmth unmistakable. For a fleeting moment, Nyla saw the woman Vicki used to be--a gentle, understanding wife and mother, back when the Green family was intact. But that version of her mother was gone. Now, Vicki was only a mother to Nolan. The thought stung, but Nyla pushed the feeling aside and walked into the lounge. She sat across from Vicki, who glanced up briefly before returning her attention to Nolan. Nyla's assistant quickly brought over a cup of coffee and slipped away without a word. Picking up the cup, Nyla stirred it slowly, the clinking of the spoon breaking the silence. "Why are you here?" she asked, her tone even. Vicki's gaze flickered disapprovingly over Nyla's casual outfit. "You're going out dressed like that? Don't you realize you're representing the Brooks family now? Everything you do reflects on us." Leaning back on the sofa, Nyla replied with a calm, measured voice, "My last name is Green. I've never been part of the Brooks family." Vicki's lips tightened, her frustration evident. "You--" She stopped herself, glancing down at Nolan, who stirred in her arms. Lowering her voice, she continued, "Ryland has arranged a date for you tomorrow at Delight Restaurant. You'll be meeting the second son of the Fowler family. He's from a respectable background, and it's time you start thinking about your future." Nyla raised an eyebrow, a bitter smile tugging at her lips. The second son of the Fowler family had recently been released from prison. Ryland certainly had a knack for picking matches. "I don't have time," Nyla replied dismissively, taking a sip of her coffee. Vicki's composure cracked. "No time? You didn't go to school or your studio yesterday. And you didn't come home last night either. I heard you were at a bar." She had done her homework. Nyla's late-night escapades and partying were the reason Vicki had stormed over. That kind of behavior was unacceptable. If it weren't for Nolan dozing off in her arms, she'd have already started yelling. Then Vicki's sharp eyes zeroed in on a faint red m*rk on Nyla's neck. Her expression darkened. "What's that on your neck?" she hissed. "I'm warning you, Nyla. If you're fooling around, I won't tolerate it!" Nyla paused mid-sip, setting her cup down deliberately. She met Vicki's glare with calm indifference. Her mother still looked youthful despite her age. Money sure did wonders, Nyla mused. "And what if I am?" she said, leaning back. "You haven't cared about me in years, so why pretend now? Take your precious son and leave." Chapter 4 Family Dinner "Nyla!" Vicki shot to her feet, her sudden movement jolting Nolan awake in her arms. The baby let out a wail that pierced through the studio. "It's okay, Nolan. Shh, you're okay," Vicki murmured, turning her attention to him and pointedly ignoring Nyla. "We'll go home soon, sweetheart. Be good for Mommy." Nyla rubbed her ears, the irony of the scene grating on her nerves. Without a word, she turned to leave. "Don't forget." Vicki's strained voice rang out behind her. "I've always been the one begging for help for your brother. Do you have any idea how much he's suffered in prison? And your sister-in-law? I've been the one sending her money to survive. If you had even a shred of consideration for me, you'd listen to what I say!" Nyla froze mid-step, her gaze drifting up to the ceiling as a wave of helplessness rolled over her. After the incident all those years ago, her brother had been jailed, and her pregnant sister-in-law had been so traumatized she ended up hospitalized. The baby--already five months along--couldn't be saved, and her sister-in-law's health had never recovered. The family sold everything they owned, borrowed from anyone who'd listen, and still came up short. Eventually, their options ran dry, and even close relatives cut ties. Nyla's sister-in-law finally gave up, saying she didn't want to be a burden. Vicki's marriage into the wealthy Brooks family had brought temporary relief, but her sister-in-law's lingering illness had turned into a lifelong battle--one that drained both money and hope. And Vicki, to her credit, had been the one subsidizing the expensive treatments. Nyla's fingers curled and relaxed along the edge of her sleeve--a quiet gesture of powerless compromise. "Fine. I'll go." Vicki let out a relieved sigh, her tone softening. "There's a family dinner at the Brooks Mansion tonight. Leave work early and make sure you're there. You can't miss it." Nyla felt an immediate headache brewing. She'd planned to avoid Ethan for at least a little while longer, but her plans were thwarted before they'd even begun. "I know you hate going to these things, but think about me. Think about your little brother. He's just a child, Nyla. If you don't look out for him, who will? Please, just do this for me." Vicki's words left no room for refusal. Nyla was at a loss for words. Her mother asked her to protect Nolan, but who would protect her? The Brooks family wore their civility like sheep's clothing, but beneath it, she knew better. They were wolves--every single one of them--and none would spare her if given the chance. And yet, Nyla never voiced these grievances to Vicki. It would only be pointless. Vicki would call her immature, blame her for the Brooks family's hostility, insist that Nyla brought it all upon herself. So Nyla could only swallow her resentment. Later that afternoon, Nyla left work early as instructed. She took her time getting home and changed clothes, knowing Vicki would nitpick if she didn't look the part. She settled on a gray, short tweed jacket over a black skirt--poised, polished, and appropriately elegant. Nyla despised the cold. If it weren't for the Brooks family gathering, she would have bundled herself in two down jackets and called it a day. These social charades were a performance she loathed--hollow and suffocating. But Vicki insisted she need to integrate. Half an hour later, Nyla stepped out of the taxi in front of the imposing Brooks Mansion. Just as she turned to head inside, a sleek Maybach pulled up beside her. Nyla didn't intend to acknowledge anyone--until the license plate caught her eye. Ethan's car. The tinted window rolled down slowly, and two faces came into view--elegant, pristine, and altogether too perfect. "Hello, Nyla." A woman's voice broke the moment. "I'm Callie." Chapter 5 Rivals In Love Nyla had imagined meeting Callie in countless scenarios. Maybe it would happen during one of those stolen moments with Ethan, where they'd be caught red-handed. Or perhaps at Callie and Ethan's engagement party, where Nyla would dutifully offer her congratulations as a younger member of the Brooks family. But never like this--never with Callie deliberately approaching her. Nyla glanced at Ethan, suspicious. Was he behind this? But Ethan's gaze remained locked on her, his dark eyes betraying nothing. Those eyes had a way of pulling people in. She quickly looked away, her voice cold. "Hello. Did you need something?" Nyla didn't like the Brooks family, and she liked Callie even less. Callie was, after all, a rival in love. "Oh, nothing at all. I'd just heard Ethan had a breathtakingly beautiful niece, and I couldn't resist coming to meet you. I hope that's all right," Callie replied, her voice soft and syrupy, the kind of tone that made others instinctively want to protect her, a stark contrast to Nyla's cool tone. "You're exaggerating. I'm just an ordinary person." An ordinary person who was all too easy to manipulate. The moment the words left her mouth, Nyla felt Ethan's gaze on her--sharp, teasing. She met his eyes, her expression frosty, but he didn't look away. Instead, his lips parted, and his cool voice cut through the air. "Let's go. Don't waste time on people who don't matter." Callie offered an apologetic smile. "We'll head in, then. Would you like to join us? It's a bit of a walk." The words "people who don't matter" stung more than Nyla cared to admit. Last night, Ethan had been so close--so possessive he wouldn't let her leave--and now he was acting like a stranger. Huh. If Ethan chose acting as his career, he would win the Best Actor award, and Nyla would gladly be the one throwing tomatoes at his acceptance speech. Plastering on a bitter smile, she replied, "No thanks. I don't feel comfortable riding in a stranger's car." Without waiting for a response, she turned and walked away. Behind her, the sleek Maybach sped off, its icy wind brushing her cheeks and nearly drawing tears from her eyes. But she refused to cry--not here, not at the Brooks family estate. The sprawling Brooks Mansion loomed ahead, its gardens and private villas spread across more than seven thousand square feet. It was the largest private residence in Ulares and an unyielding symbol of the Brooks family's influence. The family dinner was held in the main house of the estate, and by the time Nyla arrived, the room was already packed. Her eyes immediately found Ethan, standing beside Callie, who was chatting amicably with the wife of Ethan's second brother. They looked disturbingly at ease with one another. "Why are you so late? Didn't I tell you to leave work early?" The voice belonged to Vicki, who appeared beside Nyla in a black gown and white mink shawl, exuding effortless grace. Nyla forced a smile, though she detested the way Vicki had shed her real self to fit into the Brooks family mold. "It's a long drive. Besides, I'm here now, aren't I?" Her eyes roved over the crowd. Faces turned her way, some barely hiding their disdain. "Honestly, we shouldn't have bothered coming." Vicki tightened her grip on Nyla's hand, her voice dropping to a whisper. "If you listened to Ryland and made connections with the Fowler family, we wouldn't be in this position." Nyla's tone sharpened. "If you're in such a rush, feel free to go see my blind date yourself." "Don't be ridiculous!" Vicki hissed, glancing around nervously. The last thing she wanted was to cause a scene here. "Then stop nagging me," Nyla retorted. "Unless you want me to make a real fuss." Vicki bit back her frustration, unwilling to press further. Nyla slipped away and found an empty corner, determined to stay invisible until the endless family dinner wrapped up. But, of course, the peace didn't last. "Nyla, why are you sitting here all by yourself? Are you feeling out of place?" Callie's sugary voice rang in her ear. "I can show you around if you'd like." Chapter 6 Definition Of Decorum "Thank you, I appreciate your concern, Miss Higgins, but that won't be necessary." Nyla blinked leisurely, suppressing a yawn. The previous night had been relentless and exhausting, and as she sat in the quiet corner, weary and disinterested, she had thought no one would disturb her. Unexpectedly, Callie had come over, initiating conversation. As Nyla observed the gentle expression on Callie's face, a sardonic grin took root in her thoughts. She now understood Ethan's distaste for her; he evidently preferred someone more like Callie. "Leave her be, Callie. That woman is nothing but trouble. Who knows who she'll charm next? You're too good for her." These words came from Stella Brooks, the daughter of Ethan's second brother. Nyla turned toward Stella, her expression teasingly challenging. "Perhaps you're right. Maybe I should seek out Lukas for an enlightening chat in his bedroom. He'd probably appreciate it. And perhaps tomorrow I'll drop by Austen's place--I still know how to get in." Lukas Brooks, Stella's younger brother, had been captivated by Nyla from the start, wanting nothing more than to stay by her side. His family, convinced of Nyla's manipulative charm, met her with cold disdain. Consequently, Lukas found himself transferred to a distant boarding school. Austen Mitchell, the focus of Stella's unrequited affections, had grown up next door to Nyla. Their families were intertwined, and he always saw Nyla as kin, a fact unknown to many. This was the root of Stella's vehement animosity toward Nyla. Originally, Nyla endured her insults, but Stella's escalation to physical threats forced Nyla to retaliate. "Shame on you!" Stella seethed, her cheeks burning. "Don't think for a moment you belong in the Brooks household just because you share our roof! You're no better than your mother. It's clear now why your family crumbled--you thrive on being a shameless intruder!" Shadows flickered in Nyla's eyes, her fist tightening inside her sleeve, though her expression remained calm. "Has Austen actually accepted your advances? You seem to be the one relentlessly pursuing him. He freely opens his door to me. Can you say the same? Your efforts seem futile. He shows no interest in you." Stella's eyes welled up, her hand lifted for a slap, but Callie intervened just in time. "Stella, that was uncalled for. Why would you say such things?" Callie's voice carried the weight of a mentor scolding a student. Flushed and tearful, Stella bit her tongue following Callie's sharp scolding. With a restrained smile but firm voice, Callie maintained her composed aristocratic air. "You're under the Brooks' roof now, Nyla. It's high time to leave your old ways behind. We expect decorum in a family of the Brooks family's standing." Nyla noted Callie's attempt to shame her and wondered about her motives. Her secret with Ethan was safe. What was driving Callie's hostility? Was it just a personal dislike? Nyla's lethargy vanished, replaced by simmering annoyance. "Stella called me a shameless intruder and hurled insults, yet you don't accuse her of indecorum. I merely stated some facts, less harshly than her, and yet here you are, Miss Higgins, accusing me of impropriety." Nyla's voice was measured as she locked eyes with Callie, her laughter tinged with scorn. "So, this is your definition of decorum, Miss Higgins? Your upbringing must indeed be exemplary." Chapter 7 Lecture Me On Callie's Behalf? Callie's expression shifted, her eyes softening with a tinge of apology. "I didn't mean it like that," she said gently. "I just thought… it might help you to fit in better with the Brooks family." Nyla's gaze swept over the two women in front of her. Stella still looked like she was ready to tear her apart, while Callie's carefully composed friendliness had started to crumble. Suddenly, the family dinner didn't seem so dull after all. One person warned her not to dream too big about the Brooks family, and the other subtly reminded her of her place as an outsider. How delightfully amusing. "And what does that have to do with you, Miss Higgins?" Nyla asked, standing abruptly. A sly smile curved her lips as she added, "Stella does have a point, though. Who knows who I'll charm next? Maybe one day… Ethan will end up in my b*d too. Instead of worrying about me, Miss Higgins, you might want to keep an eye on yourself." The smile vanished as quickly as it had appeared. Without waiting for a response, Nyla turned and strode toward the garden. "You b**ch! How dare you even think about Uncle Ethan!" Stella's shrill voice pierced the air. "Callie, see? She doesn't deserve your kindness. She's shameless!" Callie's eyes lingered on Nyla's retreating figure, all pretense of kindness gone. Her voice was cold and measured. "Just an outsider. Does she really think the Brooks family will protect her? Let's see how long she lasts." The garden, though chilled by the winter air, offered a quiet sanctuary to Nyla. Dinner still hadn't been served--Roger Brooks, Ethan's father, hadn't arrived yet. Nyla was grateful she wasn't particularly hungry. Otherwise, she might have had an outright clash with Vicki and left. Most of the flowers had withered, leaving the once vibrant landscape barren and forlorn. She studied the decayed flowers, finding an odd comfort in their desolation. Settling onto a swing tucked in the corner of the garden, Nyla pushed herself back and forth lightly, lost in thought. The Ethan situation was spiraling. If things ended between them now, her carefully laid plans would collapse. When she first approached Ethan, she'd told herself it was all calculated--a means to an end. But somewhere along the way, her emotions had betrayed her. She'd been starved of love for so long that the taste of it--however fleeting--had made her greedy. She didn't want to let him go. "Do you think you can hide out here after stirring trouble?" Ethan's voice cut through the stillness, sharp yet calm. "Do you think the Brooks family is that forgiving?" Nyla froze for a second before resuming her lazy swaying. The light from the house spilled onto her figure, casting her in an ethereal glow that made her seem almost otherworldly--a delicate flower in a crumbling garden. She tilted her head slightly, her hair spilling across her chest, and smiled faintly. "So, are you here to lecture me on your future fiancée's behalf?" Her eyes, glimmering with playful defiance, locked onto his. Ethan hated and loved those eyes--the mischievous glint that made her look like a sly little fox, always drawing him closer. "You're getting bolder." "If that's your reason, you can save your breath," Nyla retorted, bitterness threading her words. "I won't apologize. And you don't have to remind me of my place either. Whether the Brooks family hates me or not is none of your concern. After all, I'm just… insignificant, right?" Ethan's expression darkened instantly. He crossed the distance between them in a few long strides and pulled her down onto his lap as sat on the swing, its frame gr*aning under their combined weight. "Have you already forgotten who was in my b*d yesterday, pleasing me?" Nyla's eyes widened as she struggled against him, "Let go of me! Ethan, this is the Brooks Mansion. Someone will see!" ...... 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&		Heat Novel A		604	https://www.facebook.com/100089743291944/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683935	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/26/25, 10:44 PM	1739147241	1745725493		2524																										fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more			VIDEO	Read next chapter		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=673595984708315&exdata=F9458907D5605AE902D4D6F2F8C1E2EA22916CBABF3C49DA			1.0903469850659E+14	Popular romance stories	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476240853_1266757454432002_7891827347902029450_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kdsNHiZaAe4Q7kNvgG1wpok&_nc_oc=Adj1OY6hLE6TxnvaaFDpsyo32a1Y-LE8qRcG3nU0XSs0iSOwGrHgvSxpw9xvwexLmio4lR0UAsBojNG6LgK1SnkE&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYDui249iAS2VTePb--YMbzwsr_irGRm-sawTZC4aygJdg&oe=67AF13D4	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		On her wedding day, her stepsister set her up, framing her with accusations of promiscuity, academic fraud, and attempted murder. She was personally brought to court by her fiancé and imprisoned for three years, enduring inhuman torment! ===== 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) &9&		Popular romance stories		17983	https://www.facebook.com/100083149047490/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683910	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/12/25, 9:34 PM	1739147235	1749782077		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474797605_994560929203503_8697011207253964823_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sX9BKtV-MfoQ7kNvgG54Kjv&_nc_oc=Adho-62YPhUynOSXgppjL3alIfkWd3oDdM2Nx0ZBUagesFOzvqQUs_z97ZzrjUhM_HV6ULa58SjSCgrwJ2td1WfL&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYBkOQFszZgFOB_MjG8bUR9E7KzZrHpAHAoPiCadr40GYg&oe=67AF0295	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683936	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/27/25, 4:11 AM	1739147241	1745745076		2524																										fbweb.kifflire.com	Learn more			IMAGE	Lire le chapitre suivant		https://fbweb.kifflire.com/19382410-fb_contact-frr25_7-250123-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=930975401843871&exdata=60153A31A92F36A2338F90E67C2E5B0E7DE76385F04EFBB9			1.0903469850659E+14	Popular romance stories	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476280357_2402455360090247_7448150216586543851_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A8lwgaZroNUQ7kNvgFlGx3q&_nc_oc=Adhd-yWRf4pswYMXuZGudisqkNOwv-_aMUGSxRLaEkLKGT4_tTb1dTyLOpSuBwzb3GjRD9jD9anMUV7Jlji7GGNT&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYDz6x6yaNn5eLTXbHfmLwcBuxrQpYQlkgDrKA7TQL0jVQ&oe=67AF23DE	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		En apprenant sa grossesse, elle a pleuré de bonheur, mais a vu son mari devenir intime avec son premier amour. Elle a laissé derrière elle un accord de divorce les larmes aux yeux, a caché son ventre de femme enceinte et est partie triste... ===== « Mme Wright, félicitations ! Votre bébé est en très bonne santé. » Jenessa Wright est sortie de l'hôpital, hébétée, serrant le résultat du test de grossesse contre sa poitrine. Elle portait le bébé de Ryan ! En baissant les yeux, elle a inconsciemment caressé son bas-ventre encore plat et s'est mise à sourire. Souriant jusqu'aux oreilles, Jenessa s'est empressée de prendre son téléphone pour appeler Ryan Haynes, son mari, tout excitée à l'idée de partager cette merveilleuse nouvelle. Quand on parle du loup, on voit sa queue. C'était un message de Ryan. Il disait : « Viens tout de suite à l'hôtel Imodon. » L'hôtel Imodon ? Pourquoi voulait-il qu'elle s'y rende tout d'un coup ? Jenessa était perplexe, mais n'a pas hésité longtemps. Elle a hélé un taxi et s'est directement rendue à l'hôtel. Comme Ryan voulait la voir, elle pensait qu'elle pouvait aussi bien lui annoncer la bonne nouvelle en personne. Le cœur battant d'impatience, Jenessa est arrivée à l'hôtel. Dès qu'elle est descendue de voiture, elle a remarqué que le hall d'entrée était orné de fleurs et d'un tapis rouge flambant neuf, manifestement préparé pour une célébration. Jenessa s'est arrêtée, momentanément stupéfaite, avant de se rappeler que c'était aujourd'hui leur anniversaire de mariage. Se pourrait-il que Ryan lui avait demandé de venir ici pour lui faire une surprise ? Elle souriait intérieurement en se demandant comment Ryan réagirait à l'annonce de sa grossesse. Jenessa s'est frayé un chemin à travers la foule, sa tenue sobre se fondant dans le décor festif sans être remarquée. Il ne lui a pas fallu longtemps pour repérer l'homme à la beauté éblouissante qui se détachait facilement de la foule. Ce n'était autre que son mari, Ryan Haynes, le père de leur bébé. Alors qu'un sourire se dessinait sur ses lèvres, elle a aperçu la femme qui se tenait à côté de Ryan, et son sourire s'est figé. Maisie Powell ! Depuis quand Maisie était-elle revenue en ville ? Jenessa est restée scotchée sur place, paralysée en regardant Ryan et Maisie divertir les invités comme un couple parfait. Des amis les entouraient et semblaient les féliciter. « Maisie, tu es enfin de retour à la maison. Ça mérite un toast ! » « Ryan, après toutes ces années, Maisie et toi êtes enfin réunis. Cela ne mérite-t-il pas un verre de célébration ? » Peu à peu, les taquineries s'intensifiaient. Maisie, vêtue d'une robe rouge sexy et d'un maquillage exquis, a gloussé gracieusement : « Arrêtez de nous taquiner, les gars. Ryan est déjà marié et a une femme. » À la mention de Jenessa, la femme de Ryan, les gens autour ont manifesté du mépris. « Jenessa ? Je t'en prie ! Ryan ne l'a épousée que pour apaiser sa mamie ! » « Exactement ! Ryan a toujours voulu t'épouser. N'est-ce pas, Ryan ? » Ryan, qui ressemblait à un prince dans son costume sur mesure, dégageait un charisme cool et unique. « Ça suffit, arrête de taquiner Maisie », a-t-il froidement dit. Dès qu'il a dit cela, les rires et les taquineries de ses amis se sont intensifiés. « Hé, Ryan, c'est quoi ce bordel ? Tu es tellement protecteur avec elle, n'est-ce pas ? D'accord ! » Au milieu de ces taquineries endiablées, Ryan gardait son sang-froid, mais un sourire indéniable se dessinait à la commissure de ses lèvres. À côté de lui, Maisie a baissé la tête et rougi timidement. Cette scène d'amour était tellement flagrante qu'elle a transpercé le cœur de Jenessa. Elle ne savait pas quand ni comment, mais elle se retrouvait hors de l'hôtel, et ne s'en est rendu compte que lorsque des gouttes de pluie froides ont frappé son visage. Le vent glacial et la pluie battante l'ont enveloppée, et en un rien de temps, un violent orage a éclaté, la trempant jusqu'aux os. Pourtant, elle n'a pas bougé d'un pouce et s'est contentée de fixer la pluie d'un regard vide. Pourquoi Ryan l'avait-il appelée ? Était-ce juste un stratagème pour qu'elle soit témoin de leur affection et qu'elle cède gracieusement sa place de femme à sa Maisie bien-aimée ? La respiration de Jenessa est devenue saccadée. Regardant autour d'elle d'un air hébété, elle pensait qu'il n'y avait rien d'autre à faire que de quitter cet endroit misérable. D'un pas raide et délibéré, elle est rentrée à la maison sous la pluie. Debout sur le seuil de la porte, elle contemplait la maison familière, les pensées à la dérive. Il y a deux ans, alors que sa famille était au bord de la faillite, ils avaient tenté de sauver leur situation en la mariant à la famille Haynes. Au départ, Ryan n'avait pas été d'accord, mais comme sa mamie gravement malade n'avait pas cessé de faire pression sur lui, il avait accepté à contrecœur ce mariage arrangé. Maintenant que la santé de sa mamie s'était améliorée et que Maisie était revenue de l'étranger, Jenessa pensait qu'il était peut-être temps pour elle de faire ses valises et de quitter Ryan. Jenessa ne savait pas combien de temps elle était restée devant la maison avant que le bruit d'un moteur de voiture ne lui parvienne. Puis, la voix grave de Ryan s'est fait entendre à côté d'elle. « Jenessa, pourquoi restes-tu là, sous la pluie ? » Chapitre 2 Je veux divorcer Hébétée, Jenessa a levé les yeux et a croisé le regard sévère de l'homme qui se tenait devant elle. Avait-elle des visions ? Qu'est-ce que Ryan faisait ici ? Maisie venait de rentrer de l'étranger. Ne devrait-il pas passer du temps avec la femme qu'il aimait ? Ryan ne pouvait s'empêcher de froncer les sourcils en ne recevant pas de réponse de Jenessa. Cette dernière était trempée comme une soupe. Avec ses longs cheveux noirs plaqués sur ses joues pâles, l'eau dégoulinant régulièrement des pointes, elle avait l'air si impuissante et pitoyable, ressemblant à un chaton noyé. « Que diable t'est-il arrivé ? », a demandé Ryan, le ton un peu plus dur que prévu. Jenessa s'est souvenue de la douceur et de l'affection qu'il avait manifestées tout à l'heure à l'égard de Maisie à l'hôtel, ce qui lui a fait mal au cœur. Il était douloureusement clair que le comportement de Ryan à l'égard de la femme qu'il aimait et de celle qu'il n'aimait pas était diamétralement opposé. S'efforçant d'avaler le goût amer dans sa bouche, Jenessa a forcé un sourire et a expliqué en douceur : « Il a commencé à pleuvoir quand je rentrais à la maison, et je n'avais pas de parapluie, alors j'ai été trempée... » Pendant qu'elle parlait, son nez l'a soudainement démangée de façon insupportable et elle n'a pas pu s'empêcher d'éternuer bruyamment. Mais au lieu d'avoir de la peine pour elle, Ryan a froncé les sourcils encore plus profondément. « Tu n'es plus une enfant. Si tu te fais surprendre par la pluie, la première chose à faire en rentrant à la maison est de te sécher et de changer de vêtements. Ai-je vraiment besoin de t'expliquer les choses ? » Le sourire de Jenessa s'est raidi. « Je... je suis désolée... » « Va vite te changer, sinon tu vas attraper un rhume. » Ryan avait l'air trop impatient avec elle pour dire quoi que ce soit de plus, alors il l'a dépassée et est entré dans la maison. Attraper un rhume ? Ce n'est qu'à ce moment-là que Jenessa s'est souvenue qu'elle était enceinte ; elle ne pouvait pas se permettre d'être malade, sous peine de mettre le bébé en danger. C'est dans cet état d'esprit qu'elle s'est précipitée dans sa chambre, a pris une douche chaude et a laissé l'eau tiède chasser le froid. Enveloppée dans une serviette de bain, elle est sortie de la salle de bain remplie de vapeur et a trouvé Ryan se tenant sur son chemin. Sans attendre de réponse, Ryan lui a tendu avec désinvolture un médicament contre le rhume et un verre d'eau. « Tiens, prends ça. » Jenessa a regardé avec hésitation la pilule qu'il tenait, craignant qu'elle ne soit pas bonne pour le bébé. « Eh bien, je pense que je me débrouillerai très bien sans ça. Après tout, je ne suis restée sous la pluie qu'un moment. » « Ryan, je... », a-t-elle dégluti, luttant pour faire sortir les mots. « Je veux divorcer. » L'agacement s'affichant sur son visage, son regard profond se plantant dans le sien. « Qu'est-ce que tu as dit ? Répète ça. » Le cœur de Jenessa a sauté un battement. Pourtant, elle est parvenue à réprimer les émotions turbulentes qui l'habitaient et a bravement affronté le regard intense de Ryan. « J'ai dit que je voulais divorcer. » Une lueur d'émotion indéchiffrable a traversé les yeux de Ryan. « Pourquoi ? » Jenessa a été surprise par sa question, la confusion et la perplexité se lisant sur son visage. Pourquoi ? Pour réaliser son souhait d'épouser sa bien-aimée Maisie, bien sûr. « Parce que... » Sa voix s'est faiblement interrompue, incapable d'énoncer l'évidence. « Ta famille est-elle à nouveau en difficulté financière ? Est-ce une question d'argent ? » Ryan l'a regardée d'un air glacial. « Jenessa, ne connais-tu pas ta place ? Si tu as besoin de quelque chose, dis-le. Ne joue pas à ces petits jeux avec moi, parce que je n'ai pas la patience pour ces conneries. » Jenessa a serré les poings et grincé des dents en silence. Ryan supposait donc que sa demande de divorce n'était qu'un de ses jeux, une tentative de tirer parti de la situation à son avantage ? Jenessa a souri avec amertume, mais ses yeux affichaient une détermination féroce qui ne lui était pas coutumière. « Ne t'inquiète pas, je ne veux rien d'autre que divorcer. Ryan, nous allons divorcer tôt ou tard, alors quelle différence cela fait-il ? » Ryan n'a pas immédiatement répondu. Il s'est contenté de la fixer d'un regard étrange et sérieux. Son silence a plongé Jenessa dans une transe, un mélange d'anxiété et d'inexplicable lueur d'espoir s'installant dans son cœur. « Ou... ne veux-tu pas divorcer ? » Chapitre 3 Attention, le monde ! L'idée que Ryan puisse vouloir rester marié a fait bondir le cœur de Jenessa, sa poitrine se soulevant d'impatience. Cependant, sous son regard rempli d'espoir, Ryan s'est froidement moqué. « Jenessa, ne te fais pas d'illusions. » Son ton était empreint de moquerie, chaque mot transperçant le cœur de Jenessa comme un couteau. « Crois-tu vraiment que je dirais "non" ? » Il l'a regardée dans les yeux, d'un air glacial. « N'oublie pas, Jenessa, que c'est toi qui as demandé le divorce. Tu ferais mieux de ne pas revenir vers moi en rampant lorsque tout sera dit et fait. » Sur ce, il a et parti en. Jenessa découragée, et le cœur lourd de déception. Les larmes coulant sur ses joues, elle a délicatement posé une main sur son bas-ventre, sentant la petite vie grandir en elle. Au départ, elle avait l'intention d'annoncer la bonne nouvelle à Ryan, mais en l'espace de quelques heures seulement, ils étaient sur le point de divorcer. Après avoir réfléchi un moment, elle a décidé qu'il valait mieux qu'il ne sache rien de sa grossesse. Même s'ils se séparaient, elle pourrait élever le bébé toute seule. Puis, en repensant à son travail en qualité de secrétaire de Ryan, elle a ressenti une certaine impuissance. La mamie de Ryan s'était arrangée pour qu'elle travaille sous les ordres de ce dernier afin d'entretenir leur relation, et à l'époque, cela lui avait semblé une bonne idée. Mais à présent, les choses étaient différentes, et il était grand temps qu'elle quitte ce travail. Le lendemain matin, dès que Jenessa est arrivée au siège du groupe WorldLink, quelques-uns de ses collègues les plus bavards l'ont encerclée. « Jenessa, nous t'avons attendue toute la matinée ! Qu'est-ce qui se passe entre M. Haynes et cette femme, Maisie ? Sont-ils ensemble maintenant ? » « La nouvelle selon laquelle M. Haynes a organisé une fête de bienvenue pour la top-modèle internationale Maisie Powell a fait le tour du monde durant la nuit. Il a même convié tous ses amis. On dirait qu'il compte rendre leur relation publique d'ici peu ! » « C'est peut-être sa future épouse ! » Jenessa a ressenti une pointe d'amertume en écoutant. Après une petite hésitation, elle a répondu avec découragement : « Je ne sais pas grand-chose à ce sujet. » Ses collègues ont échangé des regards et roulé des yeux. Manifestement, ils ne la croyaient pas. « Allez, Jenessa ! Tu es la secrétaire de M. Haynes. Tu le connais mieux que quiconque. Comment pourrais-tu ne pas avoir d'informations privilégiées ? Crache simplement le morceau ! » Jenessa s'est forcée à sourire faiblement. Tout le monde savait qu'elle était la secrétaire de Ryan, mais très peu de gens savaient qu'elle était aussi sa femme. Il était même réticent à rendre leur relation publique. Avec un léger soupir, elle s'est montrée plus ferme. « Je ne sais vraiment pas, d'accord ? Ça suffit avec les ragots. » Ses collègues voulaient insister davantage, mais Jenessa leur a coupé l'herbe sous le pied avant qu'ils ne puissent prononcer un mot de plus. « J'ai dit qu'il n'y avait rien à dire, alors arrêtez de me harceler. Avez-vous tous été embauchés pour faire des commérages ? Remettez-vous au travail ! » Son expression sévère les mettait mal à l'aise, mais elle avait raison : ils devaient s'exécuter. « D'accord, d'accord, on a compris. » Tandis que Jenessa s'éloignait, ils ne pouvaient s'empêcher de marmonner et de grommeler entre eux. « Pour qui se prend-elle ? Jouant les hautaines et les puissantes. Humm ! Elle n'est pas la seule secrétaire ici. » « Oui, quand elle a commencé à travailler ici sans crier gare il y a trois ans, nous avons tous pensé qu'elle avait une sorte de relation avec M. Haynes. Mais en fin de compte, il ne lui a pas accordé d'attention particulière et ne l'a jamais emmenée à des réunions avec des clients. C'est sa secrétaire personnelle, mais qu'en est-il ? Un simple plaisir pour les yeux ! » « Ses jours ici sont comptés. Une fois que Maisie aura épousé M. Haynes, Jenessa sera la première à partir. Après tout, qui ferait confiance à une jolie secrétaire autour de son homme ? » « Exactement ! » Leurs rires et leurs bavardages débridés emplissaient le bureau, mais Jenessa a fait la sourde oreille et s'est directement rendue à son bureau, se plongeant dans son travail. Elle savait comment ces collègues apparemment amicaux la voyaient réellement. Mais elle ne pouvait pas les contredire, car elle-même avait l'impression d'être un objet de plaisanterie. Avant qu'elle ne s'en rende compte, il était temps de quitter le travail et la plupart des secrétaires étaient déjà rentrées chez elles. Alors que Jenessa rangeait ses affaires, elle a reçu un coup de fil de sa meilleure amie, Brinley Lloyd. « Hé, j'ai vu les nouvelles ce matin. Qu'est-ce qui se passe entre Ryan et cette femme, Maisie ? Ce ne sont que des rumeurs, n'est-ce pas ? » En entendant l'incrédulité dans la voix de Brinley, Jenessa a soupiré lourdement. « C'est vrai. » Brinley a haleté de choc et d'horreur. « C'est quoi ce bordel ? » Tout au long de la journée, Jenessa avait bien réfléchi, et elle était donc relativement calme en expliquant : « Tout d'abord, Ryan et moi ne nous sommes mariés que dans le cadre d'un accord. J'ai toujours su qu'il ne ressentait rien pour moi ; il m'a épousée uniquement parce que sa mamie a insisté. À présent que la femme qu'il aime est de retour, il n'y a plus de raison que je reste. Il est temps de les laisser être ensemble. » Brinley était à la fois incrédule et indignée. « Mais… Et le bébé ? N'allais-tu pas lui faire la surprise ? » « Serait-ce une merveilleuse surprise pour lui ? Ou un choc effroyable ? » Jenessa a instinctivement touché son bas-ventre plat, un sourire amer sur les lèvres. « De toute façon, ce qui compte, c'est que j'ai pris ma décision : je veux divorcer et j'élèverai ce bébé toute seule. Il n'a pas besoin de le savoir. » « Sérieusement, divorcer ? Es-tu sûre ? » Brinley semblait très inquiète. « Si tu ne veux pas qu'il sache que tu es enceinte, tu ne peux donc pas continuer à travailler chez WorldLink. Ton ventre va devenir de plus en plus gros. » « Ne t'inquiète pas. Je vais bientôt démissionner. Puis, je pourrai enfin recommencer à faire ce que j'aime vraiment. » Parler de ses rêves perdus depuis longtemps a fait naître un rare sourire sur le visage de Jenessa. « Oh, mon Dieu ! Jenessa, tu vas reprendre ton ancienne carrière ? » Brinley était aux anges. « C'est fantastique ! J'ai toujours cru en toi ! Tu es une designer de génie ! Attention, le monde entier, Sloane Todd, une légende dans le monde du design, arrive ! Tu n'aurais pas dû gaspiller tes talents en tant que secrétaire de Ryan pendant toutes ces années. Il n'en vaut pas la peine ! » « Sloane Todd... » Jenessa a été un peu étourdie à l'évocation de ce pseudonyme oublié depuis longtemps. Pour Ryan, elle s'était perdue pendant tellement longtemps. Elle avait presque oublié qui elle était réellement. « Jenessa. » Une voix magnétique et masculine a soudainement retenti derrière elle. Surprise, Jenessa s'est retournée pour découvrir un Ryan, l'air sévère qui se tenait derrière elle. Chapitre 4 Un petit locataire « Ry... Je veux dire, M. Haynes ! Que fais-tu ici ? » Jenessa était tellement surprise qu'elle cherchait les mots justes, complètement prise au dépourvu. Elle s'est empressée de mettre fin à l'appel, son regard inquiet scrutant le visage de Ryan à la recherche d'un signe de colère, se sentant inexplicablement effrayée et troublée. Quand Ryan était-il arrivé ? Qu'avait-il entendu ? « N'étions-nous pas censés aller voir mamie à l'hôpital aujourd'hui ? », a demandé Ryan, l'impatience transparaissant dans son ton. Ce n'est que là que Jenessa s'est souvenue qu'ils avaient effectivement prévu de se rendre à l'hôpital aujourd'hui. Baissant la tête pour s'excuser, elle a murmuré : « Je... Je suis désolée. » « Hmph », a grogné Ryan avec indifférence. Comme s'il ne voulait pas lui accorder un autre regard, il s'est retourné et est sorti en disant d'un ton vif : « Allons-y. » Il a fallu une seconde à Jenessa, hébétée, pour reprendre ses esprits et le rattraper rapidement. En route pour l'hôpital, l'esprit de Jenessa était en ébullition. Un mélange complexe d'émotions lui tourmentait le cœur alors qu'elle se demandait anxieusement si Ryan avait entendu sa conversation avec Brinley. Mais ensuite, elle s'est dit que si Ryan avait entendu qu'elle avait l'intention d'élever secrètement leur bébé toute seule, il ne serait pas aussi calme. Ils étaient assis côte à côte sur la banquette arrière de la voiture, dans un silence total. Naturellement, le comportement distrait de Jenessa était un peu difficile à ignorer. Ryan ne pouvait plus le supporter. Les sourcils froncés, il a légèrement tourné la tête et a demandé : « Qu'est-ce qui t'arrive ? » Sa voix grave a fait sursauter Jenessa, interrompant ses pensées. « R...rien », a-t-elle bredouillé à la hâte. « Vraiment ? », a lentement dit Ryan, son ton contenant une pointe de doute. Le cœur de Jenessa tambourinait. Alors qu'elle ouvrait la bouche pour se défendre, la voix magnétique de Ryan a de nouveau retenti, cette fois-ci beaucoup plus près de son oreille. « Si ce n'est vraiment rien, pourquoi m'évites-tu donc ? Pourquoi ne me regardes-tu pas, hein ? » Jenessa, figée sur place, n'a pas osé bouger d'un pouce. Un ricanement à peine perceptible s'est échappé de Ryan alors qu'il tendait une main pour saisir tendrement sa nuque. Du coin de l'œil, Jenessa l'a vu se pencher lentement vers elle...... ...... ==== En public, elle était la secrétaire de direction du PDG. En privé, elle était l'épouse qu'il n'avait jamais officiellement reconnue. Lorsqu'elle a appris qu'elle était enceinte, Jenessa était folle de joie. Mais cette joie a cédé la place à la peur lorsque son mari, Ryan, a ravivé la flamme avec son premier amour. Le cœur lourd, elle a choisi de le libérer et de partir, seulement pour être attrapé par Ryan... Que se passe-t-il ensuite? Le nombre de chapitres affichés est limité. Appuyez sur le bouton ci-dessous pour installer notre application et lire les chapitres suivants. (Accéder automatiquement à ce livre en ouvrant l'application) &3&		Popular romance stories		17983	https://www.facebook.com/100083149047490/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683934	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/11/25, 5:46 PM	1739147240	1749681985		2524																										fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more			IMAGE	Read next chapter		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=673595984708315&exdata=F9458907D5605AE90BD56882AC05132EC8E7AB04CAE2CE31			1.0903469850659E+14	Popular romance stories	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476228795_1332971894388142_5860883704434146119_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tGX0coEu3K4Q7kNvgHI4ycU&_nc_oc=Adgj46xJYIW1C71xTRrssNdcMBYFWvQ44KgFjQmuCfGHAQL0OAjGaSUWl32sZ_-QEZeZAsnANNzZTmwBU0sx3fCG&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYBLZKEyKCsrGAByZQZfuqL8Dd-f_7WWv4Zt6TR7XbyzSQ&oe=67AF2CD3	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		On her wedding day, her stepsister set her up, framing her with accusations of promiscuity, academic fraud, and attempted murder. She was personally brought to court by her fiancé and imprisoned for three years, enduring inhuman torment! ===== 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) &9&		Popular romance stories		17983	https://www.facebook.com/100083149047490/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683938	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/13/25, 7:09 PM	1739147242	1749859749		2524																										fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more			VIDEO	Read next chapter		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=673595984708315&exdata=F9458907D5605AE977AC2F377C286BD9387709C72C62B192			1.0903469850659E+14	Popular romance stories	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476227207_630794249345776_4531008998301625655_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYwU8D_5SfEQ7kNvgHfeiUz&_nc_oc=AdjCPPLXfvZy7hwA8S9osnmQaoTftXI0PqRw2OF8Uurm6Iys2SQMtTVhVDCK2J1fanD2b6mbrwukCAdibSXuXCDX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYASyrPKR6TBiXrs2Bzgf9_trmtFN8zXKRHn2QCGIG9m7A&oe=67AF30B4	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		On her wedding day, her stepsister set her up, framing her with accusations of promiscuity, academic fraud, and attempted murder. She was personally brought to court by her fiancé and imprisoned for three years, enduring inhuman torment! ===== 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) &9&		Popular romance stories		17983	https://www.facebook.com/100083149047490/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683897	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/27/25, 11:46 AM	1739147233	1745772378		2524																										heplk.com	Learn more			IMAGE	ここをクリックして無料でお読みください！		https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&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}}			3.1105348876231E+14	女の子が読みたい小説を大特集	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476227921_554266784315870_4964438610398633315_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RCCMcEwSy6oQ7kNvgEuYpT7&_nc_oc=AdhiJCVVbcc-MzR2n5zzi6Uydru0JaLZuSZkh2wVxU5bQ4W53LvHS9476e35UsDQDjGGgefX9FReOfwQdUNeuz0i&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYDynVRzCRUz1tU4t2F2L5RWL6f9GFlVyxi_CYe1JsL5cQ&oe=67AEFCF7	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		高橋優子が末期癌と診断されたその日、夫の佐藤峻介は、初恋の相手の子供の世話をしていた。 ... 病院で、中村悠斗が渋い顔で言った。「優子さん、手術が成功すれば、生存率は15%から30%になる。」 優子はかばんのひもを細い指でぎゅっと握りしめ、青ざめた小さな顔に深い陰りを浮かべていた。 「先輩、もし手術を受けなければ、どのくらい生きられるの？」 「半年から1年ぐらい。」 優子は唇をぎゅっと噛みしめ、やっと言葉を吐き出した。「先輩、このことは秘密にしてちょうだい。家族を心配させたくないの。」 高橋家はすでに破産しており、優子は父親の医療費を工面するだけでも精一杯だった。 悠斗は諦めたように言った。「口外しないよ。でも、結婚していると聞いた。旦那さん――」 「お父さんのことはお願いね。もう行かないと。」優子は夫の話題を避けるように、早々にその場を立ち去った。 父親の治療が始まってからの2年間、夫である佐藤峻介は一度も姿を見せたことがなかった。彼女が倒れて通行人に病院へ運ばれた時でさえもだ。 かつては彼も優子を大切にしていた。だが、初恋の相手である松本里美が妊娠した状態で帰国してから、すべてが変わった。 優子もかつて妊娠していたことがあった。ある日、湖で松本里美とともに落水した時、必死にもがきながら、彼が里美に向かって泳いでいく姿を見た。 後、里美は無事に子どもを産んだ。でも優子は母親になる機会を奪われた。 7日後、峻介は離婚を求めたが、彼女は拒否した。 だが、病気のことを知った今、彼女は震える手で彼の電話をかけた。 3回目のコールでつながると、彼の冷たい声が聞こえてきた。「離婚以外の用件なら、お前に会う気はない。」 優子は涙をこらえ、癌の話を切り出すことができなかった。すると電話の向こうから里美の声が聞こえてきた。「峻介君、そろそろ赤ちゃんの定期検査よ。」 その瞬間、こらえていた涙が一気に溢れ出した。すべてを終わらせる時が来たのだ。 優子はこ震える声で、絞り出すようにぽつりと呟いた。「峻介……もう、離婚しよう。」 峻介は一瞬、驚いたようだったが、冷笑して言った。「優子、今度はどんな手を使うつもりだ？」 「家で待ってるから。」 峻介は、電話が突然切られた後、呆然とスマホを見つめていた。 一年間拒否し続けてきた優子が、なぜ今急に同意したのだろう？ 彼女に会いに行くことを決めた。 「峻介、どこに行くのよ？」里美が子どもを抱えながら追いかけてきた。 しかし、彼は何も言わず立ち去った。その瞬間、里美の優しい表情はみるみるうちに恐ろしいほど暗くなった。 あの女……また何か仕掛けてきたわね！ 玄関のドアが開いたとき、優子はテーブルのそばに立っているスーツを着た背が高い男性を見た。整った顔立ちは氷のように冷たく、その暗い瞳には優子への軽蔑が浮かんでいた。 「どこに行ってたんだ？」峻介が冷たく尋ねた。 「そんなことはいつから気にするの？」 「離婚届にサインしてもらう必要がある。」 その言葉は鋭い針のように彼女の心を刺した。濡れた体を引きずりながら、彼女はカバンから書類を静かに取り出した。 「心配する必要がない。もうサイン済みだ。」 彼女が書類をテーブルの上に置いたとき、峻介は「離婚」という二文字がこれほどまでに不愉快に思えたことはなかった。優子が唯一要求したのは、2億円の慰謝料だった。 「どうして急に同意したのかと思ったら、結局金のためか。」彼の顔が嘲笑を浮かべた。 かつてなら、自分を弁護するかもしれない。でも、今彼女はただ静かに言った。「本来なら、佐藤さんの資産の半分を請求する権利があるわ。でも、私は2億円しか要求しなかった。これでも、まだ情けをかけてるつもりよ。」 峻介は一歩前に進み、長い影が優子を覆った。彼は彼女の顎を細長い指で掴み、冷たい声で言った。「今、何て呼んだ？」 「佐藤さん、もしこの呼び方が嫌なら、元夫と呼び直してもいいわよ。さあ、書類にサインして帰ってもらっていい？」 彼は不愉快そうな顔をした。「ここは俺の家だ。出て行けと言う権利はお前にはあるかい。」 優子は皮肉げに微笑み、言った。「確かに、その権利はないわ。でも、安心して、佐藤さん。離婚証明書を受け取ったら、すぐに出て行く。」 また、彼の手を振り払い、冷たい目で彼を見つめた。「明日の朝9時、市役所で書類を持ってきてください。」 翌朝、日の出前には優子は出発しようとした時、病院から電話がかかってきた。「高橋さん、お父さんが心臓発作を起こしました。」 「えっ？すぐ向かいます！」 病院に到着すると、手術はまだ続いていた。 今、唯一の希望は父が健康で生き続けることだけだった。 看護師が手術費用の請求書を手渡してきた。総額は300万円以上。 でも、以前支払った入院費で残金はたったの10万円。どうしても足りなかった。 仕方なく、峻介に電話をかけた。 冷たい声が聞こえる。「どこだ？もう30分待っている。」 「急なことがあって――」 「優子、これでおもしろい？」峻介が鼻で笑う。「どうせまた嘘をついているんだろう？」 そんな！ 「嘘じゃない！父が心臓発作を起こして手術が必要なの！――」 「それで、死んだのか？」峻介が遮った。 その言葉に、優子は耳を疑った。そんな言い方する人がいるのか？ 「いいえ！峻介、手術費が300万円以上かかるの。だから慰謝料を先に振り込んでくれない？必ず離婚するから！」 「優子、俺が誰よりも君の父親の死を望んでいることを理解しているよな。金を渡すのはいいだろう、でも手続きが終わった後にだ。」 それだけ言うと、電話は切られた。 優子の顔には困惑が浮かんでいた。かつて彼は父に対して敬意を払っていたはずだった。しかし、今の彼の声には本気の憎しみが滲んでいた。 なぜだ？ 2年前の高橋家の破産と結びつけて考えると、偶然の出来事とは思えなくなってきた。 もうしかして、峻介が裏で何かを仕掛けたのだ。しかし、実家は一体どうやって彼を怒らせてしまったのだろう？ 今、考え込む余裕もなく、父の治療費を何とかするのが最優先だった。 手術室の扉が開いた。「先生？」 「髙橋さん、お父様はなんとか持ちこたえました。」 優子はようやく胸を撫で下ろした。 介護人に父を任せ、市役所に急いだが、峻介はどこにもなかった。 焦て電話をかける。「市役所に着いたわ。どこにいるの？」 「事務室だ。」 「今すぐ離婚手続きを済ませに来てくれない？」 峻介は薄く笑って言った。「数億円の契約とお前、どっちが大事だと思う？」 「終わるまで待つから……峻介、お願い、今父はお金が必要なの。」 「もし死んだら、葬式代を出してやるよ。」それだけ言うと、彼は電話を切った。 再び電話をかけたが、すでに電源が切られた。 優子は息が詰まるような感覚に襲われた。 彼女はあっという間に全てを失ってしまった。 今、優子が持っている唯一の価値あるものは、結婚指輪だけだった。 彼女は指輪を外し、高級宝飾店に足を踏み入れた。 「お客様、購入時の領収書と証明書はお持ちですか？」 「はい。」優子は急いで書類を差し出した。 「ありがとうございます。指輪は検査に出す必要があるので、明日またご連絡させていただけますか。」 優子は切迫した声で言った。「急いでいるんです。今日中にお願いします。」 「はい。」店員が指輪を持ち去ろうとしたその時、ある白くて繊細な手が指輪ケースを押さえた。 「この指輪、とても素敵ね。私が買うわ。」 顔を上げた優子の目に飛び込んできたのは、彼女がこの世で最も憎んでいる人物――松本里美だった		女の子が読みたい小説を大特集		141	https://www.facebook.com/61559954921868/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683887	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/27/25, 11:48 AM	1739147230	1745772511		2524																										operkn.com	Learn more			IMAGE	이곳을 클릭하고 무료로 읽어보세요!		https://operkn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11942&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}}			3.2362714083366E+14	남성 소설 모음	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476359457_1068657881974299_3048820725284479605_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VwuCRTy5DNwQ7kNvgEcI7SC&_nc_oc=Adj-oQ82ygUDqEaF7rV8Nd_ThqW84fiTqKQ0rUuMKtrGW8XFTW1xYxr9ZzJrL-UI1ty-qvszP4X4OLyW8cgETPqH&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYCDRME9wdmivX07nJ3-mibVxpLopEQe9UeziGWzxmyZ2w&oe=67AF286E	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		때는 밤 11시. 형님 집 아래에 있는 공원에서 야간 러닝을 하던 중, 풀숲 속에서 들려오는 남녀의 바스락 소리가 들려왔다. “진동성, 설마 안 되는 거야? 집에서는 느낌 안 산다고 해서 여기까지 왔더니, 왜 아직도 안 돼?” ‘저거 우리 형수님 목소리 아니야?’ 나는 그 소리를 듣자마자 여자가 내 형수님 고태연이라는 걸 알아버렸다. ‘형과 형수는 밥 먹으러 간다고 했는데? 왜 공원 풀숲에 있는 거지?’ 여자 친구는 한 번도 안 사귀어 봤지만 동영상은 그래도 많이 봤다고 자부하기에, 나는 곧바로 두 사람이 무슨 짓을 하는지 알아버렸다. ‘형과 형수님이 이런 스릴을 좋아할 줄은 몰랐네. 그것도 공원에서.’ 순간 몰래 엿듣고 싶다는 생각을 참을 수 없었다. 형수는 얼굴도 예쁘장한데 몸매는 더 끝내준다. 그런 형수의 신음소리라니 이건 꿈에 그리던 일이었다. 살금살금 수풀 쪽으로 걸어가 몰래 머리를 내밀었더니 형수님이 형 위에 앉아 있었다. 물론 나를 등지고 있었지만 등 라인을 감탄할 수밖에 없었다. 순간 입이 바싹 마르고 아랫배에 열기가 올라왔다. 하지만 이렇게 매력적인 형수님 앞에서 형은 영 맥을 못 췄다. “태연아, 나 여전히 안 되는데.” 그 말에 형수가 버럭 화를 냈다. “약도 없네, 정말. 이제 고작 서른다섯이면서 왜 이렇게 쓸모가 없어? 안 서면 싸기라도 해야 할 거 아니야. 아무것도 없으면 애는 어떻게 가져? 계속 이러면 나 다른 사람 만난다? 당신은 애 싫을지 몰라도 나는 엄마가 되고 싶다고.” 잔뜩 화가 난 형수가 바지를 입고는 수풀 밖으로 걸어 나오자 놀란 나는 헐레벌떡 도망쳤다. 집에 돌아온 지 얼마 지나지 않아 형수가 돌아오는 소리가 들렸다. ‘쾅’ 닫히는 문소리에 내 가슴도 ‘철렁’ 내려앉았다. ‘깜짝 놀랐네. 형과 형수님 사이가 이렇게 안 좋을 줄이야.’ 나는 속으로 중얼거리며 가슴을 쓸어내렸다. 여자는 나이가 들수록 욕구가 많아진다더니 형수님도 욕구 불만인 게 틀림없었다. ‘하긴, 형처럼 비실비실한 몸으로 형수님을 어떻게 만족시키겠어? 나 정도는 돼야지.’ ‘퉤퉤퉤! 내가 지금 무슨 생각을 하는 거야? 고태연은 내 형수님이라고 어떻게 이런 생각을 할 수 있어?’ 물론 내가 진동성과 친형제는 아니지만 친형제 못지않게 끈끈한 사이다. 형이 아니었으면 내가 대학도 갈 수 없었을 거고. 내가 이런저런 생각에 잠겨 있을 때, 옆방에서 낮은 신음소리가 들려왔다. 얼른 귀를 벽에 대고 엿들어 봤더니 이건 틀림없이 신음이었다. ‘형수가 지금...’ 생각할수록 몸이 달아올라 도저히 참을 수 없어 나도 결국 바지 버클을 내렸다. 잠시 뒤, 벽 하나를 사이 두고 나와 형수의 신음 소리가 한데 섞였다. 영혼이 이어진 듯한 느낌에 나도 모르게 온갖 생각이 들었다. 형수가 나와 만났다면 얼마나 좋을까 하는 생각이 들어났다. 하지만 이건 절대 불가능한 일이다. 형수와 나 사이에는 영원히 넘을 수 없는 형이라는 존재가 있으니. 형한테 미안한 일은 할 수 없다. 더러워진 속옷을 대충 화장실에 두고 나는 내일 씻자는 생각으로 잠이 들었다. 이튿날, 잠에서 깨었을 때 시간은 벌써 9시가 넘었다. 형은 이미 출근했고 집에는 나와 형수 둘뿐이었다. 아침을 하는 형수는 실크로 된 나시 슬립을 입은 채로 굴곡진 몸매를 드러냈다. 특히 풍만한 가슴을 본 순간 입이 바싹 말랐다. “수호 씨, 일어났어요? 얼른 씻고 밥 먹어요.” 형수는 나를 보자마자 먼저 인사를 건넸다. 내가 이곳에 온 지는 아직 며칠 되지 않기에 형수와 아직 친해지지 못하여 많이 어색했다. 이에 나는 짤막하게 대답하고 곧장 화장실로 향했다. 그렇게 한창 씻던 그때, 갑자기 어제 벗어두었던 속옷이 내 뇌리를 스쳤다. ‘형수가 나보다 일찍 깨어났는데 설마 본 건 아니겠지?’ 이런 생각을 하며 재빨리 확인한 나는 그대로 얼어붙고 말았다. 속옷이 사라졌다. 내가 이곳저곳 찾고 있을 때 갑자기 뒤에서 형수의 목소리가 들려왔다. “찾을 필요 없어요. 이미 씻었으니까.” 순간 가슴이 철렁했다. ‘그 속옷에 내 정액이 가득 묻어 있는데, 형수가 씻었다면 봤을 거잖아!’ 이건 너무 부끄러웠다. 그런데 형수는 팔짱을 낀 채 눈웃음을 치며 아무렇지 않은 듯 나를 봤다. “수호 씨, 혹시 어제 무슨 소리 들었어요?” 나는 고개를 절레절레 흔들며 어제 형수의 소리를 들었다는 걸 극구 부인했다. “아니요, 아무것도 못 들었어요.” “그래요? 내 방에서 이상한 소리 듣지 못했어요?” ‘이건 나를 시험하는 건가?’ “저 어제 10시쯤에 잠들어서 아무것도 못 들었어요.” 이 말을 끝으로 나는 도망치듯 그 자리를 벗어났다. 왠지 모르겠지만 형수의 심문에 가슴이 콕콕 찔렸고 눈은 저도 모르게 형수의 가슴으로 향했다. 분명 마가 낀 게 틀림없다. 나는 곧장 식탁 앞에 앉아 묵묵히 음식을 먹었다. 하지만 밥이 코로 넘어가는지 입으로 넘어가는지 모르겠다. 그도 그럴 게, 형수가 이내 걸어와 하필이면 내 옆에 앉았기 때문이다. 왜 이러는지 이해가 되지 않는다. 예전에는 분명 내 맞은편에 앉았는데, 오늘은 왜 내 옆에 앉는지. 내가 이런저런 생각에 잠겨 있을 때, 형수가 갑자기 손가락으로 내 팔뚝을 쿡쿡 찔렀다. 순간 온몸이 감전되는 듯 찌릿해 났다. ‘여자가 내 몸을 만지는 게 이런 기분이구나.’ 신기한 기분이었다. “수호 씨, 혹시 내가 무서워요?” “아니요. 그냥 조금 어색해서요.” “사람은 원래 어색하다가 점점 익숙해지는 거 아니겠어요? 어색하니까 더 많이 교류해야죠. 그래야 얼른 친해지죠. 수호 씨, 남자와 여자가 가장 빨리 친해지는 방법이 뭔지 알아요?” 내 착각인지 모르겠으나 형수는 분명 나에게 암시하는 것 같았다. 그걸 인식하니 너무 당황해 밥이 넘어가지 않았다. 설렘 반 긴장 반인 심정으로 형수의 말에 담긴 의미를 생각하다가 끝내 용기를 내 질문했다. “뭔데요?” “아이 만드는 거요.” 형수는 맑은 두 눈으로 나를 바라보며 아주 직설적으로 말했다. 그 순간 나는 사레가 걸렸다. 형수가 왜 이런 말을 하는지 이해가 되지 않았다. 내가 형수와 뭘 할 수 있다고. ‘설마 나를 노리나?’ ‘형이 안 되니까 나한테 희망을 품은 건가?’ ‘안돼, 난 절대 형한테 미안한 일 할 수 없어.’ 나는 다급히 의자를 들고 옆으로 물러났다. “형수, 농담하지 마세요. 누가 보면 오해해요.” 형수는 나를 보며 피식 웃더니 곧장 질문했다. “그럼 솔직히 말해봐요. 어제 무슨 소리 들었어요? 솔직히 말하지 않으면 깊은 대화를 해봐야 할 것 같은데요.” ‘헉, 절대 그럴 수 없어.’ 나는 놀란 가슴을 다독이며 결국 입을 열었다. “형수님, 저 확실히 무슨 소리 들었어요. 하지만 고의는 아니었어요.” “혹시 내 신음 소리였어요? 듣기 좋던가요?” 형수님이 이렇게 노골적인 질문을 할 거라고는 생각지도 못했다. 얼굴은 화끈 달아올랐고, 가슴은 요란하게 북을 쳐 어떻게 대답해야 할지 갈피를 잡지 못했다. 그러던 그때. 마침 밖에서 노크 소리가 들려오자 나는 지푸라기라도 잡는 심정으로 얼른 달려가 문 쪽으로 달려갔다. 그리고 문을 열었더니 밖에는 늘씬한 여자 한 명이 서 있었다. 얼굴은 예쁘장한 데다, 나올 데 나오고 들어갈 데 들어가 연예인 못지않았다. 여자는 나를 보자 눈을 크게 뜨며 물었다. “그쪽은 누구죠?” 그 말에 나는 어이가 없었다. “그러는 그쪽은 누군데요?” 제2화 “애교야, 왔어? 얼른 들어와.” 내가 한참 답답해하고 있을 때, 형수가 다가와 낯선 여자를 친절하게 맞이했다. 여자는 형수의 초대로 곧장 집 안에 들어섰다. 그러자 형수가 우리를 소개했다. 여자는 형수의 친한 친구인데, 이름은 이애교, 바로 옆집에 살고 있었다. “애교야, 이 사람은 동성 씨와 같은 마을에 살던 동생이야, 정수호라고, 어제 왔어.” 애교라는 여자는 이상한 눈으로 나를 보더니 이내 빙그레 웃었다. “동성 씨한테 이렇게 어리고 잘생긴 동생이 다 있었어?” “수호 씨 이제 막 대학 졸업했어. 그러니 당연히 젊지. 젊을 뿐만 아니라 엄청 튼실해.” 내 착각일지 모르겠으나 형수의 마지막 한마디는 무척 의미심장했다. 심지어 눈길마저 내 아래를 흘끗거렸다. 그 동작에 나는 더 불편해졌다. 그때, 애교 누나가 나를 위아래로 훑더니 물었다. “태연아, 네가 말했던 마사지사가 설마 이 사람이야?” “맞아. 수호 씨가 어릴 때부터 할아버지한테 마사지를 배웠대. 솜씨가 엄청 좋아.” 형수는 말을 마치자마자 나를 봤다. “아까 미처 말하지 못했는데, 사실 내 친구가 허리와 척추가 아프다고 해서요. 가끔 가슴도 답답하대요. 원래는 한의사를 불러 마사지 좀 받게 하려고 했는데, 수호 씨가 마침 마사지할 줄 알잖아요. 그래서 한번 받아보게 하려고요.” ‘그런 거였군.’ 나는 단번에 승낙했다. ‘형과 형수가 나를 이곳에서 머물게 해주고 일자리도 알아봐 줬는데, 이런 일 정도야 당연히 도와야지.’ 그때, 애교 누나가 부끄러운지 형수를 옆으로 끌고 갔다. “이건 좀 아니지 않나? 너무 젊은데?” “젊은 게 뭐 어때서? 젊을수록 좋은 거 아니야? 젊어야 힘이 좋고, 그래야 너 같은 유부녀를 편하게 모실 수 있잖아.” “무슨 헛소리하는 거야. 나 그런 사람 아니거든.” 애교 누나는 얼굴을 붉혔다. 그러자 형수가 싱긋 웃으며 대답했다. “농담이야. 네가 그쪽으로 생각하니까 그렇지. 솔직히 말해봐, 네 남편 반년 동안 집에 안 왔는데, 그동안 하고 싶지 않았어?” “너 계속 이러면 나 간다?” 그때, 형수가 귀까지 빨개진 애교 누나의 팔짱을 끼며 말했다. “알았어. 안 놀릴게. 너는 점잖고 우아한 귀부인이야. 됐지? 그런데 우리 수호 씨 솜씨 엄청 좋아. 한번 해봐. 젊고 잘생긴 남자가 밖에 있는 늙은 영감보다야 낫지 않겠어?” 애교 누나는 형수의 말에 일리가 있다고 생각했는지 고개를 끄덕였다. “그럼 옆에 있어 줘. 안 그러면 어색할 것 같아.” “그래, 같이 있어 줄게.” 두 사람은 한참 동안 소곤거리더니 그제야 내 앞으로 다가왔다. 애교 누나가 형수더러 먼저 시범 보여달라고 하자 형수는 군말 없이 소파에 엎드렸다. “수호 씨, 시작해요.” 나는 의자를 가져와 형수님 옆에 앉아 마사지를 하기 시작했다. 콜라병 몸매를 소유한 형수의 엉덩이는 동그랗고 볼록해 나는 저도 모르게 때리고 싶다는 생각이 들었다. “태연, 어때? 시원해?” 애교 누나가 물었다. “당연하지, 이렇게 시원하기는 오랜만이야.” 형수의 낮은 신음소리에 나와 애교 누나는 얼굴이 화끈 달아올랐다. 심지어 아래가 터질 것 같아 괴로워하고 있을 때, 애교 누나도 부자연스럽게 다리를 꽉 모았다. “됐어, 애교야. 이제 네 차례야.” 형수는 소파에서 일어나 우리에게 물을 따라주자, 애교 누나는 부끄러워하면서 소파에 눕더니 다리에 담요를 덮었다. ‘쯧, 예쁜 다리를 가리다니, 아쉽네.’ 하지만 아무리 덮는다고 해도 완벽한 몸매를 가릴 수는 없었다. 애교 누나는 마른 체형이지만 나올 데 나오고 들어갈 데 들어간 데다 얼굴까지 동안이라 눈길을 더 끌었다. 그때 내가 손을 어깨에 대자 애교 누나의 몸이 뻣뻣하게 굳었다. ‘형수님은 형수님이라 뭘 할 수 없다지만, 형수님 친구는 괜찮잖아? 게다가 남편이 오랫동안 집을 비웠다고 했으니 엄청 외로울 거야.’ “애교 누나, 시원해요?” “응.” 내 물음에 애교 누나는 부끄러운 듯 낮게 대답했다. 그 대답을 들으니 나는 더욱 대담해졌다. “더 시원하게 해줄게요.” 나는 애교 누나의 등을 타고 두 손을 점점 아래로 움직였다. 그러자 애교 누나가 몸을 부르르 떨었다. “지금 뭐 하는 거예요?” “허리 시큰거린다면서요? 허리 좀 주물러 주려고요.” 살짝 겁을 먹은 채 말했더니 애교 누나는 아무 말도 하지 않았다. 묵인을 얻자 내 손은 다시 애교 누나의 허리 위로 올라가 꾹꾹 누르기 시작했다. 애교 누나의 허리는 매우 가늘어 한 손에 잡힐 정도였다. 하지만 엉덩이는 그에 비해 크고 통통한 애플힙이었다. “사실 누나의 어깨는 크게 문제없어요. 하지만 허리에 문제가 많아요.” “네? 허리가 왜요?” 나는 불안한 듯 묻는 애교 누나의 허리를 누르며 말했다. “신장이 약해요. 신장이 약하면 이렇게 허리가 아프거든요.” “신장은 보통 남자한테 중요한 거잖아요. 나는 여자라서 크게 상관없는 거 아니에요?” “그건 오해예요. 남자든 여자든 신장이 두 개인 건 똑같잖아요. 보통 신장하면 남성 기능 쪽으로 생각하는데, 여자도 기혈이 부족하면 신장이 약할 수 있어요. 누나가 얼굴색이 창백한 것도 기혈이 부족해서 그래요. 이걸 장기적으로 방치하면 다른 문제가 생기거든요.” “그럼 어떡해요?” 애교 누나가 무의식적으로 묻자 나는 씩 입꼬리를 올렸다. “사실 지금은 그렇게 심각한 게 아니라 한동안 이렇게 마사지 받으면 나을 수 있어요.” “그럼 얼른 마사지해 줘요.” “그럼 시작해요.” 나는 애교 누나의 허리를 따라 아래로 손을 내렸다. 그 순간 애교 누나의 몸이 뻣뻣하게 굳었다. 하지만 아무 말도 하지 않자 나는 더 대담하게 행동했다. 내 손은 애교 누나의 엉덩이를 스치며 다리를 덮고 있던 담요를 천천히 걷어냈다. 백옥처럼 새하얀 다리는 역시나 예술이었다. 나는 손을 점점 아래로 내려 애교 누나의 발을 쥐고 발바닥 혈 자리를 꾹꾹 눌렀다. 그러자 애교 누나는 참지 못하고 신음을 내더니 부끄러웠는지 얼굴이 새빨개졌다. “괜찮아요?” 애교 누나는 가쁜 호흡을 가다듬으며 대답했다. “괜찮아요, 계속해요.” 그 말에 나는 계속해서 애교 누나의 발바닥을 눌렀다. 그러다 참지 못하고 애교 누나의 치마 속을 훔쳐봤는데 아쉽게도 다리를 너무 꽉 모으고 있는 탓에 아무것도 볼 수 없었다. 그렇게 한참 동안 누르다가 나는 만족스럽지 않아 대담하게 요구했다. “애교 누나, 혹시 평소에 가슴이 답답하지 않아요? 내가 마사지해 줄게요.” 나는 말하면서 무의식적으로 애교 누나의 가슴을 슬쩍 스쳐봤다. ‘저기를 누를 수 있다면 얼마나 좋을까?’ 거절당할까 봐 걱정했던 것도 무색하게, 애교 누나는 바로 동의했다. “뭐, 그래요.” 순간 너무 흥분한 나머지 나는 의자를 소파 쪽으로 더 바싹 붙이며 말했다. “누나, 반듯하게 누워요. 그래야 마사지할 수 있으니까?” 애교 누나는 고분고분 뒤돌아 소파 위에 반듯하게 누웠다. 애교 누나의 가슴은 형수님 것보다 작았지만 봉긋하게 솟았다. 한 번도 여자 가슴을 만져 본 적 없어 잔뜩 긴장한 채로 손을 뻗으려는 그때, 갑자기 형수의 목소리가 들려왔다. “어머, 두 사람 진도 빠르네.” 제3화 나는 마치 나쁜 짓을 한 어린애처럼 벌떡 일어났다. “형수님, 형수님이 여긴 어쩐 일이에요?” 애교 누나도 잘못을 저지른 것처럼 벌떡 자리에서 일어났다. 심지어 양 볼은 어느새 사과처럼 빨갛게 무르익었다. “태연아, 그런 거 아니야. 나랑 수호 씨 아무 일도 없었어. 그냥 가슴이 답답해서 마사지해 준 것뿐이야.” 애교 누나가 구구절절 설명하자 형수가 피식 웃었다. “내가 뭐라고 한 것도 아닌데, 왜 그렇게 긴장해? 아니면 나 몰래 정말 나쁜 짓이라도 했어?” 나와 애교 누나는 동시에 고개를 저었다. 그와 동시에 당혹스러웠다. ‘내가 감히 형수님 친구를 어떻게 하려 하다니, 만약 형수님이 알면 분명 쫓아낼 거야.’ 그때 애교 누나가 안절부절못하더니 일이 있다는 핑계로 서둘러 집을 나갔다. 형수는 그런 애교 누나의 뒷모습을 보며 멍해 있다가 한참 뒤에 나를 보며 물었다. “수호 씨, 내 친구 어떻게 같아요?” “네?” 형수한테서 갑자기 이런 질문을 받으니 나는 마음이 혼란스러워 말까지 더듬었다. “좋죠. 예쁘고 몸매도 좋고 성격도 좋잖아요.” “그럼 내 친구 꼬시라고 하면 그럴 의향 있어요?” 형수의 말에 나는 놀라움을 감출 수 없었다. 마음도 혼란스러워 무슨 말을 해야 할지 몰랐다. 문제는 형수가 방금 내가 형수 친구를 어떻게 해보려던 걸 발견하고 일부러 떠보는 것일까 봐 걱정되었다. 내가 긴장하고 있을 때, 형수가 내 팔을 잡으며 손등을 톡톡 두드렸다. “긴장할 거 없어요. 솔직히 말하면 돼요.” “형수님, 저 난처하게 하지 마세요. 애교 누나는 형수님 친구인데 제가 어떻게 감히 그런 마음을 품겠어요?” “감히라고요? 아래가 이렇게 단단해졌으면서.” 형수는 내 아래를 흘긋거리며 말했다. 순간 너무 쪽팔리고 난감해 나는 얼른 허리를 숙였다. “와, 사이즈 보통 아니네요.” 내 착각일지 모르겠으나 내 아래를 본 순간 형수의 눈빛이 변했다. 그때 형수가 말을 이었다. “나 농담 아니에요. 애교와 잠자리를 가져요. 형 도와주는 셈 치고.” ‘뭐지? 애교 누나와 자는 게 형과 무슨 상관이지?’ 형수는 나를 소파에 앉히더니 설명하기 시작했다. “동성 씨 회사와 애교의 남편이 현재 사업 파트너거든요. 애교 누나의 남편이 밖에 애인이 있는데 동성 씨한테 사람을 찾아 자기 아내 꼬셔달라고 부탁했대요. 그러면 빨리 이혼할 수 있으니까. 이제 알겠죠?” 나는 연신 고개를 끄덕였다. 알아들은 건 확실하나 이해가 되지 않았다. ‘애교 누나처럼 예쁜 여자를 두고 그 남편은 왜 바람피우는 거지?’ 내가 깊은 생각에 빠져 있을 때 형수가 내 허벅지를 꼬집었다. “무슨 생각을 그렇게 해요?” “아!” 너무 아파 저도 모르게 비명을 지르며 나는 연신 고개를 저었다. “아무것도 아니에요.” “내가 아침에 한 말 기억해요? 남자의 그건 정확한 곳에 써야 해요. 애교 누나의 남편이 반년 동안 애교 누나한테 손끝 하나 대지 않았대요. 그러니까 수호 씨가 조금만 손쓰면 바로 넘어올 거예요. 여자와 자본 적 없죠? 이번이 기회예요.” 형수의 말을 들을수록 나는 얼굴이 빨갛게 달아올랐고, 아랫배에 열기가 몰렸다. 문제는 너무 부끄러우면서도 난감한 부탁이라는 거다. 만약 다른 사람의 부탁이라면 그나마 괜찮았을 텐데. 형수는 내가 꿈쩍도 하지 않자 갑자기 옆으로 바싹 다가왔다. 그 순간 은은한 향기가 내 코끝을 간지럽혔다. 전에 한 번도 형수와 이렇게 가까이 앉은 적 없는데, 지금은 심지어 형수의 온도까지 느껴질 정도라 가슴이 콩닥거리는 한편 긴장했다. “혹시 무서워요? 걱정돼요?” 조심스럽게 묻는 형수의 말에 나는 필사적으로 고개를 끄덕였다. 이건 무서운 정도가 아니라 아주 겁이 나 미칠 지경이다. 여자 친구도 사귀어 본 적 없는 나더러 유부녀를 꼬시라니. 무섭지 않을 리가. 그때 형수가 다시 한번 내 손을 잡으며 한 번도 들은 적 없는 부드러운 목소리로 말했다. “걱정할 거 없어요. 상대는 외로운 유부녀라 마음껏 꼬셔도 돼요. 유부녀를 꼬시는 가장 효과적인 방법이 바로 성욕을 자극하는 거예요.” “성욕이 한번 끓어오르면 끝이 없거든요. 그때가 되면 수호 씨는 아무것도 안 해도 모든 일이 풀릴 거예요. 알았어요?” 나는 건성으로 고개를 끄덕였지만 생각은 이미 다른 데로 날아가 버렸다. 머릿속에는 아침에 들은 장면이 떠올랐고, 형수님의 가슴이 얼마나 매혹적일지 상상했다. 그런데 하필이면 형수가 그걸 보고 말았다. “나 커요?” 갑작스러운 형수의 물음에 나는 바짝 긴장했고, 입이 바싹 말라 넋을 잃은 듯 대답했다. “네.” “만지고 싶어요?” 순간 피가 거꾸로 솟는 기분이 들었고 머리가 윙윙 울려 아무 말도 할 수 없었다. 그때, 형수가 내 쪽으로 갑자기 바싹 다가와 가슴을 내 몸에 눌렀다. 그 순간, 나는 바보라도 된 것처럼 머리가 온통 백지장이 되어버렸다. “그러고 싶으면 싶은 거죠. 민망해할 거 뭐 있어요? 이건 인간의 본능적인 욕구예요. 풀 때는 풀어야 한다고요.” 결국 나는 참지 못하고 이를 악물었다. “만지고 싶어요. 그것도 아주 많아.” “하하하, 잘했어요. 마음이 시키는 대로 해 봐요. 그럼 무서울 거 없잖아요. 하지만 그 욕구는 애교 누나한테 풀어요. 형수인 내가 아니라. 알겠어요?” 순간 기분이 나락으로 떨어졌다. ‘난 또 형수님이 나한테 몸 바치려 하는 줄 알았는데 어떻게 대담해지는지 가르쳐주는 거였잖아.’ ‘하지만 오히려 좋아. 내가 만약 형수와 무슨 일이라도 생기면 형한테 미안해서 어떡해?’ 나는 더 이상 참을 수 없어 배가 아프다는 핑계를 대고 얼른 화장실로 달려갔다. 방금 애교 누나를 도와 마사지할 때부터 참기 힘들었는데, 형수가 나를 건드리기까지 하니 아래가 터질 것만 같았다. 물론 형수가 손장난도 적당히 하면 몸에 좋고 지나치면 몸이 상한다고 했지만, 이 순간 더 이상 참을 수 없었다. 하지만 뜻밖에도 목욕 타월을 올려놓는 선반 위에서 여자 팬티 한 장을 발견했다. 깊이 생각하지 않아도 알 수 있었다. 이 팬티의 주인이 형수라는 걸. 그 순간 그 팬티를 가져야 할지 말아야 할지 수없이 고민했다. 이내 눈을 감고 마음을 진정하려고 했으나, 하필이면 머릿속에 아침에 봤던 장면이 떠올랐다. 심지어 마음속에서 악마의 속삭임이 나를 유혹했다. ‘손장난하는 것뿐인데, 그건 괜찮잖아. 이건 쉽게 얻을 수 없는 기회라고, 놓치면 앞으로는 기회도 없어.’ 결국 나는 그 속삭임에 넘어가 저도 모르게 팬티를 향해 손을 뻗었다. 제4화 팬티는 부드럽고 나른한 데다 심지어 형수의 냄새까지 배어 있었다. 손에 감각이 느껴지자 저도 모르게 아침에 몰래 엿들었던 소리가 뇌리에 재생되며 점차 흥분되었다. ‘형수와 뭘 진짜로 할 수는 없지만 팬티로 상상하는 건 괜찮잖아.’ 나는 속으로 이렇게 중얼거리며 벨트를 풀고 팬티를 밀어 넣었다. 하지만 내 손이 아래에 닿으려 할 때 노크 소리가 들렸고, 너무 놀란 나머지 나는 그대로 뿜을 뻔했다. ‘집에 나와 형수님 둘뿐이니 노크한 사람은 형수님이겠지?’ 나는 서둘러 그 팬티를 꺼내 목욕 타월 선반 위에 올려다 놓고 나서 조심스럽게 말했다. “형수님, 왜 그러세요?” “수호 씨, 안에서 무슨 나쁜 짓 했어요?” ‘이런 말을 묻는다고?’ “네? 아, 아니요.” 나는 찔려서 말을 더듬었다. “그런데 왜 그렇게 떨어요?” 형수의 한마디에 나는 가슴이 철렁해 식은땀을 줄줄 흘렸다. ‘형수가 아무리 개방적이라고 해도 본인과 나는 안 된다고 명확히 말했는데, 만약 내가 형수의 팬티를 가지고 그런 짓을 한 걸 들키면 내가 본인 말을 안 듣는다고 생각해 쫓아내면 어떡하지?’ 하지만 이 상황을 어떻게 설명해야 할지 몰라 나는 애써 설명했다. “정말 아무것도 아니에요. 배가 아파서 식은땀이 난 것뿐이에요.” “갑자기 식은땀이 왜 나요? 혹시 어디 아파요?” 형수는 이내 나를 걱정했다. “저도 모르겠어요. 그냥 좀 불편해요.” “문 좀 열어봐요. 어디 봐봐요.” “이, 이제 괜찮아요.” “내외할 거 뭐 있어요? 수호 씨 내 눈에는 아직 애예요. 그러니 얼른 문 열어요.” 그 말을 들은 순간 실망감이 휘몰아쳤다. ‘내가 형수님 눈에 고작 애였다니. 어쩐지 내 앞에서 거침없더라니. 나는 그런 상대로 한 번도 생각하지 않았나 보네.’ 나는 허리를 숙여 화장실 문을 열었다. 형수는 들어오자마자 나를 보는 게 아니라 목욕 타월을 놓은 선반 위를 확인했다. 나는 마음이 찔려 형수의 눈을 마주칠 수 없었다. 그때 형수가 선반 쪽으로 걸어가더니 나한테 웃으며 물었다. “혹시 내 팬티 건드렸어요?” “아, 아니요.” 나는 다급하게 고개를 흔들었다. “정말이에요? 그런데 얼굴은 왜 그렇게 빨개요? 솔직히 말해요. 방금 내 팬티로 나쁜 짓 하려고 했는데 내가 방해한 거죠? 그래서 내가 들어오는 걸 무서워했던 거고?” ‘뭐야? 천리안이라도 지녔나? 어떻게 저렇게 귀신같이 다 알지?’ 형수는 나를 위아래로 훑더니 내가 허리를 구부린 채 일어나지 못하자 의심의 눈초리로 바라봤다. “똑바로 서요.” 형수는 나를 지그시 바라보며 말했다. 그런 형수의 명을 나는 어길 수 없었다. 하지만 내가 몸을 곧게 편 순간 난감한 상태인 것이 바로 들켜버렸다. 형수도 그걸 본 게 틀림없다. 나는 눈을 감고 형수의 눈을 피했다. 하지만 형수가 천천히 내 앞에 무릎을 꿇는 게 고스란히 느껴졌다. 그 순간 가슴이 튀어나올 것만 같았다. 문제는 형수가 뭘 하려는지 몰라 도저히 모르겠다는 거였다. 너무 야릇한 자세에 나는 저도 모르게 이런저런 상상을 하며 천천히 눈을 떴다. 그랬더니 형수가 멍하니 내 그곳을 바라보며 감탄하는 게 아니겠는가? “동성 씨가 수호 씨처럼 이랬으면 얼마나 좋을까요?” 동경이 가득한 형수의 눈빛에 내 머리는 순간 백지장이 되어버렸고, 가슴은 미친 듯이 요동쳐 무슨 말을 해야 할지 몰랐다. 그런데 형수는 그곳을 한참 바라보더니 다시 일어났다. 나는 얼른 손으로 그곳을 막았다. “아직은 욕구를 풀지 마요. 그래야 애교 누나를 공략할 동력이 생기죠.” 형수는 말하면서 갑자기 나에게 바싹 다가왔다. “사실 나 일부러 이러는 거예요. 이러면 안 되는 거 아는데 동성 씨를 위해서 어쩔 수 없어요. 수호 씨가 너무 부끄럼을 타니까 우선 생각을 오픈해야죠. 손 치워요. 나도 산전수전 겪은 사람인데, 이런 걸 못 겪어봤을까요?” ‘그래도 이 방법은 너무 남다른 거 아닌가? 목숨이 남아나질 않는다고.’ 나는 속으로 아우성쳤다. “나와요. 애교한테 전화할 거니까 같이 쇼핑하면서 두 사람 이어줄게요. 오늘 애교가 수호 씨를 집에 초대할지 기대되네요. 얼른 해결해야 수호 씨 형네 회사도 얼른 제자리 찾을 수 있을 거예요.” 형수는 말을 마치자마자 허리를 흔들며 밖으로 나가 버렸다. 홀로 남겨진 나 역시 그제야 화장실에서 느릿느릿 걸어 나왔지만, 손은 온통 땀으로 젖었다. 너무 참고 있었던 탓이었다. 형수한테 매번 이런 식으로 자극당하고 제대로 풀 수 없으니 미칠 것만 같았다. 하지만 형을 위해서 참을 수밖에 없다. 형수는 소파에 앉아 애교 누나에게 전화했다. “안 나가겠다고? 왜? 안돼, 나랑 나가자. 안 나가면 수호 씨더러 너 안아서 내려오라고 한다?” “뭐? 내가 너무하다고? 그래, 나 원래 이래. 어떡할 건데?” “그래, 그럼 약속한 거다? 5분 뒷문 앞에서 기다릴게.” 형수는 전화를 끊자 나를 향해 웃으며 말했다. “해결했어요. 가서 옷 갈아입어요. 이따가 운전해야 하니까. 기억해요, 자꾸 뒤쪽을 봐야 해요, 서프라이즈가 있을 테니까.” “네.” 나는 짤막하게 대답하고 곧바로 옷 갈아입으러 갔다. 그러면서 내심 형수가 말한 서프라이즈가 뭘까 기대했다. 내가 이내 옷을 갈아입고 형수와 함께 문 앞에서 기다렸다. 그랬더니 얼마 지나지 않아 애교 누나가 나왔다. 붉은 원피스는 애교 누나의 하얀 피부를 더 희게 만들었고, V넥이라 가슴골이 훤히 드러났다. 그걸 본 순간 나는 넋을 잃고 말았다. ‘애교 누나의 몸매가 좋을 줄은 알았지만 이 정도일 줄이야.’ 애교 누나는 일부러 내 눈을 피하며 형수의 팔짱을 끼더니 내 앞으로 지나갔다. 그런 반응에 나는 답답하고 속상했다. 아까 마사지할 때만 해도 분명 살갑게 대했는데, 왜 갑자기 이렇게 차가워졌는지. 심지어 내 눈도 안 마주치고 있다. ‘설마 내가 너무 무례해서 화났나?’ 우리는 곧장 계단을 내려갔다. 그 사이 애교 누나는 형수와 웃고 떠들었지만 나는 혼자 꿔다 놓은 보따리처럼 옆에 덩그러니 서 있었다. 그게 너무 답답하고 괴로웠지만 차에 타자마자 갑자기 뒤를 돌아보면 서프라이즈가 있을 거라던 형수의 말이 떠올랐다. 그 서프라이즈가 무엇인지 궁금하여 나는 계속 백미러로 뒤를 힐끔거렸다. 하지만 형수는 애교 누나와 웃고 떠들기만 할 뿐, 기대했던 서프라이즈는 없었다. “형수님, 우리 어디 가요?” 길을 물어본다는 걸 핑계 삼아 또 한 번 뒤돌아봤지만 여전히 서프라이즈는 없었다. 하지만 애교 누나와 눈빛이 마주친 순간, 애교 누나의 얼굴이 빨갛게 달아오르더니 이내 시선을 피했다. 그건 당황하고 초조해하는 눈빛이 틀림없었다. 그 순간 내 가슴은 철렁 내려앉았다. 애교 누나는 지금 화나 있는 게 아니라 나와 썸을 이어갈지 고민하는 거였다. 그걸 인지하자 나는 기쁨을 주체할 수 없었다. 그건 애교 누나도 나한테 마음이 있다는 뜻이었으니. “광화문 광장으로 가요.” “네.” 형수의 말에 나는 짤막하게 대답했다. 그러고는 곧장 핸드폰을 꺼내 길을 검색하고는 시동을 걸었다. 차가 정체 구간에 이르자 좀처럼 속도가 나지 않아 나는 다시 뒤를 흘끔거렸다. 그리고 그 순간 애교 누나가 팬티를 내리는 모습을 봐버렸다.		남성 소설 모음		124	https://www.facebook.com/61560317043692/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683883	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/27/25, 11:51 AM	1739147229	1745772706		2524																										norvure.com	Shop now			IMAGE	Effortless Manicures Anytime, Anywhere!	40% Off Until Midnight	https://norvure.com/products/clip-click%E2%84%A2-the-effortless-electric-nail-trimmer			1.1075792873604E+14	HappyMe's	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440943208_1131808218104590_2955018481176265273_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jYg6PT-tLxkQ7kNvgGWiEBV&_nc_oc=AdhzJlr38d6jtGJMA0rpq5iB2G-pGHH3k8GCgn6B-5p0gLUpgc8hk7UVsWWdhok5vTncf8c2MItfuaH95HHKb2-_&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWot1OYEwHq1WqQmsKfEUvg&oh=00_AYDe3cdoLdi2z5i193arCY3gGGJyp_93cwIjfScu5w3RrQ&oe=67AF3399	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		💅 Achieve salon-quality manicures with ease using Clip & Click™! No more struggling with traditional nail clippers - let the powerful motor and innovative design do the work for you. 👉 Click Shop Now And Get Yours 40% Off Until Midnight!		HappyMe's		4132	https://www.facebook.com/100094368992659/	0		SHOP_NOW								View Edit Delete
2683915	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/12/25, 10:11 AM	1739147236	1749741090		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474565360_546894848327015_4494787347781154394_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_1MrWRP5lJIQ7kNvgF62gx5&_nc_oc=Adj6SOx5AsGXohBmaH4zj7X0LtOyf-qIWYPA_JLWQ9adKnkIQlYkBYbqIXTNuqbvqC51dcT5QNzR0gmRst7K_bAT&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYCNfTuYMxWET3snZNQl-wq-KDQcay084cU-fE8en5bChQ&oe=67AF22F3	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683926	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	5/19/25, 8:20 PM	1739147238	1747704006		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474591221_1150610486705254_5535332651927239754_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GJpvVg3nseIQ7kNvgHDPb2H&_nc_oc=AdjGdYb2tQsn8r8GnGXdJ3WWV518Ss-J-hmYrkllandcJIx1kYFEtSj2nkFNHYKHM3PSynUOB5frRQgMjnIjdIhm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYBjLG1-egL8t4LwMtcZjKugMrmsuseF9LguSOC0YvWHxg&oe=67AF30F6	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683933	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/9/25, 12:43 AM	1739147240	1749447787		2524																										www.luckydealshop.com	Shop now			VIDEO	⚡️Flash Sale 60%⚡️Tummy Control Button Wide Leg Pant	⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 13.9k Sold 🛒 ⭐️ Last Day Sale 50% OFF ⭐️	https://www.luckydealshop.com/products/leg-pant			5.1134105206276E+14	Shop MiNa	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471502022_3930506243887975_8548872296562254363_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jKkF-lyygz8Q7kNvgGyKBLt&_nc_oc=AdjL3yeXR6eXNw7RsTDfzMQIsDyE0hwZNOmTNGBYYlV9s-naCbg6jUkKSjun4iOFqLQRlwf1ek-utCI57NfnbzRp&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYAs_PdtKBn6A_UjrrNplVJoXLz56lbB0MyeovSnFToMFw&oe=67AF11E2	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		Plus sizes girls loving🌞 🥰These pull-on wide-leg pants put a new spin on retro silhouettes. ✨Hidden zipper at waist ✨4-way stretch ✨pockets on the front and back 🛒SHOP NOW 👇 https://www.luckydealshop.com/products/leg-pant		Shop MiNa		1	https://www.facebook.com/61571140525919/	0		SHOP_NOW								View Edit Delete
2683927	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/9/25, 2:37 AM	1739147239	1749454673		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474495175_1377265346985656_6792878295191594034_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=v6q1nasc1DEQ7kNvgGy24W6&_nc_oc=Adj_pRrIqqgzzQqnx9F7FydoOW7Xl5bp8veLSZbvIXJz_Hw91OjWEZqJIli2eicfpbEspreTVt1zOYGPL8ozQxVZ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYDaTe8D984m3Rjulien0H2dcouqUdhUh-BugsQAretwFQ&oe=67AF1BAF	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683949	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/9/25, 2:02 PM	1739147248	1749495777		2524																										heplk.com	Learn more			VIDEO	ここをクリックして無料でお読みください！		https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&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}}			3.1105348876231E+14	女の子が読みたい小説を大特集	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474801211_1098612755336507_4639274809675715295_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Em4vgD47B1IQ7kNvgEcy7nM&_nc_oc=Adj_tMtMiD-rKa7ITVHrU1ThmEDxDBwlLiIqalR0UYW69u5qbt1WW-9eRX9OOsRSBsB8WS5ogz3QsnGqf44UXs4n&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYCXavf7D7uS9onqzTXJ5OetEeLIWoj_ZcwpiMFYEsjKYQ&oe=67AF0A54	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		高橋優子が末期癌と診断されたその日、夫の佐藤峻介は、初恋の相手の子供の世話をしていた。 ... 病院で、中村悠斗が渋い顔で言った。「優子さん、手術が成功すれば、生存率は15%から30%になる。」 優子はかばんのひもを細い指でぎゅっと握りしめ、青ざめた小さな顔に深い陰りを浮かべていた。 「先輩、もし手術を受けなければ、どのくらい生きられるの？」 「半年から1年ぐらい。」 優子は唇をぎゅっと噛みしめ、やっと言葉を吐き出した。「先輩、このことは秘密にしてちょうだい。家族を心配させたくないの。」 高橋家はすでに破産しており、優子は父親の医療費を工面するだけでも精一杯だった。 悠斗は諦めたように言った。「口外しないよ。でも、結婚していると聞いた。旦那さん――」 「お父さんのことはお願いね。もう行かないと。」優子は夫の話題を避けるように、早々にその場を立ち去った。 父親の治療が始まってからの2年間、夫である佐藤峻介は一度も姿を見せたことがなかった。彼女が倒れて通行人に病院へ運ばれた時でさえもだ。 かつては彼も優子を大切にしていた。だが、初恋の相手である松本里美が妊娠した状態で帰国してから、すべてが変わった。 優子もかつて妊娠していたことがあった。ある日、湖で松本里美とともに落水した時、必死にもがきながら、彼が里美に向かって泳いでいく姿を見た。 後、里美は無事に子どもを産んだ。でも優子は母親になる機会を奪われた。 7日後、峻介は離婚を求めたが、彼女は拒否した。 だが、病気のことを知った今、彼女は震える手で彼の電話をかけた。 3回目のコールでつながると、彼の冷たい声が聞こえてきた。「離婚以外の用件なら、お前に会う気はない。」 優子は涙をこらえ、癌の話を切り出すことができなかった。すると電話の向こうから里美の声が聞こえてきた。「峻介君、そろそろ赤ちゃんの定期検査よ。」 その瞬間、こらえていた涙が一気に溢れ出した。すべてを終わらせる時が来たのだ。 優子はこ震える声で、絞り出すようにぽつりと呟いた。「峻介……もう、離婚しよう。」 峻介は一瞬、驚いたようだったが、冷笑して言った。「優子、今度はどんな手を使うつもりだ？」 「家で待ってるから。」 峻介は、電話が突然切られた後、呆然とスマホを見つめていた。 一年間拒否し続けてきた優子が、なぜ今急に同意したのだろう？ 彼女に会いに行くことを決めた。 「峻介、どこに行くのよ？」里美が子どもを抱えながら追いかけてきた。 しかし、彼は何も言わず立ち去った。その瞬間、里美の優しい表情はみるみるうちに恐ろしいほど暗くなった。 あの女……また何か仕掛けてきたわね！ 玄関のドアが開いたとき、優子はテーブルのそばに立っているスーツを着た背が高い男性を見た。整った顔立ちは氷のように冷たく、その暗い瞳には優子への軽蔑が浮かんでいた。 「どこに行ってたんだ？」峻介が冷たく尋ねた。 「そんなことはいつから気にするの？」 「離婚届にサインしてもらう必要がある。」 その言葉は鋭い針のように彼女の心を刺した。濡れた体を引きずりながら、彼女はカバンから書類を静かに取り出した。 「心配する必要がない。もうサイン済みだ。」 彼女が書類をテーブルの上に置いたとき、峻介は「離婚」という二文字がこれほどまでに不愉快に思えたことはなかった。優子が唯一要求したのは、2億円の慰謝料だった。 「どうして急に同意したのかと思ったら、結局金のためか。」彼の顔が嘲笑を浮かべた。 かつてなら、自分を弁護するかもしれない。でも、今彼女はただ静かに言った。「本来なら、佐藤さんの資産の半分を請求する権利があるわ。でも、私は2億円しか要求しなかった。これでも、まだ情けをかけてるつもりよ。」 峻介は一歩前に進み、長い影が優子を覆った。彼は彼女の顎を細長い指で掴み、冷たい声で言った。「今、何て呼んだ？」 「佐藤さん、もしこの呼び方が嫌なら、元夫と呼び直してもいいわよ。さあ、書類にサインして帰ってもらっていい？」 彼は不愉快そうな顔をした。「ここは俺の家だ。出て行けと言う権利はお前にはあるかい。」 優子は皮肉げに微笑み、言った。「確かに、その権利はないわ。でも、安心して、佐藤さん。離婚証明書を受け取ったら、すぐに出て行く。」 また、彼の手を振り払い、冷たい目で彼を見つめた。「明日の朝9時、市役所で書類を持ってきてください。」 翌朝、日の出前には優子は出発しようとした時、病院から電話がかかってきた。「高橋さん、お父さんが心臓発作を起こしました。」 「えっ？すぐ向かいます！」 病院に到着すると、手術はまだ続いていた。 今、唯一の希望は父が健康で生き続けることだけだった。 看護師が手術費用の請求書を手渡してきた。総額は300万円以上。 でも、以前支払った入院費で残金はたったの10万円。どうしても足りなかった。 仕方なく、峻介に電話をかけた。 冷たい声が聞こえる。「どこだ？もう30分待っている。」 「急なことがあって――」 「優子、これでおもしろい？」峻介が鼻で笑う。「どうせまた嘘をついているんだろう？」 そんな！ 「嘘じゃない！父が心臓発作を起こして手術が必要なの！――」 「それで、死んだのか？」峻介が遮った。 その言葉に、優子は耳を疑った。そんな言い方する人がいるのか？ 「いいえ！峻介、手術費が300万円以上かかるの。だから慰謝料を先に振り込んでくれない？必ず離婚するから！」 「優子、俺が誰よりも君の父親の死を望んでいることを理解しているよな。金を渡すのはいいだろう、でも手続きが終わった後にだ。」 それだけ言うと、電話は切られた。 優子の顔には困惑が浮かんでいた。かつて彼は父に対して敬意を払っていたはずだった。しかし、今の彼の声には本気の憎しみが滲んでいた。 なぜだ？ 2年前の高橋家の破産と結びつけて考えると、偶然の出来事とは思えなくなってきた。 もうしかして、峻介が裏で何かを仕掛けたのだ。しかし、実家は一体どうやって彼を怒らせてしまったのだろう？ 今、考え込む余裕もなく、父の治療費を何とかするのが最優先だった。 手術室の扉が開いた。「先生？」 「髙橋さん、お父様はなんとか持ちこたえました。」 優子はようやく胸を撫で下ろした。 介護人に父を任せ、市役所に急いだが、峻介はどこにもなかった。 焦て電話をかける。「市役所に着いたわ。どこにいるの？」 「事務室だ。」 「今すぐ離婚手続きを済ませに来てくれない？」 峻介は薄く笑って言った。「数億円の契約とお前、どっちが大事だと思う？」 「終わるまで待つから……峻介、お願い、今父はお金が必要なの。」 「もし死んだら、葬式代を出してやるよ。」それだけ言うと、彼は電話を切った。 再び電話をかけたが、すでに電源が切られた。 優子は息が詰まるような感覚に襲われた。 彼女はあっという間に全てを失ってしまった。 今、優子が持っている唯一の価値あるものは、結婚指輪だけだった。 彼女は指輪を外し、高級宝飾店に足を踏み入れた。 「お客様、購入時の領収書と証明書はお持ちですか？」 「はい。」優子は急いで書類を差し出した。 「ありがとうございます。指輪は検査に出す必要があるので、明日またご連絡させていただけますか。」 優子は切迫した声で言った。「急いでいるんです。今日中にお願いします。」 「はい。」店員が指輪を持ち去ろうとしたその時、ある白くて繊細な手が指輪ケースを押さえた。 「この指輪、とても素敵ね。私が買うわ。」 顔を上げた優子の目に飛び込んできたのは、彼女がこの世で最も憎んでいる人物――松本里美だった		女の子が読みたい小説を大特集		141	https://www.facebook.com/61559954921868/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683943	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/9/25, 11:08 PM	1739147245	1749528509		2524																										fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more			IMAGE	Read next chapter		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=673595984708315&exdata=F9458907D5605AE9DFCFA2E6B59DDCF24CF4CADE27F6EA65			1.0903469850659E+14	Popular romance stories	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476331174_1336256990861006_8349725737286673761_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4Rh3dUU_2mYQ7kNvgEYzkGt&_nc_oc=AdjVH7RGI3Vaj_CMwiRe42XknaQSL4f9HYFlm5Rl5pTIsxtISHa7YGQ3k1V7S24UIZ_JfQWHlqcXbdK3yZrUsT9r&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYDuT6b24oDRet1zLI9JBrvLMRHIMf_T0a-qgwKL6QMsuw&oe=67AF016C	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		On her wedding day, her stepsister set her up, framing her with accusations of promiscuity, academic fraud, and attempted murder. She was personally brought to court by her fiancé and imprisoned for three years, enduring inhuman torment! ===== 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) &9&		Popular romance stories		17983	https://www.facebook.com/100083149047490/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683948	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/10/25, 8:30 AM	1739147248	1749562205		2524																										heplk.com	Learn more			IMAGE	ここをクリックして無料でお読みください！		https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&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}}			3.1105348876231E+14	女の子が読みたい小説を大特集	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476613570_1574801779840948_2351614983809540353_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rIfAE9nBxsAQ7kNvgF4Dr-G&_nc_oc=AdjGkrvthaI8iYbPTrnYblELJ0RCDoqZHD71wDvVdD8EswC2WYVJgrC7h3TYh_EU_Lpsqk1a7elsoQqerwnkzeB1&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYBVpPSYkECiSD-lYrrxMxchFs5lmHX5sQVZuDikzRQJgQ&oe=67AF271A	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		高橋優子が末期癌と診断されたその日、夫の佐藤峻介は、初恋の相手の子供の世話をしていた。 ... 病院で、中村悠斗が渋い顔で言った。「優子さん、手術が成功すれば、生存率は15%から30%になる。」 優子はかばんのひもを細い指でぎゅっと握りしめ、青ざめた小さな顔に深い陰りを浮かべていた。 「先輩、もし手術を受けなければ、どのくらい生きられるの？」 「半年から1年ぐらい。」 優子は唇をぎゅっと噛みしめ、やっと言葉を吐き出した。「先輩、このことは秘密にしてちょうだい。家族を心配させたくないの。」 高橋家はすでに破産しており、優子は父親の医療費を工面するだけでも精一杯だった。 悠斗は諦めたように言った。「口外しないよ。でも、結婚していると聞いた。旦那さん――」 「お父さんのことはお願いね。もう行かないと。」優子は夫の話題を避けるように、早々にその場を立ち去った。 父親の治療が始まってからの2年間、夫である佐藤峻介は一度も姿を見せたことがなかった。彼女が倒れて通行人に病院へ運ばれた時でさえもだ。 かつては彼も優子を大切にしていた。だが、初恋の相手である松本里美が妊娠した状態で帰国してから、すべてが変わった。 優子もかつて妊娠していたことがあった。ある日、湖で松本里美とともに落水した時、必死にもがきながら、彼が里美に向かって泳いでいく姿を見た。 後、里美は無事に子どもを産んだ。でも優子は母親になる機会を奪われた。 7日後、峻介は離婚を求めたが、彼女は拒否した。 だが、病気のことを知った今、彼女は震える手で彼の電話をかけた。 3回目のコールでつながると、彼の冷たい声が聞こえてきた。「離婚以外の用件なら、お前に会う気はない。」 優子は涙をこらえ、癌の話を切り出すことができなかった。すると電話の向こうから里美の声が聞こえてきた。「峻介君、そろそろ赤ちゃんの定期検査よ。」 その瞬間、こらえていた涙が一気に溢れ出した。すべてを終わらせる時が来たのだ。 優子はこ震える声で、絞り出すようにぽつりと呟いた。「峻介……もう、離婚しよう。」 峻介は一瞬、驚いたようだったが、冷笑して言った。「優子、今度はどんな手を使うつもりだ？」 「家で待ってるから。」 峻介は、電話が突然切られた後、呆然とスマホを見つめていた。 一年間拒否し続けてきた優子が、なぜ今急に同意したのだろう？ 彼女に会いに行くことを決めた。 「峻介、どこに行くのよ？」里美が子どもを抱えながら追いかけてきた。 しかし、彼は何も言わず立ち去った。その瞬間、里美の優しい表情はみるみるうちに恐ろしいほど暗くなった。 あの女……また何か仕掛けてきたわね！ 玄関のドアが開いたとき、優子はテーブルのそばに立っているスーツを着た背が高い男性を見た。整った顔立ちは氷のように冷たく、その暗い瞳には優子への軽蔑が浮かんでいた。 「どこに行ってたんだ？」峻介が冷たく尋ねた。 「そんなことはいつから気にするの？」 「離婚届にサインしてもらう必要がある。」 その言葉は鋭い針のように彼女の心を刺した。濡れた体を引きずりながら、彼女はカバンから書類を静かに取り出した。 「心配する必要がない。もうサイン済みだ。」 彼女が書類をテーブルの上に置いたとき、峻介は「離婚」という二文字がこれほどまでに不愉快に思えたことはなかった。優子が唯一要求したのは、2億円の慰謝料だった。 「どうして急に同意したのかと思ったら、結局金のためか。」彼の顔が嘲笑を浮かべた。 かつてなら、自分を弁護するかもしれない。でも、今彼女はただ静かに言った。「本来なら、佐藤さんの資産の半分を請求する権利があるわ。でも、私は2億円しか要求しなかった。これでも、まだ情けをかけてるつもりよ。」 峻介は一歩前に進み、長い影が優子を覆った。彼は彼女の顎を細長い指で掴み、冷たい声で言った。「今、何て呼んだ？」 「佐藤さん、もしこの呼び方が嫌なら、元夫と呼び直してもいいわよ。さあ、書類にサインして帰ってもらっていい？」 彼は不愉快そうな顔をした。「ここは俺の家だ。出て行けと言う権利はお前にはあるかい。」 優子は皮肉げに微笑み、言った。「確かに、その権利はないわ。でも、安心して、佐藤さん。離婚証明書を受け取ったら、すぐに出て行く。」 また、彼の手を振り払い、冷たい目で彼を見つめた。「明日の朝9時、市役所で書類を持ってきてください。」 翌朝、日の出前には優子は出発しようとした時、病院から電話がかかってきた。「高橋さん、お父さんが心臓発作を起こしました。」 「えっ？すぐ向かいます！」 病院に到着すると、手術はまだ続いていた。 今、唯一の希望は父が健康で生き続けることだけだった。 看護師が手術費用の請求書を手渡してきた。総額は300万円以上。 でも、以前支払った入院費で残金はたったの10万円。どうしても足りなかった。 仕方なく、峻介に電話をかけた。 冷たい声が聞こえる。「どこだ？もう30分待っている。」 「急なことがあって――」 「優子、これでおもしろい？」峻介が鼻で笑う。「どうせまた嘘をついているんだろう？」 そんな！ 「嘘じゃない！父が心臓発作を起こして手術が必要なの！――」 「それで、死んだのか？」峻介が遮った。 その言葉に、優子は耳を疑った。そんな言い方する人がいるのか？ 「いいえ！峻介、手術費が300万円以上かかるの。だから慰謝料を先に振り込んでくれない？必ず離婚するから！」 「優子、俺が誰よりも君の父親の死を望んでいることを理解しているよな。金を渡すのはいいだろう、でも手続きが終わった後にだ。」 それだけ言うと、電話は切られた。 優子の顔には困惑が浮かんでいた。かつて彼は父に対して敬意を払っていたはずだった。しかし、今の彼の声には本気の憎しみが滲んでいた。 なぜだ？ 2年前の高橋家の破産と結びつけて考えると、偶然の出来事とは思えなくなってきた。 もうしかして、峻介が裏で何かを仕掛けたのだ。しかし、実家は一体どうやって彼を怒らせてしまったのだろう？ 今、考え込む余裕もなく、父の治療費を何とかするのが最優先だった。 手術室の扉が開いた。「先生？」 「髙橋さん、お父様はなんとか持ちこたえました。」 優子はようやく胸を撫で下ろした。 介護人に父を任せ、市役所に急いだが、峻介はどこにもなかった。 焦て電話をかける。「市役所に着いたわ。どこにいるの？」 「事務室だ。」 「今すぐ離婚手続きを済ませに来てくれない？」 峻介は薄く笑って言った。「数億円の契約とお前、どっちが大事だと思う？」 「終わるまで待つから……峻介、お願い、今父はお金が必要なの。」 「もし死んだら、葬式代を出してやるよ。」それだけ言うと、彼は電話を切った。 再び電話をかけたが、すでに電源が切られた。 優子は息が詰まるような感覚に襲われた。 彼女はあっという間に全てを失ってしまった。 今、優子が持っている唯一の価値あるものは、結婚指輪だけだった。 彼女は指輪を外し、高級宝飾店に足を踏み入れた。 「お客様、購入時の領収書と証明書はお持ちですか？」 「はい。」優子は急いで書類を差し出した。 「ありがとうございます。指輪は検査に出す必要があるので、明日またご連絡させていただけますか。」 優子は切迫した声で言った。「急いでいるんです。今日中にお願いします。」 「はい。」店員が指輪を持ち去ろうとしたその時、ある白くて繊細な手が指輪ケースを押さえた。 「この指輪、とても素敵ね。私が買うわ。」 顔を上げた優子の目に飛び込んできたのは、彼女がこの世で最も憎んでいる人物――松本里美だった		女の子が読みたい小説を大特集		141	https://www.facebook.com/61559954921868/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683951	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/10/25, 10:33 AM	1739147248	1749569620		2524																										heplk.com	Learn more			VIDEO	ここをクリックして無料でお読みください！		https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&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}}			3.1105348876231E+14	女の子が読みたい小説を大特集	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474546830_925778536394977_468404895232371219_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XNO-hK1RkvEQ7kNvgELsHUi&_nc_oc=AdjE4PVnf60S1zAfJOYvS-2pjM_Mauvu1GJGHdmNG1HC008F_hn_wOP6DWz7Z8bqPq6thfiFV1VkQStTrglXB-0o&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYCoSaUJlWpp8oSbgrHcHT8mJ423FA7yLwz2VZUF3pdXQQ&oe=67AEFF2A	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		高橋優子が末期癌と診断されたその日、夫の佐藤峻介は、初恋の相手の子供の世話をしていた。 ... 病院で、中村悠斗が渋い顔で言った。「優子さん、手術が成功すれば、生存率は15%から30%になる。」 優子はかばんのひもを細い指でぎゅっと握りしめ、青ざめた小さな顔に深い陰りを浮かべていた。 「先輩、もし手術を受けなければ、どのくらい生きられるの？」 「半年から1年ぐらい。」 優子は唇をぎゅっと噛みしめ、やっと言葉を吐き出した。「先輩、このことは秘密にしてちょうだい。家族を心配させたくないの。」 高橋家はすでに破産しており、優子は父親の医療費を工面するだけでも精一杯だった。 悠斗は諦めたように言った。「口外しないよ。でも、結婚していると聞いた。旦那さん――」 「お父さんのことはお願いね。もう行かないと。」優子は夫の話題を避けるように、早々にその場を立ち去った。 父親の治療が始まってからの2年間、夫である佐藤峻介は一度も姿を見せたことがなかった。彼女が倒れて通行人に病院へ運ばれた時でさえもだ。 かつては彼も優子を大切にしていた。だが、初恋の相手である松本里美が妊娠した状態で帰国してから、すべてが変わった。 優子もかつて妊娠していたことがあった。ある日、湖で松本里美とともに落水した時、必死にもがきながら、彼が里美に向かって泳いでいく姿を見た。 後、里美は無事に子どもを産んだ。でも優子は母親になる機会を奪われた。 7日後、峻介は離婚を求めたが、彼女は拒否した。 だが、病気のことを知った今、彼女は震える手で彼の電話をかけた。 3回目のコールでつながると、彼の冷たい声が聞こえてきた。「離婚以外の用件なら、お前に会う気はない。」 優子は涙をこらえ、癌の話を切り出すことができなかった。すると電話の向こうから里美の声が聞こえてきた。「峻介君、そろそろ赤ちゃんの定期検査よ。」 その瞬間、こらえていた涙が一気に溢れ出した。すべてを終わらせる時が来たのだ。 優子はこ震える声で、絞り出すようにぽつりと呟いた。「峻介……もう、離婚しよう。」 峻介は一瞬、驚いたようだったが、冷笑して言った。「優子、今度はどんな手を使うつもりだ？」 「家で待ってるから。」 峻介は、電話が突然切られた後、呆然とスマホを見つめていた。 一年間拒否し続けてきた優子が、なぜ今急に同意したのだろう？ 彼女に会いに行くことを決めた。 「峻介、どこに行くのよ？」里美が子どもを抱えながら追いかけてきた。 しかし、彼は何も言わず立ち去った。その瞬間、里美の優しい表情はみるみるうちに恐ろしいほど暗くなった。 あの女……また何か仕掛けてきたわね！ 玄関のドアが開いたとき、優子はテーブルのそばに立っているスーツを着た背が高い男性を見た。整った顔立ちは氷のように冷たく、その暗い瞳には優子への軽蔑が浮かんでいた。 「どこに行ってたんだ？」峻介が冷たく尋ねた。 「そんなことはいつから気にするの？」 「離婚届にサインしてもらう必要がある。」 その言葉は鋭い針のように彼女の心を刺した。濡れた体を引きずりながら、彼女はカバンから書類を静かに取り出した。 「心配する必要がない。もうサイン済みだ。」 彼女が書類をテーブルの上に置いたとき、峻介は「離婚」という二文字がこれほどまでに不愉快に思えたことはなかった。優子が唯一要求したのは、2億円の慰謝料だった。 「どうして急に同意したのかと思ったら、結局金のためか。」彼の顔が嘲笑を浮かべた。 かつてなら、自分を弁護するかもしれない。でも、今彼女はただ静かに言った。「本来なら、佐藤さんの資産の半分を請求する権利があるわ。でも、私は2億円しか要求しなかった。これでも、まだ情けをかけてるつもりよ。」 峻介は一歩前に進み、長い影が優子を覆った。彼は彼女の顎を細長い指で掴み、冷たい声で言った。「今、何て呼んだ？」 「佐藤さん、もしこの呼び方が嫌なら、元夫と呼び直してもいいわよ。さあ、書類にサインして帰ってもらっていい？」 彼は不愉快そうな顔をした。「ここは俺の家だ。出て行けと言う権利はお前にはあるかい。」 優子は皮肉げに微笑み、言った。「確かに、その権利はないわ。でも、安心して、佐藤さん。離婚証明書を受け取ったら、すぐに出て行く。」 また、彼の手を振り払い、冷たい目で彼を見つめた。「明日の朝9時、市役所で書類を持ってきてください。」 翌朝、日の出前には優子は出発しようとした時、病院から電話がかかってきた。「高橋さん、お父さんが心臓発作を起こしました。」 「えっ？すぐ向かいます！」 病院に到着すると、手術はまだ続いていた。 今、唯一の希望は父が健康で生き続けることだけだった。 看護師が手術費用の請求書を手渡してきた。総額は300万円以上。 でも、以前支払った入院費で残金はたったの10万円。どうしても足りなかった。 仕方なく、峻介に電話をかけた。 冷たい声が聞こえる。「どこだ？もう30分待っている。」 「急なことがあって――」 「優子、これでおもしろい？」峻介が鼻で笑う。「どうせまた嘘をついているんだろう？」 そんな！ 「嘘じゃない！父が心臓発作を起こして手術が必要なの！――」 「それで、死んだのか？」峻介が遮った。 その言葉に、優子は耳を疑った。そんな言い方する人がいるのか？ 「いいえ！峻介、手術費が300万円以上かかるの。だから慰謝料を先に振り込んでくれない？必ず離婚するから！」 「優子、俺が誰よりも君の父親の死を望んでいることを理解しているよな。金を渡すのはいいだろう、でも手続きが終わった後にだ。」 それだけ言うと、電話は切られた。 優子の顔には困惑が浮かんでいた。かつて彼は父に対して敬意を払っていたはずだった。しかし、今の彼の声には本気の憎しみが滲んでいた。 なぜだ？ 2年前の高橋家の破産と結びつけて考えると、偶然の出来事とは思えなくなってきた。 もうしかして、峻介が裏で何かを仕掛けたのだ。しかし、実家は一体どうやって彼を怒らせてしまったのだろう？ 今、考え込む余裕もなく、父の治療費を何とかするのが最優先だった。 手術室の扉が開いた。「先生？」 「髙橋さん、お父様はなんとか持ちこたえました。」 優子はようやく胸を撫で下ろした。 介護人に父を任せ、市役所に急いだが、峻介はどこにもなかった。 焦て電話をかける。「市役所に着いたわ。どこにいるの？」 「事務室だ。」 「今すぐ離婚手続きを済ませに来てくれない？」 峻介は薄く笑って言った。「数億円の契約とお前、どっちが大事だと思う？」 「終わるまで待つから……峻介、お願い、今父はお金が必要なの。」 「もし死んだら、葬式代を出してやるよ。」それだけ言うと、彼は電話を切った。 再び電話をかけたが、すでに電源が切られた。 優子は息が詰まるような感覚に襲われた。 彼女はあっという間に全てを失ってしまった。 今、優子が持っている唯一の価値あるものは、結婚指輪だけだった。 彼女は指輪を外し、高級宝飾店に足を踏み入れた。 「お客様、購入時の領収書と証明書はお持ちですか？」 「はい。」優子は急いで書類を差し出した。 「ありがとうございます。指輪は検査に出す必要があるので、明日またご連絡させていただけますか。」 優子は切迫した声で言った。「急いでいるんです。今日中にお願いします。」 「はい。」店員が指輪を持ち去ろうとしたその時、ある白くて繊細な手が指輪ケースを押さえた。 「この指輪、とても素敵ね。私が買うわ。」 顔を上げた優子の目に飛び込んできたのは、彼女がこの世で最も憎んでいる人物――松本里美だった		女の子が読みたい小説を大特集		141	https://www.facebook.com/61559954921868/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683879	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	5/25/25, 1:25 PM	1739147229	1748197518		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			IMAGE	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=16865&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}}			2.1900405462262E+14	Galaxy in the Story	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473569160_914229994248324_6519465248164593127_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DGjmLmG4cC4Q7kNvgH6zNUH&_nc_oc=Adg230XnC6ZcvK_WNRt7Opz6PJLGGHNuc0T1H5_zktojD6lzFMFQabb4zsN6xHpGuX7ECkHWPw4T2LW6DDPBIcBa&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWot1OYEwHq1WqQmsKfEUvg&oh=00_AYD9377YhOFUz8P77JfBWT0Cl3ekeKwvxmaxHcOxiF8D5A&oe=67AF1745	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		My husband Killian arrived late after my grandmother's funeral because he needed to be there for his first love. He looked like he ran in his wolf form. His hair is a mess, and his tie is not even tied properly. He was breathing so fast that he couldn’t even speak. My face turned blank as I locked gazes with him. “Astrid, I couldn’t leave early because I had something I needed to take care of.” My fists balled up at my sides as I narrowed my eyes at him. “Was there anything else more important than to be on your mate’s side at the time that she needed you the most?” I shot back at him. His eyes met mine and for a fleeting moment, a shadow of remorse flickered across his gaze “If only you hadn’t stopped me that night, I would have still met my grandma while she was still alive.” Killian’s grip on the bouquet tightened when he heard my words. “I had no idea I—“ “I kept telling you that my grandmother needed me!” I yelled, interrupting him from his words. “All you cared about is Giselle who is pre9nant with your child.” I blurted out finally releasing all the emotions that I have buried down long enough. Killian could not say a word. My heart which has always been heavy, felt lighter than it was after I finally told him the things that I’ve been wanting to tell him. I glanced at him in surprise when he suddenly crouched down and placed the bouquet of flowers that he brought on the ground where my grandmother had just been buried. “I only came here to pay my respects to your grandmother. I’m sorry if I was late, that was out of my control,” Killian replied like he didn’t just hear the rest of the words that I said. My breath turned shallow and my heart burned more in anger at his heartlessness. Unable to control myself anymore, I picked up the flowers and thrashed them on Killian until the flowers were all shredded into pieces. “You are here to pay respect?!” I screamed at him. I threw what was left of the flowers to the ground. “I’m tired of this. If you can’t give me respect, I should at least give myself some respect,” I spoke in a weak voice as I collected myself together. “Let’s just stop this joke and get a divorce,” I spoke firmly, looking at Killian directly in his eyes.		Galaxy in the Story		2320	https://www.facebook.com/61555427913037/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683939	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/11/25, 5:27 PM	1739147242	1749680839		2524																										fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more			IMAGE	Read next chapter		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=673595984708315&exdata=F9458907D5605AE947DA995932B81A23007483E4AA551B75			1.0903469850659E+14	Popular romance stories	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476294607_998126062192649_9110515377585861607_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6Js5QIPTobUQ7kNvgGsBzRA&_nc_oc=Adi9BNbQOwKkdG8XqZwkAOd_BufCJ8CQG7a5VVdoxzsxUn9BDLu1geq2HMxSMchR6rprubRzLc6ck7RT5X3-0Dn0&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYDKRsEETfPyctH1-EGoQcP-fHGo_U1t0akHAPuBJl2z8A&oe=67AF2125	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		On her wedding day, her stepsister set her up, framing her with accusations of promiscuity, academic fraud, and attempted murder. She was personally brought to court by her fiancé and imprisoned for three years, enduring inhuman torment! ===== 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) &9&		Popular romance stories		17983	https://www.facebook.com/100083149047490/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683924	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	5/27/25, 3:15 PM	1739147238	1748376960		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474668114_3705563542922818_3883049521662464035_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=co6NuTGp-V8Q7kNvgE13vKJ&_nc_oc=Adh8wz33JmwZwnXfE2UKEkuWOxxd57izejbrD3tk4hvDJc_pgRkQoo_YlWS2rsmLgfXXoYtt_lWgqy9ek5rrPh3T&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYB51PYZfGsR9RqCH5HuaCUaYf6xILfH7s9Z2gZz4fO7Ow&oe=67AF1246	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683946	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/11/25, 9:47 PM	1739147247	1749696449		2524																										heplk.com	Learn more			IMAGE	ここをクリックして無料でお読みください！		https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&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}}			3.1105348876231E+14	女の子が読みたい小説を大特集	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476458437_932917845683561_1681156486986924479_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6bZPBglOyHEQ7kNvgHM6IBY&_nc_oc=Adii8cW5Pau9tAax22rDA7uOfdM_2QMHOEIdnvexCuItL4wb4rznqCcTblH40zNy1MpaQ147PWAMcrYCJtTril1F&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYA_A66K8sLLdDl5B2EnNeIderLJAMLH4ftR2nk7-R2cDw&oe=67AF138A	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		高橋優子が末期癌と診断されたその日、夫の佐藤峻介は、初恋の相手の子供の世話をしていた。 ... 病院で、中村悠斗が渋い顔で言った。「優子さん、手術が成功すれば、生存率は15%から30%になる。」 優子はかばんのひもを細い指でぎゅっと握りしめ、青ざめた小さな顔に深い陰りを浮かべていた。 「先輩、もし手術を受けなければ、どのくらい生きられるの？」 「半年から1年ぐらい。」 優子は唇をぎゅっと噛みしめ、やっと言葉を吐き出した。「先輩、このことは秘密にしてちょうだい。家族を心配させたくないの。」 高橋家はすでに破産しており、優子は父親の医療費を工面するだけでも精一杯だった。 悠斗は諦めたように言った。「口外しないよ。でも、結婚していると聞いた。旦那さん――」 「お父さんのことはお願いね。もう行かないと。」優子は夫の話題を避けるように、早々にその場を立ち去った。 父親の治療が始まってからの2年間、夫である佐藤峻介は一度も姿を見せたことがなかった。彼女が倒れて通行人に病院へ運ばれた時でさえもだ。 かつては彼も優子を大切にしていた。だが、初恋の相手である松本里美が妊娠した状態で帰国してから、すべてが変わった。 優子もかつて妊娠していたことがあった。ある日、湖で松本里美とともに落水した時、必死にもがきながら、彼が里美に向かって泳いでいく姿を見た。 後、里美は無事に子どもを産んだ。でも優子は母親になる機会を奪われた。 7日後、峻介は離婚を求めたが、彼女は拒否した。 だが、病気のことを知った今、彼女は震える手で彼の電話をかけた。 3回目のコールでつながると、彼の冷たい声が聞こえてきた。「離婚以外の用件なら、お前に会う気はない。」 優子は涙をこらえ、癌の話を切り出すことができなかった。すると電話の向こうから里美の声が聞こえてきた。「峻介君、そろそろ赤ちゃんの定期検査よ。」 その瞬間、こらえていた涙が一気に溢れ出した。すべてを終わらせる時が来たのだ。 優子はこ震える声で、絞り出すようにぽつりと呟いた。「峻介……もう、離婚しよう。」 峻介は一瞬、驚いたようだったが、冷笑して言った。「優子、今度はどんな手を使うつもりだ？」 「家で待ってるから。」 峻介は、電話が突然切られた後、呆然とスマホを見つめていた。 一年間拒否し続けてきた優子が、なぜ今急に同意したのだろう？ 彼女に会いに行くことを決めた。 「峻介、どこに行くのよ？」里美が子どもを抱えながら追いかけてきた。 しかし、彼は何も言わず立ち去った。その瞬間、里美の優しい表情はみるみるうちに恐ろしいほど暗くなった。 あの女……また何か仕掛けてきたわね！ 玄関のドアが開いたとき、優子はテーブルのそばに立っているスーツを着た背が高い男性を見た。整った顔立ちは氷のように冷たく、その暗い瞳には優子への軽蔑が浮かんでいた。 「どこに行ってたんだ？」峻介が冷たく尋ねた。 「そんなことはいつから気にするの？」 「離婚届にサインしてもらう必要がある。」 その言葉は鋭い針のように彼女の心を刺した。濡れた体を引きずりながら、彼女はカバンから書類を静かに取り出した。 「心配する必要がない。もうサイン済みだ。」 彼女が書類をテーブルの上に置いたとき、峻介は「離婚」という二文字がこれほどまでに不愉快に思えたことはなかった。優子が唯一要求したのは、2億円の慰謝料だった。 「どうして急に同意したのかと思ったら、結局金のためか。」彼の顔が嘲笑を浮かべた。 かつてなら、自分を弁護するかもしれない。でも、今彼女はただ静かに言った。「本来なら、佐藤さんの資産の半分を請求する権利があるわ。でも、私は2億円しか要求しなかった。これでも、まだ情けをかけてるつもりよ。」 峻介は一歩前に進み、長い影が優子を覆った。彼は彼女の顎を細長い指で掴み、冷たい声で言った。「今、何て呼んだ？」 「佐藤さん、もしこの呼び方が嫌なら、元夫と呼び直してもいいわよ。さあ、書類にサインして帰ってもらっていい？」 彼は不愉快そうな顔をした。「ここは俺の家だ。出て行けと言う権利はお前にはあるかい。」 優子は皮肉げに微笑み、言った。「確かに、その権利はないわ。でも、安心して、佐藤さん。離婚証明書を受け取ったら、すぐに出て行く。」 また、彼の手を振り払い、冷たい目で彼を見つめた。「明日の朝9時、市役所で書類を持ってきてください。」 翌朝、日の出前には優子は出発しようとした時、病院から電話がかかってきた。「高橋さん、お父さんが心臓発作を起こしました。」 「えっ？すぐ向かいます！」 病院に到着すると、手術はまだ続いていた。 今、唯一の希望は父が健康で生き続けることだけだった。 看護師が手術費用の請求書を手渡してきた。総額は300万円以上。 でも、以前支払った入院費で残金はたったの10万円。どうしても足りなかった。 仕方なく、峻介に電話をかけた。 冷たい声が聞こえる。「どこだ？もう30分待っている。」 「急なことがあって――」 「優子、これでおもしろい？」峻介が鼻で笑う。「どうせまた嘘をついているんだろう？」 そんな！ 「嘘じゃない！父が心臓発作を起こして手術が必要なの！――」 「それで、死んだのか？」峻介が遮った。 その言葉に、優子は耳を疑った。そんな言い方する人がいるのか？ 「いいえ！峻介、手術費が300万円以上かかるの。だから慰謝料を先に振り込んでくれない？必ず離婚するから！」 「優子、俺が誰よりも君の父親の死を望んでいることを理解しているよな。金を渡すのはいいだろう、でも手続きが終わった後にだ。」 それだけ言うと、電話は切られた。 優子の顔には困惑が浮かんでいた。かつて彼は父に対して敬意を払っていたはずだった。しかし、今の彼の声には本気の憎しみが滲んでいた。 なぜだ？ 2年前の高橋家の破産と結びつけて考えると、偶然の出来事とは思えなくなってきた。 もうしかして、峻介が裏で何かを仕掛けたのだ。しかし、実家は一体どうやって彼を怒らせてしまったのだろう？ 今、考え込む余裕もなく、父の治療費を何とかするのが最優先だった。 手術室の扉が開いた。「先生？」 「髙橋さん、お父様はなんとか持ちこたえました。」 優子はようやく胸を撫で下ろした。 介護人に父を任せ、市役所に急いだが、峻介はどこにもなかった。 焦て電話をかける。「市役所に着いたわ。どこにいるの？」 「事務室だ。」 「今すぐ離婚手続きを済ませに来てくれない？」 峻介は薄く笑って言った。「数億円の契約とお前、どっちが大事だと思う？」 「終わるまで待つから……峻介、お願い、今父はお金が必要なの。」 「もし死んだら、葬式代を出してやるよ。」それだけ言うと、彼は電話を切った。 再び電話をかけたが、すでに電源が切られた。 優子は息が詰まるような感覚に襲われた。 彼女はあっという間に全てを失ってしまった。 今、優子が持っている唯一の価値あるものは、結婚指輪だけだった。 彼女は指輪を外し、高級宝飾店に足を踏み入れた。 「お客様、購入時の領収書と証明書はお持ちですか？」 「はい。」優子は急いで書類を差し出した。 「ありがとうございます。指輪は検査に出す必要があるので、明日またご連絡させていただけますか。」 優子は切迫した声で言った。「急いでいるんです。今日中にお願いします。」 「はい。」店員が指輪を持ち去ろうとしたその時、ある白くて繊細な手が指輪ケースを押さえた。 「この指輪、とても素敵ね。私が買うわ。」 顔を上げた優子の目に飛び込んできたのは、彼女がこの世で最も憎んでいる人物――松本里美だった		女の子が読みたい小説を大特集		141	https://www.facebook.com/61559954921868/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683919	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/11/25, 8:38 PM	1739147237	1749692304		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474752235_3904820036503451_4116952795190505621_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=33yR8E5lvdgQ7kNvgGQ6FUf&_nc_oc=Adh1isKtmm38bmd-MNEt6LlNzSKzJo33WXIg0h8fLwTJcJVMzulqCbmNMpt5oWvqli1NxIQac8KtGP_-ekOoRaQv&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYAEW9iqpaDLVG9wpOr3jCkYkGjok5rTRGn1lUkdxUFehg&oe=67AF2F94	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683871	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	5/27/25, 11:24 PM	1739147223	1748406282		2524																										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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/472185367_955039822658786_7351345240829990793_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YPHO5OV7YI4Q7kNvgESK13y&_nc_oc=AdjmC0CglUvMFVD7WG8yuIDWYnm71Rwsa6n4PuTBdRdAzcGSHbE6IW8YnLCQ6kfeTvzFPeapr5QV20O_BvBsSjgj&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A3mtVq559KOsUgHmBinDUrk&oh=00_AYALS1QK-OyNT18tOclXi3Kbt23HxZLV4y9dwRWBjJ6GxQ&oe=67AF0673	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		The world's first 100% personalized ASTROLOGY BOOK for your self-growth & better relationships. ✨Custom design with your name & birth chart on the cover ✨Personalized birth chart analysis ✨Love & relationship insights ✨Personality & life path profile ✨Career & success guidance Take a 3-minute QUIZ to create your personalized Nordastro book!		Nordastro		11707	https://www.facebook.com/61562597241042/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683909	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	5/28/25, 6:24 AM	1739147235	1748431497		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474584193_999506812223075_5220981476200773484_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rH18-G8sPNAQ7kNvgEGp2x8&_nc_oc=AdiOku5OaXXGKT5TAPiW8CcttBNVm8xQZmt1gHs7OZaVZ56B43vW-U2mue4NXBRUa8DFMdDjcLzlOcUrib0Ey2u5&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYCXEMB6VuUe9G6JIUHnziqWcHDeUp3Nx2FfP702lTNmAw&oe=67AF06C8	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683945	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	5/28/25, 6:25 AM	1739147246	1748431522		2524																										heplk.com	Learn more			IMAGE	ここをクリックして無料でお読みください！		https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&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}}			3.1105348876231E+14	女の子が読みたい小説を大特集	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473759917_929747389265863_6171962254714073082_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=r6NWuI6bTlMQ7kNvgGQoxCa&_nc_oc=Adh3LcfTKt6MC06SUezadhQhJFiluA2RTrj2-7ZEWBDXF8r7IKd36ryRD_VHeCKJ7dzxgar2MwYyQ1GrEgA5h3nd&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYATPV9ecEVZ-zc5zEgAuwNuqydCxmb8ZgKX4NX-LhhH0Q&oe=67AF0284	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		高橋優子が末期癌と診断されたその日、夫の佐藤峻介は、初恋の相手の子供の世話をしていた。 ... 病院で、中村悠斗が渋い顔で言った。「優子さん、手術が成功すれば、生存率は15%から30%になる。」 優子はかばんのひもを細い指でぎゅっと握りしめ、青ざめた小さな顔に深い陰りを浮かべていた。 「先輩、もし手術を受けなければ、どのくらい生きられるの？」 「半年から1年ぐらい。」 優子は唇をぎゅっと噛みしめ、やっと言葉を吐き出した。「先輩、このことは秘密にしてちょうだい。家族を心配させたくないの。」 高橋家はすでに破産しており、優子は父親の医療費を工面するだけでも精一杯だった。 悠斗は諦めたように言った。「口外しないよ。でも、結婚していると聞いた。旦那さん――」 「お父さんのことはお願いね。もう行かないと。」優子は夫の話題を避けるように、早々にその場を立ち去った。 父親の治療が始まってからの2年間、夫である佐藤峻介は一度も姿を見せたことがなかった。彼女が倒れて通行人に病院へ運ばれた時でさえもだ。 かつては彼も優子を大切にしていた。だが、初恋の相手である松本里美が妊娠した状態で帰国してから、すべてが変わった。 優子もかつて妊娠していたことがあった。ある日、湖で松本里美とともに落水した時、必死にもがきながら、彼が里美に向かって泳いでいく姿を見た。 後、里美は無事に子どもを産んだ。でも優子は母親になる機会を奪われた。 7日後、峻介は離婚を求めたが、彼女は拒否した。 だが、病気のことを知った今、彼女は震える手で彼の電話をかけた。 3回目のコールでつながると、彼の冷たい声が聞こえてきた。「離婚以外の用件なら、お前に会う気はない。」 優子は涙をこらえ、癌の話を切り出すことができなかった。すると電話の向こうから里美の声が聞こえてきた。「峻介君、そろそろ赤ちゃんの定期検査よ。」 その瞬間、こらえていた涙が一気に溢れ出した。すべてを終わらせる時が来たのだ。 優子はこ震える声で、絞り出すようにぽつりと呟いた。「峻介……もう、離婚しよう。」 峻介は一瞬、驚いたようだったが、冷笑して言った。「優子、今度はどんな手を使うつもりだ？」 「家で待ってるから。」 峻介は、電話が突然切られた後、呆然とスマホを見つめていた。 一年間拒否し続けてきた優子が、なぜ今急に同意したのだろう？ 彼女に会いに行くことを決めた。 「峻介、どこに行くのよ？」里美が子どもを抱えながら追いかけてきた。 しかし、彼は何も言わず立ち去った。その瞬間、里美の優しい表情はみるみるうちに恐ろしいほど暗くなった。 あの女……また何か仕掛けてきたわね！ 玄関のドアが開いたとき、優子はテーブルのそばに立っているスーツを着た背が高い男性を見た。整った顔立ちは氷のように冷たく、その暗い瞳には優子への軽蔑が浮かんでいた。 「どこに行ってたんだ？」峻介が冷たく尋ねた。 「そんなことはいつから気にするの？」 「離婚届にサインしてもらう必要がある。」 その言葉は鋭い針のように彼女の心を刺した。濡れた体を引きずりながら、彼女はカバンから書類を静かに取り出した。 「心配する必要がない。もうサイン済みだ。」 彼女が書類をテーブルの上に置いたとき、峻介は「離婚」という二文字がこれほどまでに不愉快に思えたことはなかった。優子が唯一要求したのは、2億円の慰謝料だった。 「どうして急に同意したのかと思ったら、結局金のためか。」彼の顔が嘲笑を浮かべた。 かつてなら、自分を弁護するかもしれない。でも、今彼女はただ静かに言った。「本来なら、佐藤さんの資産の半分を請求する権利があるわ。でも、私は2億円しか要求しなかった。これでも、まだ情けをかけてるつもりよ。」 峻介は一歩前に進み、長い影が優子を覆った。彼は彼女の顎を細長い指で掴み、冷たい声で言った。「今、何て呼んだ？」 「佐藤さん、もしこの呼び方が嫌なら、元夫と呼び直してもいいわよ。さあ、書類にサインして帰ってもらっていい？」 彼は不愉快そうな顔をした。「ここは俺の家だ。出て行けと言う権利はお前にはあるかい。」 優子は皮肉げに微笑み、言った。「確かに、その権利はないわ。でも、安心して、佐藤さん。離婚証明書を受け取ったら、すぐに出て行く。」 また、彼の手を振り払い、冷たい目で彼を見つめた。「明日の朝9時、市役所で書類を持ってきてください。」 翌朝、日の出前には優子は出発しようとした時、病院から電話がかかってきた。「高橋さん、お父さんが心臓発作を起こしました。」 「えっ？すぐ向かいます！」 病院に到着すると、手術はまだ続いていた。 今、唯一の希望は父が健康で生き続けることだけだった。 看護師が手術費用の請求書を手渡してきた。総額は300万円以上。 でも、以前支払った入院費で残金はたったの10万円。どうしても足りなかった。 仕方なく、峻介に電話をかけた。 冷たい声が聞こえる。「どこだ？もう30分待っている。」 「急なことがあって――」 「優子、これでおもしろい？」峻介が鼻で笑う。「どうせまた嘘をついているんだろう？」 そんな！ 「嘘じゃない！父が心臓発作を起こして手術が必要なの！――」 「それで、死んだのか？」峻介が遮った。 その言葉に、優子は耳を疑った。そんな言い方する人がいるのか？ 「いいえ！峻介、手術費が300万円以上かかるの。だから慰謝料を先に振り込んでくれない？必ず離婚するから！」 「優子、俺が誰よりも君の父親の死を望んでいることを理解しているよな。金を渡すのはいいだろう、でも手続きが終わった後にだ。」 それだけ言うと、電話は切られた。 優子の顔には困惑が浮かんでいた。かつて彼は父に対して敬意を払っていたはずだった。しかし、今の彼の声には本気の憎しみが滲んでいた。 なぜだ？ 2年前の高橋家の破産と結びつけて考えると、偶然の出来事とは思えなくなってきた。 もうしかして、峻介が裏で何かを仕掛けたのだ。しかし、実家は一体どうやって彼を怒らせてしまったのだろう？ 今、考え込む余裕もなく、父の治療費を何とかするのが最優先だった。 手術室の扉が開いた。「先生？」 「髙橋さん、お父様はなんとか持ちこたえました。」 優子はようやく胸を撫で下ろした。 介護人に父を任せ、市役所に急いだが、峻介はどこにもなかった。 焦て電話をかける。「市役所に着いたわ。どこにいるの？」 「事務室だ。」 「今すぐ離婚手続きを済ませに来てくれない？」 峻介は薄く笑って言った。「数億円の契約とお前、どっちが大事だと思う？」 「終わるまで待つから……峻介、お願い、今父はお金が必要なの。」 「もし死んだら、葬式代を出してやるよ。」それだけ言うと、彼は電話を切った。 再び電話をかけたが、すでに電源が切られた。 優子は息が詰まるような感覚に襲われた。 彼女はあっという間に全てを失ってしまった。 今、優子が持っている唯一の価値あるものは、結婚指輪だけだった。 彼女は指輪を外し、高級宝飾店に足を踏み入れた。 「お客様、購入時の領収書と証明書はお持ちですか？」 「はい。」優子は急いで書類を差し出した。 「ありがとうございます。指輪は検査に出す必要があるので、明日またご連絡させていただけますか。」 優子は切迫した声で言った。「急いでいるんです。今日中にお願いします。」 「はい。」店員が指輪を持ち去ろうとしたその時、ある白くて繊細な手が指輪ケースを押さえた。 「この指輪、とても素敵ね。私が買うわ。」 顔を上げた優子の目に飛び込んできたのは、彼女がこの世で最も憎んでいる人物――松本里美だった。		女の子が読みたい小説を大特集		141	https://www.facebook.com/61559954921868/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683947	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	5/28/25, 6:25 AM	1739147247	1748431523		2524																										heplk.com	Learn more			IMAGE	ここをクリックして無料でお読みください！		https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&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}}			3.1105348876231E+14	女の子が読みたい小説を大特集	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476228454_1275949823639729_8445144620767442986_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pvQ_M7Lyof4Q7kNvgGv1RP9&_nc_oc=Adg_Nhn5sX-r5KgBDrN9bxWEn-OwpM0g3QIrp844cD518mOPI7UAiRPVs-N3nEXoqCgJmHls0oJysc32X9Cp8AGg&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYBjB5rbOsW7RConSIhq29fqPOVvKPDUfopWN0hmViKkUA&oe=67AF01EA	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		高橋優子が末期癌と診断されたその日、夫の佐藤峻介は、初恋の相手の子供の世話をしていた。 ... 病院で、中村悠斗が渋い顔で言った。「優子さん、手術が成功すれば、生存率は15%から30%になる。」 優子はかばんのひもを細い指でぎゅっと握りしめ、青ざめた小さな顔に深い陰りを浮かべていた。 「先輩、もし手術を受けなければ、どのくらい生きられるの？」 「半年から1年ぐらい。」 優子は唇をぎゅっと噛みしめ、やっと言葉を吐き出した。「先輩、このことは秘密にしてちょうだい。家族を心配させたくないの。」 高橋家はすでに破産しており、優子は父親の医療費を工面するだけでも精一杯だった。 悠斗は諦めたように言った。「口外しないよ。でも、結婚していると聞いた。旦那さん――」 「お父さんのことはお願いね。もう行かないと。」優子は夫の話題を避けるように、早々にその場を立ち去った。 父親の治療が始まってからの2年間、夫である佐藤峻介は一度も姿を見せたことがなかった。彼女が倒れて通行人に病院へ運ばれた時でさえもだ。 かつては彼も優子を大切にしていた。だが、初恋の相手である松本里美が妊娠した状態で帰国してから、すべてが変わった。 優子もかつて妊娠していたことがあった。ある日、湖で松本里美とともに落水した時、必死にもがきながら、彼が里美に向かって泳いでいく姿を見た。 後、里美は無事に子どもを産んだ。でも優子は母親になる機会を奪われた。 7日後、峻介は離婚を求めたが、彼女は拒否した。 だが、病気のことを知った今、彼女は震える手で彼の電話をかけた。 3回目のコールでつながると、彼の冷たい声が聞こえてきた。「離婚以外の用件なら、お前に会う気はない。」 優子は涙をこらえ、癌の話を切り出すことができなかった。すると電話の向こうから里美の声が聞こえてきた。「峻介君、そろそろ赤ちゃんの定期検査よ。」 その瞬間、こらえていた涙が一気に溢れ出した。すべてを終わらせる時が来たのだ。 優子はこ震える声で、絞り出すようにぽつりと呟いた。「峻介……もう、離婚しよう。」 峻介は一瞬、驚いたようだったが、冷笑して言った。「優子、今度はどんな手を使うつもりだ？」 「家で待ってるから。」 峻介は、電話が突然切られた後、呆然とスマホを見つめていた。 一年間拒否し続けてきた優子が、なぜ今急に同意したのだろう？ 彼女に会いに行くことを決めた。 「峻介、どこに行くのよ？」里美が子どもを抱えながら追いかけてきた。 しかし、彼は何も言わず立ち去った。その瞬間、里美の優しい表情はみるみるうちに恐ろしいほど暗くなった。 あの女……また何か仕掛けてきたわね！ 玄関のドアが開いたとき、優子はテーブルのそばに立っているスーツを着た背が高い男性を見た。整った顔立ちは氷のように冷たく、その暗い瞳には優子への軽蔑が浮かんでいた。 「どこに行ってたんだ？」峻介が冷たく尋ねた。 「そんなことはいつから気にするの？」 「離婚届にサインしてもらう必要がある。」 その言葉は鋭い針のように彼女の心を刺した。濡れた体を引きずりながら、彼女はカバンから書類を静かに取り出した。 「心配する必要がない。もうサイン済みだ。」 彼女が書類をテーブルの上に置いたとき、峻介は「離婚」という二文字がこれほどまでに不愉快に思えたことはなかった。優子が唯一要求したのは、2億円の慰謝料だった。 「どうして急に同意したのかと思ったら、結局金のためか。」彼の顔が嘲笑を浮かべた。 かつてなら、自分を弁護するかもしれない。でも、今彼女はただ静かに言った。「本来なら、佐藤さんの資産の半分を請求する権利があるわ。でも、私は2億円しか要求しなかった。これでも、まだ情けをかけてるつもりよ。」 峻介は一歩前に進み、長い影が優子を覆った。彼は彼女の顎を細長い指で掴み、冷たい声で言った。「今、何て呼んだ？」 「佐藤さん、もしこの呼び方が嫌なら、元夫と呼び直してもいいわよ。さあ、書類にサインして帰ってもらっていい？」 彼は不愉快そうな顔をした。「ここは俺の家だ。出て行けと言う権利はお前にはあるかい。」 優子は皮肉げに微笑み、言った。「確かに、その権利はないわ。でも、安心して、佐藤さん。離婚証明書を受け取ったら、すぐに出て行く。」 また、彼の手を振り払い、冷たい目で彼を見つめた。「明日の朝9時、市役所で書類を持ってきてください。」 翌朝、日の出前には優子は出発しようとした時、病院から電話がかかってきた。「高橋さん、お父さんが心臓発作を起こしました。」 「えっ？すぐ向かいます！」 病院に到着すると、手術はまだ続いていた。 今、唯一の希望は父が健康で生き続けることだけだった。 看護師が手術費用の請求書を手渡してきた。総額は300万円以上。 でも、以前支払った入院費で残金はたったの10万円。どうしても足りなかった。 仕方なく、峻介に電話をかけた。 冷たい声が聞こえる。「どこだ？もう30分待っている。」 「急なことがあって――」 「優子、これでおもしろい？」峻介が鼻で笑う。「どうせまた嘘をついているんだろう？」 そんな！ 「嘘じゃない！父が心臓発作を起こして手術が必要なの！――」 「それで、死んだのか？」峻介が遮った。 その言葉に、優子は耳を疑った。そんな言い方する人がいるのか？ 「いいえ！峻介、手術費が300万円以上かかるの。だから慰謝料を先に振り込んでくれない？必ず離婚するから！」 「優子、俺が誰よりも君の父親の死を望んでいることを理解しているよな。金を渡すのはいいだろう、でも手続きが終わった後にだ。」 それだけ言うと、電話は切られた。 優子の顔には困惑が浮かんでいた。かつて彼は父に対して敬意を払っていたはずだった。しかし、今の彼の声には本気の憎しみが滲んでいた。 なぜだ？ 2年前の高橋家の破産と結びつけて考えると、偶然の出来事とは思えなくなってきた。 もうしかして、峻介が裏で何かを仕掛けたのだ。しかし、実家は一体どうやって彼を怒らせてしまったのだろう？ 今、考え込む余裕もなく、父の治療費を何とかするのが最優先だった。 手術室の扉が開いた。「先生？」 「髙橋さん、お父様はなんとか持ちこたえました。」 優子はようやく胸を撫で下ろした。 介護人に父を任せ、市役所に急いだが、峻介はどこにもなかった。 焦て電話をかける。「市役所に着いたわ。どこにいるの？」 「事務室だ。」 「今すぐ離婚手続きを済ませに来てくれない？」 峻介は薄く笑って言った。「数億円の契約とお前、どっちが大事だと思う？」 「終わるまで待つから……峻介、お願い、今父はお金が必要なの。」 「もし死んだら、葬式代を出してやるよ。」それだけ言うと、彼は電話を切った。 再び電話をかけたが、すでに電源が切られた。 優子は息が詰まるような感覚に襲われた。 彼女はあっという間に全てを失ってしまった。 今、優子が持っている唯一の価値あるものは、結婚指輪だけだった。 彼女は指輪を外し、高級宝飾店に足を踏み入れた。 「お客様、購入時の領収書と証明書はお持ちですか？」 「はい。」優子は急いで書類を差し出した。 「ありがとうございます。指輪は検査に出す必要があるので、明日またご連絡させていただけますか。」 優子は切迫した声で言った。「急いでいるんです。今日中にお願いします。」 「はい。」店員が指輪を持ち去ろうとしたその時、ある白くて繊細な手が指輪ケースを押さえた。 「この指輪、とても素敵ね。私が買うわ。」 顔を上げた優子の目に飛び込んできたのは、彼女がこの世で最も憎んでいる人物――松本里美だった		女の子が読みたい小説を大特集		141	https://www.facebook.com/61559954921868/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683904	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	5/28/25, 6:25 AM	1739147235	1748431525		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474080156_574356315439712_7718900067459918726_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=od3gJ7maKDkQ7kNvgG_yMKg&_nc_oc=AdiWsKHgG2EX0QEz08w-0vxSP6zLrRpgmS4sCG_mqkxGRWSrlRYr_7RMxdcXAnFMMUuyUPTK7iaA2argmiSjDcYK&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYAT8hKXz2VLC1TymhkCVfywdnm_P8X9hcZmRI-MYtwk5w&oe=67AF3376	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683878	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/18/25, 6:08 AM	1739147228	1750244937		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			IMAGE	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=16865&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}}			2.1900405462262E+14	Galaxy in the Story	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471510284_1123968585334988_567416444404452472_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2TXo9qfrr5MQ7kNvgFFJPDE&_nc_oc=AdjOOx1kmvCcByB1jnyg93jhWJ_5hnBPSRcIiyCA4fVNEL3bU_UCJSq1yMStE1viUtf7NUOnfFRYg0dmYGAbNC-E&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWot1OYEwHq1WqQmsKfEUvg&oh=00_AYAoGLj5x4EmNYBUr19VtTEo7UING72W5k1KhvJcfDshGg&oe=67AF3452	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		My husband Killian arrived late after my grandmother's funeral because he needed to be there for his first love. He looked like he ran in his wolf form. His hair is a mess, and his tie is not even tied properly. He was breathing so fast that he couldn’t even speak. My face turned blank as I locked gazes with him. “Astrid, I couldn’t leave early because I had something I needed to take care of.” My fists balled up at my sides as I narrowed my eyes at him. “Was there anything else more important than to be on your mate’s side at the time that she needed you the most?” I shot back at him. His eyes met mine and for a fleeting moment, a shadow of remorse flickered across his gaze “If only you hadn’t stopped me that night, I would have still met my grandma while she was still alive.” Killian’s grip on the bouquet tightened when he heard my words. “I had no idea I—“ “I kept telling you that my grandmother needed me!” I yelled, interrupting him from his words. “All you cared about is Giselle who is pre9nant with your child.” I blurted out finally releasing all the emotions that I have buried down long enough. Killian could not say a word. My heart which has always been heavy, felt lighter than it was after I finally told him the things that I’ve been wanting to tell him. I glanced at him in surprise when he suddenly crouched down and placed the bouquet of flowers that he brought on the ground where my grandmother had just been buried. “I only came here to pay my respects to your grandmother. I’m sorry if I was late, that was out of my control,” Killian replied like he didn’t just hear the rest of the words that I said. My breath turned shallow and my heart burned more in anger at his heartlessness. Unable to control myself anymore, I picked up the flowers and thrashed them on Killian until the flowers were all shredded into pieces. “You are here to pay respect?!” I screamed at him. I threw what was left of the flowers to the ground. “I’m tired of this. If you can’t give me respect, I should at least give myself some respect,” I spoke in a weak voice as I collected myself together. “Let’s just stop this joke and get a divorce,” I spoke firmly, looking at Killian directly in his eyes.		Galaxy in the Story		2320	https://www.facebook.com/61555427913037/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683890	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	5/28/25, 6:25 AM	1739147231	1748431556		2524																										operkn.com	Learn more			IMAGE	이곳을 클릭하고 무료로 읽어보세요!		https://operkn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11942&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}}			3.2362714083366E+14	남성 소설 모음	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476087752_488676460702412_8286706739599626028_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hIylcWpNANgQ7kNvgGD6V7Z&_nc_oc=AdhdjyiKzAc7BSFNXyA_rPIyjsLgeTqaQNMrZpMPEmwuqYzt_HOmh2G0-G0b-PWOK6pIXwgBQnPshfDTtiVVf44s&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYDsssNaD2o6vb7FO-B-e5QihlZADj54k31719TWhJTe9Q&oe=67AF22C5	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		때는 밤 11시. 형님 집 아래에 있는 공원에서 야간 러닝을 하던 중, 풀숲 속에서 들려오는 남녀의 바스락 소리가 들려왔다. “진동성, 설마 안 되는 거야? 집에서는 느낌 안 산다고 해서 여기까지 왔더니, 왜 아직도 안 돼?” ‘저거 우리 형수님 목소리 아니야?’ 나는 그 소리를 듣자마자 여자가 내 형수님 고태연이라는 걸 알아버렸다. ‘형과 형수는 밥 먹으러 간다고 했는데? 왜 공원 풀숲에 있는 거지?’ 여자 친구는 한 번도 안 사귀어 봤지만 동영상은 그래도 많이 봤다고 자부하기에, 나는 곧바로 두 사람이 무슨 짓을 하는지 알아버렸다. ‘형과 형수님이 이런 스릴을 좋아할 줄은 몰랐네. 그것도 공원에서.’ 순간 몰래 엿듣고 싶다는 생각을 참을 수 없었다. 형수는 얼굴도 예쁘장한데 몸매는 더 끝내준다. 그런 형수의 신음소리라니 이건 꿈에 그리던 일이었다. 살금살금 수풀 쪽으로 걸어가 몰래 머리를 내밀었더니 형수님이 형 위에 앉아 있었다. 물론 나를 등지고 있었지만 등 라인을 감탄할 수밖에 없었다. 순간 입이 바싹 마르고 아랫배에 열기가 올라왔다. 하지만 이렇게 매력적인 형수님 앞에서 형은 영 맥을 못 췄다. “태연아, 나 여전히 안 되는데.” 그 말에 형수가 버럭 화를 냈다. “약도 없네, 정말. 이제 고작 서른다섯이면서 왜 이렇게 쓸모가 없어? 안 서면 싸기라도 해야 할 거 아니야. 아무것도 없으면 애는 어떻게 가져? 계속 이러면 나 다른 사람 만난다? 당신은 애 싫을지 몰라도 나는 엄마가 되고 싶다고.” 잔뜩 화가 난 형수가 바지를 입고는 수풀 밖으로 걸어 나오자 놀란 나는 헐레벌떡 도망쳤다. 집에 돌아온 지 얼마 지나지 않아 형수가 돌아오는 소리가 들렸다. ‘쾅’ 닫히는 문소리에 내 가슴도 ‘철렁’ 내려앉았다. ‘깜짝 놀랐네. 형과 형수님 사이가 이렇게 안 좋을 줄이야.’ 나는 속으로 중얼거리며 가슴을 쓸어내렸다. 여자는 나이가 들수록 욕구가 많아진다더니 형수님도 욕구 불만인 게 틀림없었다. ‘하긴, 형처럼 비실비실한 몸으로 형수님을 어떻게 만족시키겠어? 나 정도는 돼야지.’ ‘퉤퉤퉤! 내가 지금 무슨 생각을 하는 거야? 고태연은 내 형수님이라고 어떻게 이런 생각을 할 수 있어?’ 물론 내가 진동성과 친형제는 아니지만 친형제 못지않게 끈끈한 사이다. 형이 아니었으면 내가 대학도 갈 수 없었을 거고. 내가 이런저런 생각에 잠겨 있을 때, 옆방에서 낮은 신음소리가 들려왔다. 얼른 귀를 벽에 대고 엿들어 봤더니 이건 틀림없이 신음이었다. ‘형수가 지금...’ 생각할수록 몸이 달아올라 도저히 참을 수 없어 나도 결국 바지 버클을 내렸다. 잠시 뒤, 벽 하나를 사이 두고 나와 형수의 신음 소리가 한데 섞였다. 영혼이 이어진 듯한 느낌에 나도 모르게 온갖 생각이 들었다. 형수가 나와 만났다면 얼마나 좋을까 하는 생각이 들어났다. 하지만 이건 절대 불가능한 일이다. 형수와 나 사이에는 영원히 넘을 수 없는 형이라는 존재가 있으니. 형한테 미안한 일은 할 수 없다. 더러워진 속옷을 대충 화장실에 두고 나는 내일 씻자는 생각으로 잠이 들었다. 이튿날, 잠에서 깨었을 때 시간은 벌써 9시가 넘었다. 형은 이미 출근했고 집에는 나와 형수 둘뿐이었다. 아침을 하는 형수는 실크로 된 나시 슬립을 입은 채로 굴곡진 몸매를 드러냈다. 특히 풍만한 가슴을 본 순간 입이 바싹 말랐다. “수호 씨, 일어났어요? 얼른 씻고 밥 먹어요.” 형수는 나를 보자마자 먼저 인사를 건넸다. 내가 이곳에 온 지는 아직 며칠 되지 않기에 형수와 아직 친해지지 못하여 많이 어색했다. 이에 나는 짤막하게 대답하고 곧장 화장실로 향했다. 그렇게 한창 씻던 그때, 갑자기 어제 벗어두었던 속옷이 내 뇌리를 스쳤다. ‘형수가 나보다 일찍 깨어났는데 설마 본 건 아니겠지?’ 이런 생각을 하며 재빨리 확인한 나는 그대로 얼어붙고 말았다. 속옷이 사라졌다. 내가 이곳저곳 찾고 있을 때 갑자기 뒤에서 형수의 목소리가 들려왔다. “찾을 필요 없어요. 이미 씻었으니까.” 순간 가슴이 철렁했다. ‘그 속옷에 내 정액이 가득 묻어 있는데, 형수가 씻었다면 봤을 거잖아!’ 이건 너무 부끄러웠다. 그런데 형수는 팔짱을 낀 채 눈웃음을 치며 아무렇지 않은 듯 나를 봤다. “수호 씨, 혹시 어제 무슨 소리 들었어요?” 나는 고개를 절레절레 흔들며 어제 형수의 소리를 들었다는 걸 극구 부인했다. “아니요, 아무것도 못 들었어요.” “그래요? 내 방에서 이상한 소리 듣지 못했어요?” ‘이건 나를 시험하는 건가?’ “저 어제 10시쯤에 잠들어서 아무것도 못 들었어요.” 이 말을 끝으로 나는 도망치듯 그 자리를 벗어났다. 왠지 모르겠지만 형수의 심문에 가슴이 콕콕 찔렸고 눈은 저도 모르게 형수의 가슴으로 향했다. 분명 마가 낀 게 틀림없다. 나는 곧장 식탁 앞에 앉아 묵묵히 음식을 먹었다. 하지만 밥이 코로 넘어가는지 입으로 넘어가는지 모르겠다. 그도 그럴 게, 형수가 이내 걸어와 하필이면 내 옆에 앉았기 때문이다. 왜 이러는지 이해가 되지 않는다. 예전에는 분명 내 맞은편에 앉았는데, 오늘은 왜 내 옆에 앉는지. 내가 이런저런 생각에 잠겨 있을 때, 형수가 갑자기 손가락으로 내 팔뚝을 쿡쿡 찔렀다. 순간 온몸이 감전되는 듯 찌릿해 났다. ‘여자가 내 몸을 만지는 게 이런 기분이구나.’ 신기한 기분이었다. “수호 씨, 혹시 내가 무서워요?” “아니요. 그냥 조금 어색해서요.” “사람은 원래 어색하다가 점점 익숙해지는 거 아니겠어요? 어색하니까 더 많이 교류해야죠. 그래야 얼른 친해지죠. 수호 씨, 남자와 여자가 가장 빨리 친해지는 방법이 뭔지 알아요?” 내 착각인지 모르겠으나 형수는 분명 나에게 암시하는 것 같았다. 그걸 인식하니 너무 당황해 밥이 넘어가지 않았다. 설렘 반 긴장 반인 심정으로 형수의 말에 담긴 의미를 생각하다가 끝내 용기를 내 질문했다. “뭔데요?” “아이 만드는 거요.” 형수는 맑은 두 눈으로 나를 바라보며 아주 직설적으로 말했다. 그 순간 나는 사레가 걸렸다. 형수가 왜 이런 말을 하는지 이해가 되지 않았다. 내가 형수와 뭘 할 수 있다고. ‘설마 나를 노리나?’ ‘형이 안 되니까 나한테 희망을 품은 건가?’ ‘안돼, 난 절대 형한테 미안한 일 할 수 없어.’ 나는 다급히 의자를 들고 옆으로 물러났다. “형수, 농담하지 마세요. 누가 보면 오해해요.” 형수는 나를 보며 피식 웃더니 곧장 질문했다. “그럼 솔직히 말해봐요. 어제 무슨 소리 들었어요? 솔직히 말하지 않으면 깊은 대화를 해봐야 할 것 같은데요.” ‘헉, 절대 그럴 수 없어.’ 나는 놀란 가슴을 다독이며 결국 입을 열었다. “형수님, 저 확실히 무슨 소리 들었어요. 하지만 고의는 아니었어요.” “혹시 내 신음 소리였어요? 듣기 좋던가요?” 형수님이 이렇게 노골적인 질문을 할 거라고는 생각지도 못했다. 얼굴은 화끈 달아올랐고, 가슴은 요란하게 북을 쳐 어떻게 대답해야 할지 갈피를 잡지 못했다. 그러던 그때. 마침 밖에서 노크 소리가 들려오자 나는 지푸라기라도 잡는 심정으로 얼른 달려가 문 쪽으로 달려갔다. 그리고 문을 열었더니 밖에는 늘씬한 여자 한 명이 서 있었다. 얼굴은 예쁘장한 데다, 나올 데 나오고 들어갈 데 들어가 연예인 못지않았다. 여자는 나를 보자 눈을 크게 뜨며 물었다. “그쪽은 누구죠?” 그 말에 나는 어이가 없었다. “그러는 그쪽은 누군데요?” 제2화 “애교야, 왔어? 얼른 들어와.” 내가 한참 답답해하고 있을 때, 형수가 다가와 낯선 여자를 친절하게 맞이했다. 여자는 형수의 초대로 곧장 집 안에 들어섰다. 그러자 형수가 우리를 소개했다. 여자는 형수의 친한 친구인데, 이름은 이애교, 바로 옆집에 살고 있었다. “애교야, 이 사람은 동성 씨와 같은 마을에 살던 동생이야, 정수호라고, 어제 왔어.” 애교라는 여자는 이상한 눈으로 나를 보더니 이내 빙그레 웃었다. “동성 씨한테 이렇게 어리고 잘생긴 동생이 다 있었어?” “수호 씨 이제 막 대학 졸업했어. 그러니 당연히 젊지. 젊을 뿐만 아니라 엄청 튼실해.” 내 착각일지 모르겠으나 형수의 마지막 한마디는 무척 의미심장했다. 심지어 눈길마저 내 아래를 흘끗거렸다. 그 동작에 나는 더 불편해졌다. 그때, 애교 누나가 나를 위아래로 훑더니 물었다. “태연아, 네가 말했던 마사지사가 설마 이 사람이야?” “맞아. 수호 씨가 어릴 때부터 할아버지한테 마사지를 배웠대. 솜씨가 엄청 좋아.” 형수는 말을 마치자마자 나를 봤다. “아까 미처 말하지 못했는데, 사실 내 친구가 허리와 척추가 아프다고 해서요. 가끔 가슴도 답답하대요. 원래는 한의사를 불러 마사지 좀 받게 하려고 했는데, 수호 씨가 마침 마사지할 줄 알잖아요. 그래서 한번 받아보게 하려고요.” ‘그런 거였군.’ 나는 단번에 승낙했다. ‘형과 형수가 나를 이곳에서 머물게 해주고 일자리도 알아봐 줬는데, 이런 일 정도야 당연히 도와야지.’ 그때, 애교 누나가 부끄러운지 형수를 옆으로 끌고 갔다. “이건 좀 아니지 않나? 너무 젊은데?” “젊은 게 뭐 어때서? 젊을수록 좋은 거 아니야? 젊어야 힘이 좋고, 그래야 너 같은 유부녀를 편하게 모실 수 있잖아.” “무슨 헛소리하는 거야. 나 그런 사람 아니거든.” 애교 누나는 얼굴을 붉혔다. 그러자 형수가 싱긋 웃으며 대답했다. “농담이야. 네가 그쪽으로 생각하니까 그렇지. 솔직히 말해봐, 네 남편 반년 동안 집에 안 왔는데, 그동안 하고 싶지 않았어?” “너 계속 이러면 나 간다?” 그때, 형수가 귀까지 빨개진 애교 누나의 팔짱을 끼며 말했다. “알았어. 안 놀릴게. 너는 점잖고 우아한 귀부인이야. 됐지? 그런데 우리 수호 씨 솜씨 엄청 좋아. 한번 해봐. 젊고 잘생긴 남자가 밖에 있는 늙은 영감보다야 낫지 않겠어?” 애교 누나는 형수의 말에 일리가 있다고 생각했는지 고개를 끄덕였다. “그럼 옆에 있어 줘. 안 그러면 어색할 것 같아.” “그래, 같이 있어 줄게.” 두 사람은 한참 동안 소곤거리더니 그제야 내 앞으로 다가왔다. 애교 누나가 형수더러 먼저 시범 보여달라고 하자 형수는 군말 없이 소파에 엎드렸다. “수호 씨, 시작해요.” 나는 의자를 가져와 형수님 옆에 앉아 마사지를 하기 시작했다. 콜라병 몸매를 소유한 형수의 엉덩이는 동그랗고 볼록해 나는 저도 모르게 때리고 싶다는 생각이 들었다. “태연, 어때? 시원해?” 애교 누나가 물었다. “당연하지, 이렇게 시원하기는 오랜만이야.” 형수의 낮은 신음소리에 나와 애교 누나는 얼굴이 화끈 달아올랐다. 심지어 아래가 터질 것 같아 괴로워하고 있을 때, 애교 누나도 부자연스럽게 다리를 꽉 모았다. “됐어, 애교야. 이제 네 차례야.” 형수는 소파에서 일어나 우리에게 물을 따라주자, 애교 누나는 부끄러워하면서 소파에 눕더니 다리에 담요를 덮었다. ‘쯧, 예쁜 다리를 가리다니, 아쉽네.’ 하지만 아무리 덮는다고 해도 완벽한 몸매를 가릴 수는 없었다. 애교 누나는 마른 체형이지만 나올 데 나오고 들어갈 데 들어간 데다 얼굴까지 동안이라 눈길을 더 끌었다. 그때 내가 손을 어깨에 대자 애교 누나의 몸이 뻣뻣하게 굳었다. ‘형수님은 형수님이라 뭘 할 수 없다지만, 형수님 친구는 괜찮잖아? 게다가 남편이 오랫동안 집을 비웠다고 했으니 엄청 외로울 거야.’ “애교 누나, 시원해요?” “응.” 내 물음에 애교 누나는 부끄러운 듯 낮게 대답했다. 그 대답을 들으니 나는 더욱 대담해졌다. “더 시원하게 해줄게요.” 나는 애교 누나의 등을 타고 두 손을 점점 아래로 움직였다. 그러자 애교 누나가 몸을 부르르 떨었다. “지금 뭐 하는 거예요?” “허리 시큰거린다면서요? 허리 좀 주물러 주려고요.” 살짝 겁을 먹은 채 말했더니 애교 누나는 아무 말도 하지 않았다. 묵인을 얻자 내 손은 다시 애교 누나의 허리 위로 올라가 꾹꾹 누르기 시작했다. 애교 누나의 허리는 매우 가늘어 한 손에 잡힐 정도였다. 하지만 엉덩이는 그에 비해 크고 통통한 애플힙이었다. “사실 누나의 어깨는 크게 문제없어요. 하지만 허리에 문제가 많아요.” “네? 허리가 왜요?” 나는 불안한 듯 묻는 애교 누나의 허리를 누르며 말했다. “신장이 약해요. 신장이 약하면 이렇게 허리가 아프거든요.” “신장은 보통 남자한테 중요한 거잖아요. 나는 여자라서 크게 상관없는 거 아니에요?” “그건 오해예요. 남자든 여자든 신장이 두 개인 건 똑같잖아요. 보통 신장하면 남성 기능 쪽으로 생각하는데, 여자도 기혈이 부족하면 신장이 약할 수 있어요. 누나가 얼굴색이 창백한 것도 기혈이 부족해서 그래요. 이걸 장기적으로 방치하면 다른 문제가 생기거든요.” “그럼 어떡해요?” 애교 누나가 무의식적으로 묻자 나는 씩 입꼬리를 올렸다. “사실 지금은 그렇게 심각한 게 아니라 한동안 이렇게 마사지 받으면 나을 수 있어요.” “그럼 얼른 마사지해 줘요.” “그럼 시작해요.” 나는 애교 누나의 허리를 따라 아래로 손을 내렸다. 그 순간 애교 누나의 몸이 뻣뻣하게 굳었다. 하지만 아무 말도 하지 않자 나는 더 대담하게 행동했다. 내 손은 애교 누나의 엉덩이를 스치며 다리를 덮고 있던 담요를 천천히 걷어냈다. 백옥처럼 새하얀 다리는 역시나 예술이었다. 나는 손을 점점 아래로 내려 애교 누나의 발을 쥐고 발바닥 혈 자리를 꾹꾹 눌렀다. 그러자 애교 누나는 참지 못하고 신음을 내더니 부끄러웠는지 얼굴이 새빨개졌다. “괜찮아요?” 애교 누나는 가쁜 호흡을 가다듬으며 대답했다. “괜찮아요, 계속해요.” 그 말에 나는 계속해서 애교 누나의 발바닥을 눌렀다. 그러다 참지 못하고 애교 누나의 치마 속을 훔쳐봤는데 아쉽게도 다리를 너무 꽉 모으고 있는 탓에 아무것도 볼 수 없었다. 그렇게 한참 동안 누르다가 나는 만족스럽지 않아 대담하게 요구했다. “애교 누나, 혹시 평소에 가슴이 답답하지 않아요? 내가 마사지해 줄게요.” 나는 말하면서 무의식적으로 애교 누나의 가슴을 슬쩍 스쳐봤다. ‘저기를 누를 수 있다면 얼마나 좋을까?’ 거절당할까 봐 걱정했던 것도 무색하게, 애교 누나는 바로 동의했다. “뭐, 그래요.” 순간 너무 흥분한 나머지 나는 의자를 소파 쪽으로 더 바싹 붙이며 말했다. “누나, 반듯하게 누워요. 그래야 마사지할 수 있으니까?” 애교 누나는 고분고분 뒤돌아 소파 위에 반듯하게 누웠다. 애교 누나의 가슴은 형수님 것보다 작았지만 봉긋하게 솟았다. 한 번도 여자 가슴을 만져 본 적 없어 잔뜩 긴장한 채로 손을 뻗으려는 그때, 갑자기 형수의 목소리가 들려왔다. “어머, 두 사람 진도 빠르네.” 제3화 나는 마치 나쁜 짓을 한 어린애처럼 벌떡 일어났다. “형수님, 형수님이 여긴 어쩐 일이에요?” 애교 누나도 잘못을 저지른 것처럼 벌떡 자리에서 일어났다. 심지어 양 볼은 어느새 사과처럼 빨갛게 무르익었다. “태연아, 그런 거 아니야. 나랑 수호 씨 아무 일도 없었어. 그냥 가슴이 답답해서 마사지해 준 것뿐이야.” 애교 누나가 구구절절 설명하자 형수가 피식 웃었다. “내가 뭐라고 한 것도 아닌데, 왜 그렇게 긴장해? 아니면 나 몰래 정말 나쁜 짓이라도 했어?” 나와 애교 누나는 동시에 고개를 저었다. 그와 동시에 당혹스러웠다. ‘내가 감히 형수님 친구를 어떻게 하려 하다니, 만약 형수님이 알면 분명 쫓아낼 거야.’ 그때 애교 누나가 안절부절못하더니 일이 있다는 핑계로 서둘러 집을 나갔다. 형수는 그런 애교 누나의 뒷모습을 보며 멍해 있다가 한참 뒤에 나를 보며 물었다. “수호 씨, 내 친구 어떻게 같아요?” “네?” 형수한테서 갑자기 이런 질문을 받으니 나는 마음이 혼란스러워 말까지 더듬었다. “좋죠. 예쁘고 몸매도 좋고 성격도 좋잖아요.” “그럼 내 친구 꼬시라고 하면 그럴 의향 있어요?” 형수의 말에 나는 놀라움을 감출 수 없었다. 마음도 혼란스러워 무슨 말을 해야 할지 몰랐다. 문제는 형수가 방금 내가 형수 친구를 어떻게 해보려던 걸 발견하고 일부러 떠보는 것일까 봐 걱정되었다. 내가 긴장하고 있을 때, 형수가 내 팔을 잡으며 손등을 톡톡 두드렸다. “긴장할 거 없어요. 솔직히 말하면 돼요.” “형수님, 저 난처하게 하지 마세요. 애교 누나는 형수님 친구인데 제가 어떻게 감히 그런 마음을 품겠어요?” “감히라고요? 아래가 이렇게 단단해졌으면서.” 형수는 내 아래를 흘긋거리며 말했다. 순간 너무 쪽팔리고 난감해 나는 얼른 허리를 숙였다. “와, 사이즈 보통 아니네요.” 내 착각일지 모르겠으나 내 아래를 본 순간 형수의 눈빛이 변했다. 그때 형수가 말을 이었다. “나 농담 아니에요. 애교와 잠자리를 가져요. 형 도와주는 셈 치고.” ‘뭐지? 애교 누나와 자는 게 형과 무슨 상관이지?’ 형수는 나를 소파에 앉히더니 설명하기 시작했다. “동성 씨 회사와 애교의 남편이 현재 사업 파트너거든요. 애교 누나의 남편이 밖에 애인이 있는데 동성 씨한테 사람을 찾아 자기 아내 꼬셔달라고 부탁했대요. 그러면 빨리 이혼할 수 있으니까. 이제 알겠죠?” 나는 연신 고개를 끄덕였다. 알아들은 건 확실하나 이해가 되지 않았다. ‘애교 누나처럼 예쁜 여자를 두고 그 남편은 왜 바람피우는 거지?’ 내가 깊은 생각에 빠져 있을 때 형수가 내 허벅지를 꼬집었다. “무슨 생각을 그렇게 해요?” “아!” 너무 아파 저도 모르게 비명을 지르며 나는 연신 고개를 저었다. “아무것도 아니에요.” “내가 아침에 한 말 기억해요? 남자의 그건 정확한 곳에 써야 해요. 애교 누나의 남편이 반년 동안 애교 누나한테 손끝 하나 대지 않았대요. 그러니까 수호 씨가 조금만 손쓰면 바로 넘어올 거예요. 여자와 자본 적 없죠? 이번이 기회예요.” 형수의 말을 들을수록 나는 얼굴이 빨갛게 달아올랐고, 아랫배에 열기가 몰렸다. 문제는 너무 부끄러우면서도 난감한 부탁이라는 거다. 만약 다른 사람의 부탁이라면 그나마 괜찮았을 텐데. 형수는 내가 꿈쩍도 하지 않자 갑자기 옆으로 바싹 다가왔다. 그 순간 은은한 향기가 내 코끝을 간지럽혔다. 전에 한 번도 형수와 이렇게 가까이 앉은 적 없는데, 지금은 심지어 형수의 온도까지 느껴질 정도라 가슴이 콩닥거리는 한편 긴장했다. “혹시 무서워요? 걱정돼요?” 조심스럽게 묻는 형수의 말에 나는 필사적으로 고개를 끄덕였다. 이건 무서운 정도가 아니라 아주 겁이 나 미칠 지경이다. 여자 친구도 사귀어 본 적 없는 나더러 유부녀를 꼬시라니. 무섭지 않을 리가. 그때 형수가 다시 한번 내 손을 잡으며 한 번도 들은 적 없는 부드러운 목소리로 말했다. “걱정할 거 없어요. 상대는 외로운 유부녀라 마음껏 꼬셔도 돼요. 유부녀를 꼬시는 가장 효과적인 방법이 바로 성욕을 자극하는 거예요.” “성욕이 한번 끓어오르면 끝이 없거든요. 그때가 되면 수호 씨는 아무것도 안 해도 모든 일이 풀릴 거예요. 알았어요?” 나는 건성으로 고개를 끄덕였지만 생각은 이미 다른 데로 날아가 버렸다. 머릿속에는 아침에 들은 장면이 떠올랐고, 형수님의 가슴이 얼마나 매혹적일지 상상했다. 그런데 하필이면 형수가 그걸 보고 말았다. “나 커요?” 갑작스러운 형수의 물음에 나는 바짝 긴장했고, 입이 바싹 말라 넋을 잃은 듯 대답했다. “네.” “만지고 싶어요?” 순간 피가 거꾸로 솟는 기분이 들었고 머리가 윙윙 울려 아무 말도 할 수 없었다. 그때, 형수가 내 쪽으로 갑자기 바싹 다가와 가슴을 내 몸에 눌렀다. 그 순간, 나는 바보라도 된 것처럼 머리가 온통 백지장이 되어버렸다. “그러고 싶으면 싶은 거죠. 민망해할 거 뭐 있어요? 이건 인간의 본능적인 욕구예요. 풀 때는 풀어야 한다고요.” 결국 나는 참지 못하고 이를 악물었다. “만지고 싶어요. 그것도 아주 많아.” “하하하, 잘했어요. 마음이 시키는 대로 해 봐요. 그럼 무서울 거 없잖아요. 하지만 그 욕구는 애교 누나한테 풀어요. 형수인 내가 아니라. 알겠어요?” 순간 기분이 나락으로 떨어졌다. ‘난 또 형수님이 나한테 몸 바치려 하는 줄 알았는데 어떻게 대담해지는지 가르쳐주는 거였잖아.’ ‘하지만 오히려 좋아. 내가 만약 형수와 무슨 일이라도 생기면 형한테 미안해서 어떡해?’ 나는 더 이상 참을 수 없어 배가 아프다는 핑계를 대고 얼른 화장실로 달려갔다. 방금 애교 누나를 도와 마사지할 때부터 참기 힘들었는데, 형수가 나를 건드리기까지 하니 아래가 터질 것만 같았다. 물론 형수가 손장난도 적당히 하면 몸에 좋고 지나치면 몸이 상한다고 했지만, 이 순간 더 이상 참을 수 없었다. 하지만 뜻밖에도 목욕 타월을 올려놓는 선반 위에서 여자 팬티 한 장을 발견했다. 깊이 생각하지 않아도 알 수 있었다. 이 팬티의 주인이 형수라는 걸. 그 순간 그 팬티를 가져야 할지 말아야 할지 수없이 고민했다. 이내 눈을 감고 마음을 진정하려고 했으나, 하필이면 머릿속에 아침에 봤던 장면이 떠올랐다. 심지어 마음속에서 악마의 속삭임이 나를 유혹했다. ‘손장난하는 것뿐인데, 그건 괜찮잖아. 이건 쉽게 얻을 수 없는 기회라고, 놓치면 앞으로는 기회도 없어.’ 결국 나는 그 속삭임에 넘어가 저도 모르게 팬티를 향해 손을 뻗었다. 제4화 팬티는 부드럽고 나른한 데다 심지어 형수의 냄새까지 배어 있었다. 손에 감각이 느껴지자 저도 모르게 아침에 몰래 엿들었던 소리가 뇌리에 재생되며 점차 흥분되었다. ‘형수와 뭘 진짜로 할 수는 없지만 팬티로 상상하는 건 괜찮잖아.’ 나는 속으로 이렇게 중얼거리며 벨트를 풀고 팬티를 밀어 넣었다. 하지만 내 손이 아래에 닿으려 할 때 노크 소리가 들렸고, 너무 놀란 나머지 나는 그대로 뿜을 뻔했다. ‘집에 나와 형수님 둘뿐이니 노크한 사람은 형수님이겠지?’ 나는 서둘러 그 팬티를 꺼내 목욕 타월 선반 위에 올려다 놓고 나서 조심스럽게 말했다. “형수님, 왜 그러세요?” “수호 씨, 안에서 무슨 나쁜 짓 했어요?” ‘이런 말을 묻는다고?’ “네? 아, 아니요.” 나는 찔려서 말을 더듬었다. “그런데 왜 그렇게 떨어요?” 형수의 한마디에 나는 가슴이 철렁해 식은땀을 줄줄 흘렸다. ‘형수가 아무리 개방적이라고 해도 본인과 나는 안 된다고 명확히 말했는데, 만약 내가 형수의 팬티를 가지고 그런 짓을 한 걸 들키면 내가 본인 말을 안 듣는다고 생각해 쫓아내면 어떡하지?’ 하지만 이 상황을 어떻게 설명해야 할지 몰라 나는 애써 설명했다. “정말 아무것도 아니에요. 배가 아파서 식은땀이 난 것뿐이에요.” “갑자기 식은땀이 왜 나요? 혹시 어디 아파요?” 형수는 이내 나를 걱정했다. “저도 모르겠어요. 그냥 좀 불편해요.” “문 좀 열어봐요. 어디 봐봐요.” “이, 이제 괜찮아요.” “내외할 거 뭐 있어요? 수호 씨 내 눈에는 아직 애예요. 그러니 얼른 문 열어요.” 그 말을 들은 순간 실망감이 휘몰아쳤다. ‘내가 형수님 눈에 고작 애였다니. 어쩐지 내 앞에서 거침없더라니. 나는 그런 상대로 한 번도 생각하지 않았나 보네.’ 나는 허리를 숙여 화장실 문을 열었다. 형수는 들어오자마자 나를 보는 게 아니라 목욕 타월을 놓은 선반 위를 확인했다. 나는 마음이 찔려 형수의 눈을 마주칠 수 없었다. 그때 형수가 선반 쪽으로 걸어가더니 나한테 웃으며 물었다. “혹시 내 팬티 건드렸어요?” “아, 아니요.” 나는 다급하게 고개를 흔들었다. “정말이에요? 그런데 얼굴은 왜 그렇게 빨개요? 솔직히 말해요. 방금 내 팬티로 나쁜 짓 하려고 했는데 내가 방해한 거죠? 그래서 내가 들어오는 걸 무서워했던 거고?” ‘뭐야? 천리안이라도 지녔나? 어떻게 저렇게 귀신같이 다 알지?’ 형수는 나를 위아래로 훑더니 내가 허리를 구부린 채 일어나지 못하자 의심의 눈초리로 바라봤다. “똑바로 서요.” 형수는 나를 지그시 바라보며 말했다. 그런 형수의 명을 나는 어길 수 없었다. 하지만 내가 몸을 곧게 편 순간 난감한 상태인 것이 바로 들켜버렸다. 형수도 그걸 본 게 틀림없다. 나는 눈을 감고 형수의 눈을 피했다. 하지만 형수가 천천히 내 앞에 무릎을 꿇는 게 고스란히 느껴졌다. 그 순간 가슴이 튀어나올 것만 같았다. 문제는 형수가 뭘 하려는지 몰라 도저히 모르겠다는 거였다. 너무 야릇한 자세에 나는 저도 모르게 이런저런 상상을 하며 천천히 눈을 떴다. 그랬더니 형수가 멍하니 내 그곳을 바라보며 감탄하는 게 아니겠는가? “동성 씨가 수호 씨처럼 이랬으면 얼마나 좋을까요?” 동경이 가득한 형수의 눈빛에 내 머리는 순간 백지장이 되어버렸고, 가슴은 미친 듯이 요동쳐 무슨 말을 해야 할지 몰랐다. 그런데 형수는 그곳을 한참 바라보더니 다시 일어났다. 나는 얼른 손으로 그곳을 막았다. “아직은 욕구를 풀지 마요. 그래야 애교 누나를 공략할 동력이 생기죠.” 형수는 말하면서 갑자기 나에게 바싹 다가왔다. “사실 나 일부러 이러는 거예요. 이러면 안 되는 거 아는데 동성 씨를 위해서 어쩔 수 없어요. 수호 씨가 너무 부끄럼을 타니까 우선 생각을 오픈해야죠. 손 치워요. 나도 산전수전 겪은 사람인데, 이런 걸 못 겪어봤을까요?” ‘그래도 이 방법은 너무 남다른 거 아닌가? 목숨이 남아나질 않는다고.’ 나는 속으로 아우성쳤다. “나와요. 애교한테 전화할 거니까 같이 쇼핑하면서 두 사람 이어줄게요. 오늘 애교가 수호 씨를 집에 초대할지 기대되네요. 얼른 해결해야 수호 씨 형네 회사도 얼른 제자리 찾을 수 있을 거예요.” 형수는 말을 마치자마자 허리를 흔들며 밖으로 나가 버렸다. 홀로 남겨진 나 역시 그제야 화장실에서 느릿느릿 걸어 나왔지만, 손은 온통 땀으로 젖었다. 너무 참고 있었던 탓이었다. 형수한테 매번 이런 식으로 자극당하고 제대로 풀 수 없으니 미칠 것만 같았다. 하지만 형을 위해서 참을 수밖에 없다. 형수는 소파에 앉아 애교 누나에게 전화했다. “안 나가겠다고? 왜? 안돼, 나랑 나가자. 안 나가면 수호 씨더러 너 안아서 내려오라고 한다?” “뭐? 내가 너무하다고? 그래, 나 원래 이래. 어떡할 건데?” “그래, 그럼 약속한 거다? 5분 뒷문 앞에서 기다릴게.” 형수는 전화를 끊자 나를 향해 웃으며 말했다. “해결했어요. 가서 옷 갈아입어요. 이따가 운전해야 하니까. 기억해요, 자꾸 뒤쪽을 봐야 해요, 서프라이즈가 있을 테니까.” “네.” 나는 짤막하게 대답하고 곧바로 옷 갈아입으러 갔다. 그러면서 내심 형수가 말한 서프라이즈가 뭘까 기대했다. 내가 이내 옷을 갈아입고 형수와 함께 문 앞에서 기다렸다. 그랬더니 얼마 지나지 않아 애교 누나가 나왔다. 붉은 원피스는 애교 누나의 하얀 피부를 더 희게 만들었고, V넥이라 가슴골이 훤히 드러났다. 그걸 본 순간 나는 넋을 잃고 말았다. ‘애교 누나의 몸매가 좋을 줄은 알았지만 이 정도일 줄이야.’ 애교 누나는 일부러 내 눈을 피하며 형수의 팔짱을 끼더니 내 앞으로 지나갔다. 그런 반응에 나는 답답하고 속상했다. 아까 마사지할 때만 해도 분명 살갑게 대했는데, 왜 갑자기 이렇게 차가워졌는지. 심지어 내 눈도 안 마주치고 있다. ‘설마 내가 너무 무례해서 화났나?’ 우리는 곧장 계단을 내려갔다. 그 사이 애교 누나는 형수와 웃고 떠들었지만 나는 혼자 꿔다 놓은 보따리처럼 옆에 덩그러니 서 있었다. 그게 너무 답답하고 괴로웠지만 차에 타자마자 갑자기 뒤를 돌아보면 서프라이즈가 있을 거라던 형수의 말이 떠올랐다. 그 서프라이즈가 무엇인지 궁금하여 나는 계속 백미러로 뒤를 힐끔거렸다. 하지만 형수는 애교 누나와 웃고 떠들기만 할 뿐, 기대했던 서프라이즈는 없었다. “형수님, 우리 어디 가요?” 길을 물어본다는 걸 핑계 삼아 또 한 번 뒤돌아봤지만 여전히 서프라이즈는 없었다. 하지만 애교 누나와 눈빛이 마주친 순간, 애교 누나의 얼굴이 빨갛게 달아오르더니 이내 시선을 피했다. 그건 당황하고 초조해하는 눈빛이 틀림없었다. 그 순간 내 가슴은 철렁 내려앉았다. 애교 누나는 지금 화나 있는 게 아니라 나와 썸을 이어갈지 고민하는 거였다. 그걸 인지하자 나는 기쁨을 주체할 수 없었다. 그건 애교 누나도 나한테 마음이 있다는 뜻이었으니. “광화문 광장으로 가요.” “네.” 형수의 말에 나는 짤막하게 대답했다. 그러고는 곧장 핸드폰을 꺼내 길을 검색하고는 시동을 걸었다. 차가 정체 구간에 이르자 좀처럼 속도가 나지 않아 나는 다시 뒤를 흘끔거렸다. 그리고 그 순간 애교 누나가 팬티를 내리는 모습을 봐버렸다.		남성 소설 모음		124	https://www.facebook.com/61560317043692/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683930	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/12/25, 4:52 AM	1739147239	1749721924		2524																										redtgb.com	Learn more			IMAGE	🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉		https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=17966&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}}			3.4292496556255E+14	Random Reading	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475323796_631115639404441_2505970395524017109_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=E2vAGS4tIGEQ7kNvgFFWIVn&_nc_oc=AdiNYccOi71umlUzlkQ94_t8afTwRUIl-0z6Ma9lhAwaIHa0ta8HymPe8SZZ04d1kQ0aItcrdCfbfe4-NgpvRtqv&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYC3KuR80X6018rooK5E2DWbXNGn5WeLoTWRA3JpE4kCzw&oe=67AF1BE4	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		"Ugh... P-please stop," Zoey whimpered, her voice low and hoarse, closing her eyes with an anxious and fearful expression. "L-let go of me!" she squeaked, struggling as she kept pushing against the broad chest of a man who was crawling over her body. If she hadn't been half-drunk, Zoey was sure she could have fought this man off. But because it was her first time trying wine, her head was spinning, and her body felt weak. Zoey had been invited to a high school reunion at a famous hotel in her city, and she attended the event. One of her friends dared her to drink wine, and Zoey refused, but her friend kept insisting. Eventually, Zoey gave in and took a few sips before stopping. Not long after she drank the strong, clear liquid, Zoey's head felt heavy, and her neck suddenly felt warm. She decided to leave, sneaking away from the reunion quietly. However, as she walked down the hotel corridor toward the elevator, someone suddenly covered her mouth and dragged her away. Now, here she was, in a room, struggling—trying to hold on to the last bit of her consciousness and fighting off a stranger who intended to assault her. No! Her family would be ashamed and devastated if they found out about this. Her dad and older brother would be furious, and it would break her mother's heart. Unfortunately, Zoey's vision was blurry. She couldn't see the face of the man who was violating her. "Aaaah..." Zoey moaned, on the edge of consciousness. She knew she was being assaulted by a man, but she had stopped resisting. She was losing herself to the touches of the man, her awareness fading—it felt like a dream. She wasn't herself anymore. "Ugghh..." Zoey whimpered, biting her lower lip but keeping her eyes shut. Her expression only excited the man further. He had already managed to strip the fabric covering her beautiful body, and his desire grew uncontrollably. He removed his own clothes—getting closer to the bared girl—and then pressed his body against her. "Ugh... Ahh! P-please, no!" Zoey whimpered with the last shred of consciousness, as her eyelids grew heavy and eventually closed completely. - The next morning, Zoey woke up with her body aching and sore. When she tried to lift her head, a wave of pain and dizziness hit her. She felt nauseous, her stomach churning. Realizing something, Zoey gasped in shock. "N-no!" Tears streamed down her face as she noticed her bared body. Her heart pounded in her chest, and a sharp pain spread through it. There was a red stain on the bed sheet! "T-this can't be happening!" she cried, her tears falling even harder—rolling down her cheeks, burning her skin. With her neck stiff and her heart racing, Zoey forced herself to glance to her side—to see who had taken her innocence so cruelly. Thud! Zoey's eyes widened, and for a second, her heart seemed to stop. She was in shock, unable to believe the identity of the man lying beside her—the one who had stolen her innocence. Zoey's previously stiff body began to tremble violently, and fear engulfed her. She hurriedly, but carefully, climbed out of the bed. She dressed as quickly as possible before sneaking out of the room. This was a nightmare! Zoey swore she would never see that man again. Never! Zoey would keep this secret—her family's reputation would be ruined if the truth came out! The man was someone Zoey feared and came from a very dangerous family. He was her cousin! 'Did I seduce him last night? Or… No, that's impossible! I-I can't remember anything! All I remember is leaving the party,' Zoey thought frantically, hitting her still-throbbing head in frustration, angry at herself for not remembering what had happened the night before. There were only hazy flashes, but Zoey couldn't be sure of anything. It was like a dream that felt real, but when you wake up, the memory fades away, leaving you unsure of what really happened. Chapter 0002 Three days after the incident, Zoey felt safe. Her secret of that dark night was something she could hide from her parents and her brother. Fortunately, at the time of the incident, her parents were still abroad, and her brother was out of town on business. Zoey also hadn't run into that person in the past three days. Thank goodness. Right now, Zoey was with her brother, Hayden, who had forced her to come along with him to buy some books. She wasn't sure what kind of books, but he seemed insistent that she should accompany him. "Why are we here?!" Zoey shrieked, already sweating and feeling incredibly nervous as Hayden brought her to Jonathan Robert's house. The house belonged to THAT man's family. Terrified of bumping into him, Zoey trembled. 'Somebody, help!' "Jonathan is back from Paris. I wanna meet him," Hayden explained. "And what does that have to do with me? You freaking liar! You said we were going to a bookstore. Argh!" Zoey screamed, torn between being angry at her brother and panicking at the thought of seeing that man. She really did not want to meet him. No, no! W-what if Jonathan remembered what happened that night?! He could accuse Zoey and think she was a promiscuous girl or a desperate flirt. And to make matters worse, Zoey used to admire him. It would be so easy for him to accuse her, wouldn't it? "Gosh, you're being so dramatic!" Hayden stuffed an orange peel he had found in the car into his sister's mouth, making Zoey fall silent and even more irritated with him. "You should be happy. Why? Well, your kind-hearted brother here is reuniting you with your long-lost love after five years apart." "That was a long time ago. I don't like him anymore. Besides, I already have a boyfriend," Zoey grumbled, refusing to get out of the car. But Hayden, acting crazily, pulled her out of the car and carried her into the grand, luxurious mansion. Once inside, Hayden finally put Zoey down, but he didn't let go of her hand. He kept dragging her along with him. "Hayden, Zoey, come here, darling," called a middle-aged woman who still looked beautiful and youthful—Sophie, the mother of the man Zoey was so terrified of. Blushing slightly, Zoey and Hayden approached her. They kissed her on the cheek and then joined their other cousins. The Phillips and the Roberts family were close. In fact, Jonathan was Zoey and Hayden's cousin. "Hey, Zoey, you're even prettier now." "You've grown up a lot since we last saw you." Zoey just smiled and nodded slightly in response to her cousins' comments. She silently prayed not to run into Jonathan again, as she had sworn never to see him again. Secretly, Zoey glanced around, checking where the man she feared might be. 'He's an extreme introvert. There's no way he'd come out of his room. Hah, I think I'm safe,' Zoey thought, breathing a quiet sigh of relief. "Zoey, what are you doing standing there? Sit down." Zoey gave a shy smile and nodded once again. She looked around, searching for a place to sit. Some of her cousins were sitting on the floor, and others were on the sofa, forming groups. That was typical. She really did not want to be there. She would rather be at the cafe than hang out there. The cousin she was close to, Jodie, wasn't even around. Right now, she was pondering where to sit. 'Hayden is such a bloody liar!' Zoey thought angrily, glancing at her brother, who was still standing right next to her, busy typing something on his phone. If she sat with Raphael, their conversation would be too intense. If she sat with her female cousins, they'd just be gossiping non-stop. Zoey stretched out her hand toward the sofa beside her—intending to rest her arm there. But why did it feel like she was touching hair? Zoey immediately turned to her side. Her eyes widened in shock and disbelief as she realized whose head she had just touched. It was Jonathan. The man she feared the most and the one who had stolen her innocence that night. Chapter 0003 "S-sorry." Zoey quickly withdrew her hand from Jonathan's head. He was now staring at her coldly, with a warning look. "Hahaha…" The laughter of the people in the room echoed. They all knew Zoey used to like Jonathan, and they often teased the two, trying to match them up. But what they didn't know was that now Zoey was terrified of Jonathan. This cousin of hers had once threatened her and even terrorized her. Her feelings had shifted from admiration to fear. Especially after that night, Zoey was even more scared! "Since you touched your future husband's hair, why don't you kiss him too, Zoey? So you can memorize his scent." "Your future husband is back, Zoey. Why haven't you said hi?" Zoey winced in embarrassment, wishing she could leave. Her heart was racing, and her face turned pale. Good grief! Zoey was breaking into a cold sweat. Everyone was teasing her about Jonathan, but none of them realized how terrified she was. How could they know? Zoey had never told anyone about Jonathan's threats. "I think I need to get back to the office. Some urgent business came up," Hayden suddenly said, then turned to his sister. "Zoey, stay here with the others. I'll pick you up later, or someone else will drop you off..." Hayden left his sentence hanging, glancing at their cousins to see who could give Zoey a ride if he couldn't. "I'll take her home," Jonathan said suddenly, his voice low and deep—heavy and resonant, making Zoey's heart pound with both fear and tension. His voice was so seductive, sending shivers through Zoey's entire body. Added to the fact that she used to admire him, Zoey's body couldn't help but respond. But she couldn't deny that Jonathan's smooth voice also made her feel threatened. "No." Zoey shook her head quickly. She couldn't stay here any longer. She had promised herself to avoid Jonathan. "I have something to do at the café," Zoey said hurriedly, gripping Hayden's arm tightly, afraid of being left behind by her brother. Maybe Jonathan had forgotten about that night, but Zoey was still scared to face him. Actually after five years of not seeing him, Jonathan had returned home more charming than ever. Handsome, yes, but now much more terrifying. Especially when Zoey recalled the threats Jonathan had directed at her over the years. Hah. She could hardly remember the time she had been in love with him. To be honest, Zoey had used to idolize Jonathan. She had even dreamed of becoming this cold man's wife. She had tried to get his attention, confessed her feelings, and even asked Jonathan to marry her. But all those feelings had slowly faded. It started when Jonathan suddenly moved abroad and got a girlfriend, which broke Zoey’s heart. One night, he had contacted Zoey with a threat. "You'll know the consequences if you try anything, Zoey. I'll make your life worse than death!" Jonathan's threat still haunted Zoey to this day. Back then, Zoey was naive and innocent, so she had been genuinely frightened. She even fell sick from the fear caused by Jonathan's words. But to this day, no one knew how cruel Jonathan had been to her. Zoey chose to keep it to herself. The crazy thing was that she had ended up having a night stand with this very cousin she feared, and now, here she was, face-to-face with him again. She had spent the last three days trying to avoid him. 'Please let him have amnesia!' That was Zoey's desperate prayer. "Good grief, Zoey! Weren't you the one who insisted on coming here? You wanted to meet your dear Jonathan, didn't you?! Well, here he is, right next to you." 'You sneaky liar! When did I ever say that?! You tricked me, and that's how I ended up here,' Zoey thought in shock, staring at her brother in disbelief. The worst part was that it wasn't just her cousins who liked to tease her about Jonathan. Her annoying brother did it too. Yeah, her own brother! "You wanted to see me, but now you don't want to talk to me? Strange," Jonathan said, his voice low, without looking at Zoey. He was still engrossed in reading a thick book in his hands. His face looked cold and expressionless, his eyes serious and focused on the pages. "Sit next to me, future wife," Jonathan added, his tone deep and heavy, suddenly turning toward Zoey, making her even more nervous and awkward. "Practice sitting by my side before we walk down the aisle." "Ooooh…." Everyone in the room cheered, laughing together. Gah! Zoey wished the ground would swallow her up whole. Jonathan was still as mischievous as he had been five years ago. He always joined in teasing Zoey, just like their other cousins. 'In front of everyone, you seem sweet. But behind them, you're the devil, Jonathan Roberts! I know your dark side, and why am I the only one who knows that?!' Awkwardly and extremely nervous, Zoey finally agreed to sit next to Jonathan. What choice did she have? Her brother kept nudging her, and her cousins kept cheering her on. If Zoey refused to sit next to Jonathan, they'd all get the wrong idea, thinking she still had feelings for him and was just too shy. So… reluctantly, Zoey had to muster the courage to sit beside him, just to prove she didn't have any feelings left. "How have you been?" Jonathan asked after a long silence, once their other cousins were preoccupied with their own conversations. "Fine," Zoey replied flatly, pretending to be busy with her phone, though in reality, she wasn't doing anything on it. Argh! She was so nervous, awkward, and scared. But… Jonathan's behavior seemed normal. Had he really forgotten that night? Or were they both just too drunk to remember? The question was, why had Jonathan been there? He should have still been in Paris at the time. Ah, in any case, Zoey could only hope he had amnesia. Chapter 0004 Unable to handle the teasing from Jonathan's family, who kept trying to match them together, Zoey decided to leave early—using the excuse that her café was busy and she needed to help her staff. "Zoey, are you leaving?" her uncle Gabriel asked, who happened to cross paths with Zoey. Gabriel was Jonathan's father. "Yes," Zoey replied, nodding slightly with a light smile. People said her uncle was quite intimidating, but to Zoey, he was the best uncle. Yes, he was quiet and cold, but her uncle was someone who deeply cared about and loved his family. "Jon, come here for a moment," Gabriel suddenly called when he saw Jonathan walking by, intending to enter the elevator. Zoey immediately panicked, glancing at her uncle, then at Jonathan, who was walking coolly like a king approaching his throne. 'Zoey, you already have a boyfriend. Please forget about Jonathan. Remember! There are many beautiful and smart women in Paris, and last time you saw him, he was with another woman. Don't fall for him again. And don't forget he once terrorized you! Don't fall in love with the devil,' Zoey tried to convince herself in her heart. Zoey's heart pounded wildly, beating faster as Jonathan approached her. When he stopped right next to her, so close that her shoulder brushed against his arm, her heart felt like it was about to explode. This was too close! Her heart wasn't safe around Jonathan! The truth was, this was the man Zoey had always liked, and she had never confided her feelings to anyone. She had kept it all to herself. Yet somehow, the family found out that Zoey had feelings for Jonathan, and now the news had spread, leading to constant matchmaking between her and Jonathan. In the past, Zoey had been shy about being paired with Jonathan. Even now, she was, but she had come to understand something: Jonathan was uncomfortable with it and didn't like it. Five years ago, Zoey had foolishly confessed her feelings to Jonathan. In the spur of a moment, she had told him how she felt. Jonathan had told her to graduate and chase her dreams first, and only then would he consider a relationship. The worst part was that just a few months after Zoey confessed, Jonathan started avoiding her. Not long after that, Jonathan abruptly decided to move to Paris to manage their family's business there. Zoey understood then that he wasn't promising to wait for her; he was gently rejecting her. The most painful thing was that Zoey had impulsively followed Jonathan to the airport, intending to see him off and say goodbye. But when she arrived, she saw Jonathan sitting with another woman on his lap, and they were kissing. That was the deepest heartbreak Zoey had ever experienced. Since then, Zoey had buried her feelings, trying to move on and forget Jonathan, her first love. In the midst of her attempts to move on, Jonathan suddenly threatened her over the phone. That was the cruelest blow to Zoey's heart. Now, Zoey had a boyfriend. She was not quite in love with him yet, but she was sure that after they got married, she would learn to love him. "Your future wife wants to leave. Can you take her home?" Gabriel asked as soon as Jonathan was nearby. 'What?! What is he doing?! Even Uncle Gabriel is in on this?! Ugh.' "Sure, Dad," Jonathan nodded. "A-actually, it's not necessary, Uncle. I've already called a taxi—" "You can cancel it," Jonathan interrupted quickly, grabbing Zoey's wrist and pulling her along with him. "Jonathan, I don't need you to take me home. I can go by myself. Besides, my boyfriend—" "Break up with your boyfriend!" Jonathan cut her off sharply, his tone angry, his expression even colder. "Sorry, but that's none of your business and has nothing to do with you," Zoey responded, her voice soft and careful, though she was both nervous and awkward. Jonathan's sharp gaze was intense and intimidating. This terrified her greatly. "None of my business? Who gave you permission to have a boyfriend?!" Jonathan hissed, his eyes piercing into Zoey. "I'm an adult now, so I can make my own decisions without asking anyone for permission," Zoey said quietly, her voice steady despite her nerves. "An adult? What proof do you have that you're an adult?" Jonathan raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms as he looked at Zoey's sour expression. "I'm twenty-five years old." "Age doesn't guarantee maturity." "My chest has grown bigger," Zoey snapped in frustration, puffing out her chest as if to prove her point. But when she realized what she was doing and saw Jonathan's gaze drop to her chest, Zoey quickly crossed her arms over her chest and stepped back, embarrassed. 'Ah! What was I doing? Oh my God, I'm so embarrassed!' Zoey thought, cringing internally. Her cheeks flushed hot with embarrassment, spreading all the way down to her roots. "Tch, that's fake," Jonathan commented, hands on his behinds, still staring at her chest. "That's padding," he added, making Zoey's eyes widen in shock. 'What?! Fake? Padding?! Is he serious?!' "They're real!" Zoey retorted angrily. "I've seen them," Jonathan said, freezing Zoey in place, her body stiffening, "and they're not bigger than my hand," he added in a quiet voice, now standing so close to Zoey that she could feel his minty breath on her face. Zoey's heart felt like it had dropped into her stomach, her knees shaking. "I-I don't know what you're talking about. Excuse me, I need to go." Zoey pushed against Jonathan's broad chest, rushing away with a pale, panicked expression. Hah, not bigger than his hand? Why did this Frost King suddenly seem perverted? And... Did Jonathan remember that night? – "Let's talk again later. Just hang up; your patients are waiting, and saving lives is more important than a phone call," Zoey said softly over the phone to her boyfriend, Daniel Smidt—a surgeon at a local hospital. They had been dating for six months, and Zoey thought that was long enough to get to know each other. But for some reason, she kept putting off marriage with Daniel. Maybe it was because she still wanted to enjoy her youth. "Huh," Zoey sighed, massaging her temples after Daniel hung up. Once again, Daniel had asked if she was ready to get married. "Should I just go through with it? But I'm not a innocent girl anymore. Ugh, what do I do?" Zoey muttered to herself in the office of her café. Click. The door to her office opened, and Zoey instinctively turned to see who it was. "Excuse m—" Her words stopped short when she saw who was standing there. It was Jonathan. Zoey's heart pounded in her chest. Her eyes widened, and her face turned pale. "Why are you here?" 'Don't tell me he followed me here?' "Break up with your boyfriend!" Jonathan said coldly, not answering her question. He locked the door and began walking toward Zoey, who stood frozen in place. "I've already told you, my relationship has nothing to do with you!" Zoey snapped, trying to cover her nervousness as Jonathan drew closer. "You're going to marry me," Jonathan said casually. "What? Who said I'd marry you?!" Zoey stammered, her face turning red as she grew more panicked. "I won't marry you! I'm going to marry my boyfriend, not you." "Are you sure you want to refuse me?" Jonathan raised an eyebrow. "Yes, I'm one hundred percent sure," Zoey nodded firmly. "By the way, I didn't use protection that night, and I came inside you," Jonathan said coldly, now standing directly in front of Zoey, wrapping his arm around her waist as he stared into her eyes with a sharp, warning look. Zoey's heart felt like it was about to jump out of her chest. Her face wasn't just stiff—it was burning red with both anger and shame at Jonathan's words. And with him standing so close, holding her like this, Zoey felt like she was going to faint. 'I came back for you, but you chose someone else. Tsk, don't think you can escape me!' Chapter 0005 Jonathan kept lingering in Zoey's mind—his mention of their night stand constantly replaying in her head. He acknowledged it but also used it as a threat to force her into marrying him. "But why does Jonathan suddenly want to marry me? There must be something else. It can't be that he likes me. Ugh, he can't even stand looking at me unless Hayden or one of our cousins is around, and only then does he talk to me," Zoey muttered quietly, talking to herself in her room. It was humiliating! Zoey had actually fainted, for real! Being too close and too intimate with Jonathan, she had held her breath, her head suddenly feeling light, and then everything went dark, ending with her passing out. When she woke up, she was already in her room and immediately scolded by Hayden for troubling Jonathan. Luckily, her mom and dad had come home, so Zoey could hide behind them from her brother's fury. Click. The door to Zoey's room opened suddenly, revealing her brother, Hayden, with an annoyed and sour expression. He was probably still mad at Zoey. "Dad is calling you," Hayden said curtly, looking at his sister with a flat expression before turning to leave. "Hurry!" "Alright." Zoey sighed, turning off her laptop and quickly getting up. She had been busy working on a new concept and menu for her café. Though, in truth, her mind had been preoccupied with thoughts of Jonathan. With quick steps, Zoey went to see her father. She entered his office, where her mother was also present. Her parents, Kenneth and Maria, were waiting. Her father had a twin sister named Kendra, but Kenneth and his twin sister bore little resemblance to each other. Kendra, her aunt, had married Jonathan's uncle, Alfred Barron, which was why Zoey and Jonathan were still considered cousins, although not related by blood at all. Kenneth and Jonathan's father, Gabriel Roberts, were very close, almost like best friends since their youth. This bond further strengthened the relationship between the Phillips family and the legendary Roberts family. "What did you need me for, Dad?" Zoey asked after entering the office, sitting in front of her father, who was holding what looked like two wedding invitations. 'Probably just invitations for the company's anniversary,' Zoey thought, staying optimistic as she glanced at the invitations in her father's hand. "Have you seen Jonathan?" "Yes, Dad," Zoey answered, scratching her cheek before glancing at her mom, wondering why her father was bringing up Jonathan. But Maria simply shrugged. "So, next week or the week after?" "Huh? Next week for what?" Zoey asked, increasingly confused. Were her parents going on another business trip? Would she be left alone with her temperamental brother again? Kenneth looked up at his daughter, pushing the sample invitations toward her. "Your wedding with Jonathan." "What?!" Zoey gasped, her face turning pale and her body stiffening. 'Marry Jonathan? God no!' "Why are you so shocked? Didn't Jonathan tell you that you two were getting married?" "No. And I refuse." Zoey shook her head firmly. "Jonathan and I are cousins, and there's a seven-year age gap between us. Besides, I already have a boyfriend, and he's planning to propose." Kenneth's face grew cold as he looked at his daughter with a warning expression. "Everything is already set, Zoey. You can't refuse this marriage." "Yes, darling. Jonathan came back to the country specifically to marry you. So, you really have no choice; you have to marry him," Maria added, leaving Zoey feeling both grim and disheartened. "But why so suddenly, Mom? And don't you both remember that we are cousins? We're close, like a real family, so we can't get married. I-I already have a boyfriend, and he's going to propose to me next week. And I'm sure Jonathan already has a girlfriend in Paris. So I have reasons to refuse this marriage," Zoey protested, rejecting the idea of marrying Jonathan. She had a boyfriend who loved her, and that was enough reason for Zoey to refuse the marriage with Jonathan. As the saying goes, it's better to be with someone who loves you than with someone you love. Learning to love someone may not be easy, but trying to make someone you love reciprocate can be deeply painful. Zoey didn't want to go through that! Especially since Jonathan had been a nightmare to her. His threats and intimidation over the years made her dread the idea of being married to him. Besides, didn't Jonathan already have a girlfriend?! "What are you saying, dear?!" Kenneth sighed slowly, rubbing his forehead before running his hand roughly over his face. "I begged Gabriel to have his son marry my daughter, asking him to convince Jonathan to agree to the marriage. I swallowed my pride for you!" Zoey pulled a face, feeling uncomfortable and struck by her father's words. "Why would you do that?" "For you!" Kenneth snapped, raising his voice without realizing it, his frustration boiling over at his daughter's attitude. He had gone through all of this to grant his daughter's earlier wishes. "I did it because you kept asking for it. Every birthday, you refused gifts from me, instead pushing me to arrange a marriage with Jonathan. And if I didn't agree, you would go on hunger strikes and refuse to speak to me! And now that I've granted your wish…" "But that was when I was seventeen, eighteen, and even at twenty, Dad. After that, I never asked you to match me with Jonathan again. I was just a kid back then! I was impulsive and obsessed with one thing without thinking about the consequences. I'm an adult now, and I don't want to be forced into a marriage with Jonathan. I have my own choices now!" Zoey protested again, unwilling to be paired with Jonathan. And now she understood why Jonathan had suddenly agreed to marry her. It was all because of her father's request and plea. Kenneth cut in quickly. "I love you so much that I humbled myself and begged Gabriel to accept you into their family. And this is how you repay me?!" "T-that's not—" Zoey began, but Kenneth interrupted her. "There were many others who offered their daughters to marry Jonathan, and I competed with all of them. I always believed that my daughter was better than any of them, that you were more worthy of standing by Jonathan's side. Of all the marriage proposals that came for Jonathan, Gabriel chose you to be his son's wife. "Do you know who Jonathan is and how important he is to the Roberts family? He's the main heir, continuing to manage the family's business in Paris—he's the leader of EliteQuality Electronics. Gabriel wouldn't just allow any woman to marry his son. He's selective! And Gabriel trusted you to be Jonathan's partner; he chose you. Whether it's because of my plea or not, you're the one he chose. Please don't destroy his expectations of you, and don't make me lose face in front of him." Zoey sat frozen and silent. Her eyes reddened, stinging with tears after she heard her father's lengthy explanation. She felt as if her heart had been stabbed, realizing she had become a burden to her father. Her father had begged for her to become Jonathan's wife. And on top of that, her uncle Gabriel had trusted her to marry Jonathan. What now? After hearing that Jonathan was the heir to the Roberts family, Zoey felt even more unworthy. But her father had already done so much to make sure she could marry Jonathan. He had even begged for it. 'I'm the most ungrateful and selfish daughter. My past desires have made my father humble himself to that family. I'm so thoughtless,' Zoey thought to herself, unable to speak and only crying, her head hung low. "Let me handle this, dear. I'll talk to our daughter. Maybe she'll listen to me as a friend," Maria said gently, trying to soothe her husband, who was pushing their daughter too hard. Poor Zoey! She was already crying, her head bowed, unable to look her father in the eye. "Hmph." Kenneth huffed in frustration, standing up and leaving the room. "Daddy has done everything so you could marry the man of your dreams, dear," Maria said softly, approaching Zoey and hugging her while stroking her hair. "Your daddy loves you so much! He even begged Aunt Kendra, Uncle Alfred, Uncle Gabriel, Aunt Sophie, Aunt Lucy, and Uncle Roger, all so you could marry the man you've always dreamed of. And now, you've hurt him." "I'm sorry, Mom," Zoey whispered, her voice small. "I-I was wrong." 'You all only know that I used to love Jonathan. But you don't know that now I'm terrified of him. I'm even afraid to look him in the eye. And now I have to marry the man I fear? This is a nightmare.' "Daddy thought you'd be happy when you found out you'd marry Jonathan. Instead, your reaction is like this, and now you tell us you have a boyfriend. That only hurt him more, sweetheart." Maria said while holding her daughter's hands. Zoey shook her head. "I didn't mean to hurt him, Mom. I regret going against him. I'm sorry..." "I'll talk to Jonathan tomorrow and sort this out," Zoey said through her sobs, still crying. "Alright, sweetheart." Maria nodded, continuing to stroke Zoey's hair. Chapter 0006 As Zoey had mentioned to her mother, today she mustered the courage to meet with Jonathan at his family mansion. To avoid drawing too much attention from her family, Zoey used the excuse of accompanying Hayden—just like the previous night. But actually, Zoey genuinely wanted to go, without being forced or tricked by Hayden again. After observing the surroundings, Zoey saw Jonathan in the kitchen. She mustered the courage to walk up to him. "I need to talk to you," Zoey whispered, tiptoeing to reach Jonathan's ear. This man was incredibly tall, and his height was abnormal to Zoey. At 5'5", Zoey already considered herself quite tall for a woman. Jonathan and the rest of his family were unusually tall compared to the average, with Jonathan standing at 6'3". So, next to Jonathan, Zoey felt incredibly short. Even her brother, Hayden, was only six feet tall, which already made Zoey feel like she was short. Next to Jonathan, she felt like a dwarf! "Go ahead," Jonathan said casually, taking a carton of milk from the fridge before closing the door. "Not here," Zoey replied, looking up at Jonathan with a gloomy and nervous expression. Her heart was racing, almost ready to explode. To be honest, there was a lingering fear of this man that made Zoey's hair stand on end. Jonathan's aura was intimidating, and his gaze was hypnotic. "Hmm." Jonathan walked ahead, followed by Zoey. He led her to the rooftop, locking the door so they were alone. Zoey grew more anxious, her heart pounding. But she knew Jonathan wouldn't do anything strange to her since they were still at the Roberts residence. "Sit," Jonathan ordered, already seated in a lounge chair. Zoey nodded and chose to sit in the chair beside him. "Did you come to tell me you've broken up with your boyfriend?" Jonathan asked coldly, without looking at Zoey. Zoey shook her head. "I came to ask you to cancel our wedding. I'm sorry, but I only recently found out that my dad asked your dad for me to be your partner. That was my fault for pressuring my dad to arrange our match in the past. I'm sorry, I was immature. My actions might have made your dad uncomfortable with my dad, so maybe he pressured you into agreeing to marry me. But now, there's no need to feel burdened anymore because I don't want to be your wife, and... and I won't bother you anymore. You can cancel the wedding." "You think it's that easy to cancel this wedding? The invitations have already been sent out," Jonathan suddenly growled, glaring at Zoey in anger. "But—" Zoey stiffened. 'I don't even know the wedding date. How come the invitations are already sent out? Last night, Dad just gave me a sample invitation. What on earth?' Zoey's mind wandered around. "You're being even more childish now! After making your dad beg on your behalf, you're still insisting on canceling the wedding?!" Zoey swallowed hard. "That's why I came to apologize and admit my mistake." "Do you have a brain?" Jonathan snapped sarcastically, silencing Zoey. "Your fake padded chest isn't helping you act more mature. You might as well take it off!" "Jonathan!" Zoey shouted, a mix of anger and humiliation. Jonathan's comment wasn't just sarcastic—it was bullying and body-shaming. To be honest, Zoey felt deeply hurt by Jonathan's inappropriate words, but mostly, she was embarrassed. The truth was… she was wearing a padded underwear. Jonathan's comment about her small fronts made Zoey feel insecure, which is why she wore the underwear to enhance her chest size. "Can you not make a big deal about my chest? You've always brought it up. What's your problem with it?!" Zoey fumed, though she wanted to cry, she was too embarrassed. Crying over her small fronts? Seriously? How pathetic. "Tch," Jonathan clicked his tongue softly, glancing at Zoey's fronts, making her immediately cross her arms in front of her. "Fine, but if you really want to cancel this wedding, it's not a big deal for me." Zoey hesitated, looking at Jonathan with a mix of shame and flushed cheeks—a remnant of Jonathan's earlier words. Jonathan's tone was calm again, but somehow that only added to the horror and danger. Zoey grew even more scared! This man was too mysterious, and Zoey couldn't figure him out. "I've already felt your body," Jonathan said nonchalantly, "and if you still want to cancel the wedding, that's fine. But when you get conceived later, don't expect me to take responsibility. And one more thing, don't drag my name into it!" Like being crushed, Zoey's heart felt like it was about to burst and shatter, leaving her numb and in pain. Zoey froze, feeling slapped by Jonathan's words. This man was truly exploiting that tragic night. Zoey was speechless! "But if you agree to marry me, then from this moment on, you'll call me 'hubby'," Jonathan added with his winning smile. Zoey clenched her hands tightly—she was anxious and restless. Jonathan threatened her and now acted as if he could do whatever he wanted with Zoey. But— What was Jonathan's real motive for insisting on marrying her? Jonathan was always so annoyed and uncomfortable around her. Zoey had already apologized for her father's request that Jonathan marry her. Jonathan was free now! Could Jonathan have feelings for her? Impossible! If he liked Zoey, he would have proposed properly or at least expressed his feelings. Not bullied her and used her as a tool to subdue her. Jonathan seemed… like a pervert! Did Jonathan have a grudge against her?! That made more sense to Zoey. "H-hubby," Zoey whispered nervously. She had no choice! She was terrified of getting conceived, and if she thought about it, she felt selfish rejecting the wedding. Her dad had sacrificed so much for this! The truth was… Jonathan had succeeded in threatening her by exploiting that tragic event. "Not bad," Jonathan muttered softly, leaning back in his chair and staring straight ahead. "But we're cousins. We can't get married." "We're not related by blood," Jonathan replied simply. "Break up with your boyfriend as soon as possible." Zoey nodded. 'Maybe Jonathan doesn't want to see Dad begging him over and over to marry me. Jonathan and Dad are close, so maybe that's why Jonathan is so insistent. Or… is this revenge?' Chapter 0007 After meeting Jonathan, Zoey decided to visit her boyfriend, Daniel, at the hospital. Daniel was supposed to come to Zoey's café, but she had told him not to, especially since Jonathan, Hayden, and their cousins were hanging out there. Ugh, Zoey hadn't even fully agreed to marry Jonathan, yet everyone assumed she had, and here's the kicker—they were getting married in three days. Crazy, right? But that was the reality. The situation was urgent, and Jonathan couldn't stay in the country for long. The company needed him, so everything was rushed. "Daniel?" Zoey said, surprised to see him already at her café—along with a young, conceived woman. 'Oh my God, why did Daniel come here? I told him I'd meet him at the hospital. Ugh, Hayden is here, and so is Jonathan. I'm doomed!' Zoey thought to herself. "Zoey," Daniel called softly, walking toward her while holding the hand of the woman next to him. "I'm sorry we couldn't meet at the hospital. My mom was there, so I decided to come here. I also have something to tell you." "Let's sit over there." Zoey smiled awkwardly at Daniel, feeling the eyes of her cousins and Hayden on her, which made her feel constrained. Daniel and the woman sat down, and Zoey followed, again smiling awkwardly at them both. "I wanted to say…" "I need to talk…" Both of them spoke at the same time, clearly nervous. "Oh, you go first, Daniel." Daniel Smidt, a 26-year-old doctor, nodded awkwardly. "I want to apologize, Zoey. You're a beautiful and talented woman." 'That's a bad sign,' Zoey thought, still smiling gracefully, though her heart was already pounding. She had a bad feeling about this. "I love you. But—I can't wait for you anymore, Zoey. I'm sorry." "What do you mean?" Zoey asked, even though she already knew. She chose to ask anyway, though their intentions were the same, it still hurt. "My parents never approved of our relationship. I'm sorry, there's a difference in our statuses. I'm a doctor, and you're just a waitress in this café," Daniel explained. Zoey smiled sweetly once again, even though… it hurt so much! Daniel had no idea that Zoey actually owned the café, nor did he know that she was the daughter of the Phillips family. But why did it still hurt when Daniel made their status an issue? All humans are created equal! But in reality, many still cared about social status, like Daniel. 'I humbled myself and pretended to be simple so you wouldn't feel insecure about finances. I wanted you to feel like you were worthy of standing beside me. But apparently, a waitress is too low for your family,' Zoey thought. "And… this is Maya. She's seven months conceived by her ex-boyfriend. But since he refused to take responsibility, my family wants me to marry her. I'm sorry," Daniel spoke gently, suddenly pulling something out and handing it to Zoey. "Here's my wedding invitation, and I hope you can attend." "Oh, that's okay. Congratulations, Daniel," Zoey said, accepting the invitation. "Oh, and I need to get back to work. My boss might get mad if I just sit around. Sorry, but I have to go." Zoey quickly excused herself, walking briskly and leaving. Even though she didn't have deep feelings for Daniel, it still hurt to be in this position. Maybe it was just her ego, not wanting to be the one dumped first. But why did it have to be because of her job? She didn't love Daniel yet, but she had put in so much effort for him. Zoey had even pretended to be a waitress in her own café—just so Daniel would feel confident and worthy of her. "It's okay. The important thing is that I didn't hurt him first. Now I don't have to explain anything to Daniel," Zoey muttered, trying to console herself. "Hmph…" But in reality, Zoey still cried. First, Jonathan rejected her because of their age gap, and now Daniel rejected her because of social status. Meanwhile, Jonathan had been watching the entire event between Zoey and Daniel. He even followed Zoey when she went to the café's kitchen. Jonathan saw her go to the corner of the room and sob quietly. That made Jonathan furious! – "Dad, I want to marry Zoey tomorrow." "Are you out of your mind?!" Gabriel looked at Jonathan with a mix of confusion and warning. "They're trying to get the company's data, and I need to return as soon as possible. If it's not tomorrow, then there won't be another day for the wedding. It's tomorrow or never!" Jonathan said flatly, staring at his father with an unreadable expression.		Random Reading		353	https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683907	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/29/25, 7:09 AM	1739147235	1745928568		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474532535_1277438859997486_241044512500918713_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pWSPaaYigToQ7kNvgE01SUi&_nc_oc=Adir-RX4vkZTAKsDTd7TShOlgcrISIJy1_vuOr2l5kUOQYeXsFNqto9aEiVyh2dSG-OeocKrzY51_-AMDn9BDYKS&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYAnuFiisjnvXxj-wv3A_BCC5qsr_ZlzJj4WWo_1KeLRPw&oe=67AF032C	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683952	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/12/25, 12:51 PM	1739147248	1749750681		2524																										heplk.com	Learn more			IMAGE	ここをクリックして無料でお読みください！		https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&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}}			3.1105348876231E+14	女の子が読みたい小説を大特集	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474475537_2194743220920031_5287333366630921935_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TYAiXW6I97sQ7kNvgF8odDj&_nc_oc=AdiChGrR-l1h6ZjFAlG8tiGLKJzkvlYV1Em1cPXEPtX-KqrAw5mnTfE2wFEF8JDbyAJzl4X8H5bGXDg3J__WGS0w&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYCszIX_-WR0PFA2eBTthwsDKTnOd3D8rge-LjGPQHuIRw&oe=67AF2586	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		高橋優子が末期癌と診断されたその日、夫の佐藤峻介は、初恋の相手の子供の世話をしていた。 ... 病院で、中村悠斗が渋い顔で言った。「優子さん、手術が成功すれば、生存率は15%から30%になる。」 優子はかばんのひもを細い指でぎゅっと握りしめ、青ざめた小さな顔に深い陰りを浮かべていた。 「先輩、もし手術を受けなければ、どのくらい生きられるの？」 「半年から1年ぐらい。」 優子は唇をぎゅっと噛みしめ、やっと言葉を吐き出した。「先輩、このことは秘密にしてちょうだい。家族を心配させたくないの。」 高橋家はすでに破産しており、優子は父親の医療費を工面するだけでも精一杯だった。 悠斗は諦めたように言った。「口外しないよ。でも、結婚していると聞いた。旦那さん――」 「お父さんのことはお願いね。もう行かないと。」優子は夫の話題を避けるように、早々にその場を立ち去った。 父親の治療が始まってからの2年間、夫である佐藤峻介は一度も姿を見せたことがなかった。彼女が倒れて通行人に病院へ運ばれた時でさえもだ。 かつては彼も優子を大切にしていた。だが、初恋の相手である松本里美が妊娠した状態で帰国してから、すべてが変わった。 優子もかつて妊娠していたことがあった。ある日、湖で松本里美とともに落水した時、必死にもがきながら、彼が里美に向かって泳いでいく姿を見た。 後、里美は無事に子どもを産んだ。でも優子は母親になる機会を奪われた。 7日後、峻介は離婚を求めたが、彼女は拒否した。 だが、病気のことを知った今、彼女は震える手で彼の電話をかけた。 3回目のコールでつながると、彼の冷たい声が聞こえてきた。「離婚以外の用件なら、お前に会う気はない。」 優子は涙をこらえ、癌の話を切り出すことができなかった。すると電話の向こうから里美の声が聞こえてきた。「峻介君、そろそろ赤ちゃんの定期検査よ。」 その瞬間、こらえていた涙が一気に溢れ出した。すべてを終わらせる時が来たのだ。 優子はこ震える声で、絞り出すようにぽつりと呟いた。「峻介……もう、離婚しよう。」 峻介は一瞬、驚いたようだったが、冷笑して言った。「優子、今度はどんな手を使うつもりだ？」 「家で待ってるから。」 峻介は、電話が突然切られた後、呆然とスマホを見つめていた。 一年間拒否し続けてきた優子が、なぜ今急に同意したのだろう？ 彼女に会いに行くことを決めた。 「峻介、どこに行くのよ？」里美が子どもを抱えながら追いかけてきた。 しかし、彼は何も言わず立ち去った。その瞬間、里美の優しい表情はみるみるうちに恐ろしいほど暗くなった。 あの女……また何か仕掛けてきたわね！ 玄関のドアが開いたとき、優子はテーブルのそばに立っているスーツを着た背が高い男性を見た。整った顔立ちは氷のように冷たく、その暗い瞳には優子への軽蔑が浮かんでいた。 「どこに行ってたんだ？」峻介が冷たく尋ねた。 「そんなことはいつから気にするの？」 「離婚届にサインしてもらう必要がある。」 その言葉は鋭い針のように彼女の心を刺した。濡れた体を引きずりながら、彼女はカバンから書類を静かに取り出した。 「心配する必要がない。もうサイン済みだ。」 彼女が書類をテーブルの上に置いたとき、峻介は「離婚」という二文字がこれほどまでに不愉快に思えたことはなかった。優子が唯一要求したのは、2億円の慰謝料だった。 「どうして急に同意したのかと思ったら、結局金のためか。」彼の顔が嘲笑を浮かべた。 かつてなら、自分を弁護するかもしれない。でも、今彼女はただ静かに言った。「本来なら、佐藤さんの資産の半分を請求する権利があるわ。でも、私は2億円しか要求しなかった。これでも、まだ情けをかけてるつもりよ。」 峻介は一歩前に進み、長い影が優子を覆った。彼は彼女の顎を細長い指で掴み、冷たい声で言った。「今、何て呼んだ？」 「佐藤さん、もしこの呼び方が嫌なら、元夫と呼び直してもいいわよ。さあ、書類にサインして帰ってもらっていい？」 彼は不愉快そうな顔をした。「ここは俺の家だ。出て行けと言う権利はお前にはあるかい。」 優子は皮肉げに微笑み、言った。「確かに、その権利はないわ。でも、安心して、佐藤さん。離婚証明書を受け取ったら、すぐに出て行く。」 また、彼の手を振り払い、冷たい目で彼を見つめた。「明日の朝9時、市役所で書類を持ってきてください。」 翌朝、日の出前には優子は出発しようとした時、病院から電話がかかってきた。「高橋さん、お父さんが心臓発作を起こしました。」 「えっ？すぐ向かいます！」 病院に到着すると、手術はまだ続いていた。 今、唯一の希望は父が健康で生き続けることだけだった。 看護師が手術費用の請求書を手渡してきた。総額は300万円以上。 でも、以前支払った入院費で残金はたったの10万円。どうしても足りなかった。 仕方なく、峻介に電話をかけた。 冷たい声が聞こえる。「どこだ？もう30分待っている。」 「急なことがあって――」 「優子、これでおもしろい？」峻介が鼻で笑う。「どうせまた嘘をついているんだろう？」 そんな！ 「嘘じゃない！父が心臓発作を起こして手術が必要なの！――」 「それで、死んだのか？」峻介が遮った。 その言葉に、優子は耳を疑った。そんな言い方する人がいるのか？ 「いいえ！峻介、手術費が300万円以上かかるの。だから慰謝料を先に振り込んでくれない？必ず離婚するから！」 「優子、俺が誰よりも君の父親の死を望んでいることを理解しているよな。金を渡すのはいいだろう、でも手続きが終わった後にだ。」 それだけ言うと、電話は切られた。 優子の顔には困惑が浮かんでいた。かつて彼は父に対して敬意を払っていたはずだった。しかし、今の彼の声には本気の憎しみが滲んでいた。 なぜだ？ 2年前の高橋家の破産と結びつけて考えると、偶然の出来事とは思えなくなってきた。 もうしかして、峻介が裏で何かを仕掛けたのだ。しかし、実家は一体どうやって彼を怒らせてしまったのだろう？ 今、考え込む余裕もなく、父の治療費を何とかするのが最優先だった。 手術室の扉が開いた。「先生？」 「髙橋さん、お父様はなんとか持ちこたえました。」 優子はようやく胸を撫で下ろした。 介護人に父を任せ、市役所に急いだが、峻介はどこにもなかった。 焦て電話をかける。「市役所に着いたわ。どこにいるの？」 「事務室だ。」 「今すぐ離婚手続きを済ませに来てくれない？」 峻介は薄く笑って言った。「数億円の契約とお前、どっちが大事だと思う？」 「終わるまで待つから……峻介、お願い、今父はお金が必要なの。」 「もし死んだら、葬式代を出してやるよ。」それだけ言うと、彼は電話を切った。 再び電話をかけたが、すでに電源が切られた。 優子は息が詰まるような感覚に襲われた。 彼女はあっという間に全てを失ってしまった。 今、優子が持っている唯一の価値あるものは、結婚指輪だけだった。 彼女は指輪を外し、高級宝飾店に足を踏み入れた。 「お客様、購入時の領収書と証明書はお持ちですか？」 「はい。」優子は急いで書類を差し出した。 「ありがとうございます。指輪は検査に出す必要があるので、明日またご連絡させていただけますか。」 優子は切迫した声で言った。「急いでいるんです。今日中にお願いします。」 「はい。」店員が指輪を持ち去ろうとしたその時、ある白くて繊細な手が指輪ケースを押さえた。 「この指輪、とても素敵ね。私が買うわ。」 顔を上げた優子の目に飛び込んできたのは、彼女がこの世で最も憎んでいる人物――松本里美だった		女の子が読みたい小説を大特集		141	https://www.facebook.com/61559954921868/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683872	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	5/30/25, 5:10 PM	1739147226	1748643043		2524																										nordastro.com	Learn more			IMAGE	#1 Personalized Astrology Book		https://nordastro.com/start?qz=na1&locale=EN_US			3.8747147444381E+14	Nordastro	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465440445_2332225843783298_3175356712100923524_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VzqWKH2lFMEQ7kNvgFFvhWv&_nc_oc=AdgHV179145fyS5tYwQ3mWgCW7e0W9vntodpWOteWRbmfKWav7Aclg4ecN7IgwuRTG22_Q6CT6j4xJtGB1ggS6Xf&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A3mtVq559KOsUgHmBinDUrk&oh=00_AYB4hVZrA8BbZWx5w4tmZ-U1yIyJ2dOV9DLR3d0aWOzPmw&oe=67AF0F10	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		🔮 By completing the QUIZ, you will receive your personalized analysis, which includes: ♐ The zodiac sign and personality type of the partner you will marry 🗺️ Your life path prognosis 💸 Career & success guidance to attract money ⭐ Personalized birth chart analysis		Nordastro		11707	https://www.facebook.com/61562597241042/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683873	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/25/25, 3:48 PM	1739147227	1745614092		2524																										mypetcanvas.com	Shop Now			DCO	Transform Your Pet's Photo into Vibrant Art!	Trusted by Over 12K Pet Parents	https://mypetcanvas.com/products/basquiat-canvas			1.0388033180679E+14	My Pet Canvas	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/453017146_422292733458631_8129222518644715058_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B8vaUN7ZGLQQ7kNvgFjrq-H&_nc_oc=AdhfHgOUpy3u3Dr_3B3po_5prJbTOPEdL7TK5toFW6Tq7CW925z0XflgYC2qrxR_XS6V-JWgLj2Dg7mnMb_FhGan&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A3mtVq559KOsUgHmBinDUrk&oh=00_AYCNL3rwQRKyEKS4ttafA5Ex-RnhrrAxUHsdpVzuhJDmUw&oe=67AF1C24	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		🐶 Surprise your loved ones with a personalized portrait of their furry friend! Each canvas is a unique work of art, created with love and attention to detail. Order now at mypetcanvas.com		My Pet Canvas		1537	https://www.facebook.com/mypet.canvas.official/	0		SHOP_NOW								View Edit Delete
2683886	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/12/25, 8:16 PM	1739147230	1749777400		2524																										operkn.com	Learn more			IMAGE	이곳을 클릭하고 무료로 읽어보세요!		https://operkn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11942&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}}			3.2362714083366E+14	남성 소설 모음	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476615951_970130197942773_6020100051004808590_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O1Cm7oJas5kQ7kNvgH89-R1&_nc_oc=AdhY5MqgSg3FfZw95qRyFKWE5TZtNT3j7r6sEDZYOZR_cfDiKuW1GNaAH5i8hgY7-gblBYjYwa_SiEXFyG6sQ_0-&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYCUOVaB7N3Iyf3h1qKq-GcksUQ0k9mBtlgl9GyBWoVlXA&oe=67AF344F	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		때는 밤 11시. 형님 집 아래에 있는 공원에서 야간 러닝을 하던 중, 풀숲 속에서 들려오는 남녀의 바스락 소리가 들려왔다. “진동성, 설마 안 되는 거야? 집에서는 느낌 안 산다고 해서 여기까지 왔더니, 왜 아직도 안 돼?” ‘저거 우리 형수님 목소리 아니야?’ 나는 그 소리를 듣자마자 여자가 내 형수님 고태연이라는 걸 알아버렸다. ‘형과 형수는 밥 먹으러 간다고 했는데? 왜 공원 풀숲에 있는 거지?’ 여자 친구는 한 번도 안 사귀어 봤지만 동영상은 그래도 많이 봤다고 자부하기에, 나는 곧바로 두 사람이 무슨 짓을 하는지 알아버렸다. ‘형과 형수님이 이런 스릴을 좋아할 줄은 몰랐네. 그것도 공원에서.’ 순간 몰래 엿듣고 싶다는 생각을 참을 수 없었다. 형수는 얼굴도 예쁘장한데 몸매는 더 끝내준다. 그런 형수의 신음소리라니 이건 꿈에 그리던 일이었다. 살금살금 수풀 쪽으로 걸어가 몰래 머리를 내밀었더니 형수님이 형 위에 앉아 있었다. 물론 나를 등지고 있었지만 등 라인을 감탄할 수밖에 없었다. 순간 입이 바싹 마르고 아랫배에 열기가 올라왔다. 하지만 이렇게 매력적인 형수님 앞에서 형은 영 맥을 못 췄다. “태연아, 나 여전히 안 되는데.” 그 말에 형수가 버럭 화를 냈다. “약도 없네, 정말. 이제 고작 서른다섯이면서 왜 이렇게 쓸모가 없어? 안 서면 싸기라도 해야 할 거 아니야. 아무것도 없으면 애는 어떻게 가져? 계속 이러면 나 다른 사람 만난다? 당신은 애 싫을지 몰라도 나는 엄마가 되고 싶다고.” 잔뜩 화가 난 형수가 바지를 입고는 수풀 밖으로 걸어 나오자 놀란 나는 헐레벌떡 도망쳤다. 집에 돌아온 지 얼마 지나지 않아 형수가 돌아오는 소리가 들렸다. ‘쾅’ 닫히는 문소리에 내 가슴도 ‘철렁’ 내려앉았다. ‘깜짝 놀랐네. 형과 형수님 사이가 이렇게 안 좋을 줄이야.’ 나는 속으로 중얼거리며 가슴을 쓸어내렸다. 여자는 나이가 들수록 욕구가 많아진다더니 형수님도 욕구 불만인 게 틀림없었다. ‘하긴, 형처럼 비실비실한 몸으로 형수님을 어떻게 만족시키겠어? 나 정도는 돼야지.’ ‘퉤퉤퉤! 내가 지금 무슨 생각을 하는 거야? 고태연은 내 형수님이라고 어떻게 이런 생각을 할 수 있어?’ 물론 내가 진동성과 친형제는 아니지만 친형제 못지않게 끈끈한 사이다. 형이 아니었으면 내가 대학도 갈 수 없었을 거고. 내가 이런저런 생각에 잠겨 있을 때, 옆방에서 낮은 신음소리가 들려왔다. 얼른 귀를 벽에 대고 엿들어 봤더니 이건 틀림없이 신음이었다. ‘형수가 지금...’ 생각할수록 몸이 달아올라 도저히 참을 수 없어 나도 결국 바지 버클을 내렸다. 잠시 뒤, 벽 하나를 사이 두고 나와 형수의 신음 소리가 한데 섞였다. 영혼이 이어진 듯한 느낌에 나도 모르게 온갖 생각이 들었다. 형수가 나와 만났다면 얼마나 좋을까 하는 생각이 들어났다. 하지만 이건 절대 불가능한 일이다. 형수와 나 사이에는 영원히 넘을 수 없는 형이라는 존재가 있으니. 형한테 미안한 일은 할 수 없다. 더러워진 속옷을 대충 화장실에 두고 나는 내일 씻자는 생각으로 잠이 들었다. 이튿날, 잠에서 깨었을 때 시간은 벌써 9시가 넘었다. 형은 이미 출근했고 집에는 나와 형수 둘뿐이었다. 아침을 하는 형수는 실크로 된 나시 슬립을 입은 채로 굴곡진 몸매를 드러냈다. 특히 풍만한 가슴을 본 순간 입이 바싹 말랐다. “수호 씨, 일어났어요? 얼른 씻고 밥 먹어요.” 형수는 나를 보자마자 먼저 인사를 건넸다. 내가 이곳에 온 지는 아직 며칠 되지 않기에 형수와 아직 친해지지 못하여 많이 어색했다. 이에 나는 짤막하게 대답하고 곧장 화장실로 향했다. 그렇게 한창 씻던 그때, 갑자기 어제 벗어두었던 속옷이 내 뇌리를 스쳤다. ‘형수가 나보다 일찍 깨어났는데 설마 본 건 아니겠지?’ 이런 생각을 하며 재빨리 확인한 나는 그대로 얼어붙고 말았다. 속옷이 사라졌다. 내가 이곳저곳 찾고 있을 때 갑자기 뒤에서 형수의 목소리가 들려왔다. “찾을 필요 없어요. 이미 씻었으니까.” 순간 가슴이 철렁했다. ‘그 속옷에 내 정액이 가득 묻어 있는데, 형수가 씻었다면 봤을 거잖아!’ 이건 너무 부끄러웠다. 그런데 형수는 팔짱을 낀 채 눈웃음을 치며 아무렇지 않은 듯 나를 봤다. “수호 씨, 혹시 어제 무슨 소리 들었어요?” 나는 고개를 절레절레 흔들며 어제 형수의 소리를 들었다는 걸 극구 부인했다. “아니요, 아무것도 못 들었어요.” “그래요? 내 방에서 이상한 소리 듣지 못했어요?” ‘이건 나를 시험하는 건가?’ “저 어제 10시쯤에 잠들어서 아무것도 못 들었어요.” 이 말을 끝으로 나는 도망치듯 그 자리를 벗어났다. 왠지 모르겠지만 형수의 심문에 가슴이 콕콕 찔렸고 눈은 저도 모르게 형수의 가슴으로 향했다. 분명 마가 낀 게 틀림없다. 나는 곧장 식탁 앞에 앉아 묵묵히 음식을 먹었다. 하지만 밥이 코로 넘어가는지 입으로 넘어가는지 모르겠다. 그도 그럴 게, 형수가 이내 걸어와 하필이면 내 옆에 앉았기 때문이다. 왜 이러는지 이해가 되지 않는다. 예전에는 분명 내 맞은편에 앉았는데, 오늘은 왜 내 옆에 앉는지. 내가 이런저런 생각에 잠겨 있을 때, 형수가 갑자기 손가락으로 내 팔뚝을 쿡쿡 찔렀다. 순간 온몸이 감전되는 듯 찌릿해 났다. ‘여자가 내 몸을 만지는 게 이런 기분이구나.’ 신기한 기분이었다. “수호 씨, 혹시 내가 무서워요?” “아니요. 그냥 조금 어색해서요.” “사람은 원래 어색하다가 점점 익숙해지는 거 아니겠어요? 어색하니까 더 많이 교류해야죠. 그래야 얼른 친해지죠. 수호 씨, 남자와 여자가 가장 빨리 친해지는 방법이 뭔지 알아요?” 내 착각인지 모르겠으나 형수는 분명 나에게 암시하는 것 같았다. 그걸 인식하니 너무 당황해 밥이 넘어가지 않았다. 설렘 반 긴장 반인 심정으로 형수의 말에 담긴 의미를 생각하다가 끝내 용기를 내 질문했다. “뭔데요?” “아이 만드는 거요.” 형수는 맑은 두 눈으로 나를 바라보며 아주 직설적으로 말했다. 그 순간 나는 사레가 걸렸다. 형수가 왜 이런 말을 하는지 이해가 되지 않았다. 내가 형수와 뭘 할 수 있다고. ‘설마 나를 노리나?’ ‘형이 안 되니까 나한테 희망을 품은 건가?’ ‘안돼, 난 절대 형한테 미안한 일 할 수 없어.’ 나는 다급히 의자를 들고 옆으로 물러났다. “형수, 농담하지 마세요. 누가 보면 오해해요.” 형수는 나를 보며 피식 웃더니 곧장 질문했다. “그럼 솔직히 말해봐요. 어제 무슨 소리 들었어요? 솔직히 말하지 않으면 깊은 대화를 해봐야 할 것 같은데요.” ‘헉, 절대 그럴 수 없어.’ 나는 놀란 가슴을 다독이며 결국 입을 열었다. “형수님, 저 확실히 무슨 소리 들었어요. 하지만 고의는 아니었어요.” “혹시 내 신음 소리였어요? 듣기 좋던가요?” 형수님이 이렇게 노골적인 질문을 할 거라고는 생각지도 못했다. 얼굴은 화끈 달아올랐고, 가슴은 요란하게 북을 쳐 어떻게 대답해야 할지 갈피를 잡지 못했다. 그러던 그때. 마침 밖에서 노크 소리가 들려오자 나는 지푸라기라도 잡는 심정으로 얼른 달려가 문 쪽으로 달려갔다. 그리고 문을 열었더니 밖에는 늘씬한 여자 한 명이 서 있었다. 얼굴은 예쁘장한 데다, 나올 데 나오고 들어갈 데 들어가 연예인 못지않았다. 여자는 나를 보자 눈을 크게 뜨며 물었다. “그쪽은 누구죠?” 그 말에 나는 어이가 없었다. “그러는 그쪽은 누군데요?” 제2화 “애교야, 왔어? 얼른 들어와.” 내가 한참 답답해하고 있을 때, 형수가 다가와 낯선 여자를 친절하게 맞이했다. 여자는 형수의 초대로 곧장 집 안에 들어섰다. 그러자 형수가 우리를 소개했다. 여자는 형수의 친한 친구인데, 이름은 이애교, 바로 옆집에 살고 있었다. “애교야, 이 사람은 동성 씨와 같은 마을에 살던 동생이야, 정수호라고, 어제 왔어.” 애교라는 여자는 이상한 눈으로 나를 보더니 이내 빙그레 웃었다. “동성 씨한테 이렇게 어리고 잘생긴 동생이 다 있었어?” “수호 씨 이제 막 대학 졸업했어. 그러니 당연히 젊지. 젊을 뿐만 아니라 엄청 튼실해.” 내 착각일지 모르겠으나 형수의 마지막 한마디는 무척 의미심장했다. 심지어 눈길마저 내 아래를 흘끗거렸다. 그 동작에 나는 더 불편해졌다. 그때, 애교 누나가 나를 위아래로 훑더니 물었다. “태연아, 네가 말했던 마사지사가 설마 이 사람이야?” “맞아. 수호 씨가 어릴 때부터 할아버지한테 마사지를 배웠대. 솜씨가 엄청 좋아.” 형수는 말을 마치자마자 나를 봤다. “아까 미처 말하지 못했는데, 사실 내 친구가 허리와 척추가 아프다고 해서요. 가끔 가슴도 답답하대요. 원래는 한의사를 불러 마사지 좀 받게 하려고 했는데, 수호 씨가 마침 마사지할 줄 알잖아요. 그래서 한번 받아보게 하려고요.” ‘그런 거였군.’ 나는 단번에 승낙했다. ‘형과 형수가 나를 이곳에서 머물게 해주고 일자리도 알아봐 줬는데, 이런 일 정도야 당연히 도와야지.’ 그때, 애교 누나가 부끄러운지 형수를 옆으로 끌고 갔다. “이건 좀 아니지 않나? 너무 젊은데?” “젊은 게 뭐 어때서? 젊을수록 좋은 거 아니야? 젊어야 힘이 좋고, 그래야 너 같은 유부녀를 편하게 모실 수 있잖아.” “무슨 헛소리하는 거야. 나 그런 사람 아니거든.” 애교 누나는 얼굴을 붉혔다. 그러자 형수가 싱긋 웃으며 대답했다. “농담이야. 네가 그쪽으로 생각하니까 그렇지. 솔직히 말해봐, 네 남편 반년 동안 집에 안 왔는데, 그동안 하고 싶지 않았어?” “너 계속 이러면 나 간다?” 그때, 형수가 귀까지 빨개진 애교 누나의 팔짱을 끼며 말했다. “알았어. 안 놀릴게. 너는 점잖고 우아한 귀부인이야. 됐지? 그런데 우리 수호 씨 솜씨 엄청 좋아. 한번 해봐. 젊고 잘생긴 남자가 밖에 있는 늙은 영감보다야 낫지 않겠어?” 애교 누나는 형수의 말에 일리가 있다고 생각했는지 고개를 끄덕였다. “그럼 옆에 있어 줘. 안 그러면 어색할 것 같아.” “그래, 같이 있어 줄게.” 두 사람은 한참 동안 소곤거리더니 그제야 내 앞으로 다가왔다. 애교 누나가 형수더러 먼저 시범 보여달라고 하자 형수는 군말 없이 소파에 엎드렸다. “수호 씨, 시작해요.” 나는 의자를 가져와 형수님 옆에 앉아 마사지를 하기 시작했다. 콜라병 몸매를 소유한 형수의 엉덩이는 동그랗고 볼록해 나는 저도 모르게 때리고 싶다는 생각이 들었다. “태연, 어때? 시원해?” 애교 누나가 물었다. “당연하지, 이렇게 시원하기는 오랜만이야.” 형수의 낮은 신음소리에 나와 애교 누나는 얼굴이 화끈 달아올랐다. 심지어 아래가 터질 것 같아 괴로워하고 있을 때, 애교 누나도 부자연스럽게 다리를 꽉 모았다. “됐어, 애교야. 이제 네 차례야.” 형수는 소파에서 일어나 우리에게 물을 따라주자, 애교 누나는 부끄러워하면서 소파에 눕더니 다리에 담요를 덮었다. ‘쯧, 예쁜 다리를 가리다니, 아쉽네.’ 하지만 아무리 덮는다고 해도 완벽한 몸매를 가릴 수는 없었다. 애교 누나는 마른 체형이지만 나올 데 나오고 들어갈 데 들어간 데다 얼굴까지 동안이라 눈길을 더 끌었다. 그때 내가 손을 어깨에 대자 애교 누나의 몸이 뻣뻣하게 굳었다. ‘형수님은 형수님이라 뭘 할 수 없다지만, 형수님 친구는 괜찮잖아? 게다가 남편이 오랫동안 집을 비웠다고 했으니 엄청 외로울 거야.’ “애교 누나, 시원해요?” “응.” 내 물음에 애교 누나는 부끄러운 듯 낮게 대답했다. 그 대답을 들으니 나는 더욱 대담해졌다. “더 시원하게 해줄게요.” 나는 애교 누나의 등을 타고 두 손을 점점 아래로 움직였다. 그러자 애교 누나가 몸을 부르르 떨었다. “지금 뭐 하는 거예요?” “허리 시큰거린다면서요? 허리 좀 주물러 주려고요.” 살짝 겁을 먹은 채 말했더니 애교 누나는 아무 말도 하지 않았다. 묵인을 얻자 내 손은 다시 애교 누나의 허리 위로 올라가 꾹꾹 누르기 시작했다. 애교 누나의 허리는 매우 가늘어 한 손에 잡힐 정도였다. 하지만 엉덩이는 그에 비해 크고 통통한 애플힙이었다. “사실 누나의 어깨는 크게 문제없어요. 하지만 허리에 문제가 많아요.” “네? 허리가 왜요?” 나는 불안한 듯 묻는 애교 누나의 허리를 누르며 말했다. “신장이 약해요. 신장이 약하면 이렇게 허리가 아프거든요.” “신장은 보통 남자한테 중요한 거잖아요. 나는 여자라서 크게 상관없는 거 아니에요?” “그건 오해예요. 남자든 여자든 신장이 두 개인 건 똑같잖아요. 보통 신장하면 남성 기능 쪽으로 생각하는데, 여자도 기혈이 부족하면 신장이 약할 수 있어요. 누나가 얼굴색이 창백한 것도 기혈이 부족해서 그래요. 이걸 장기적으로 방치하면 다른 문제가 생기거든요.” “그럼 어떡해요?” 애교 누나가 무의식적으로 묻자 나는 씩 입꼬리를 올렸다. “사실 지금은 그렇게 심각한 게 아니라 한동안 이렇게 마사지 받으면 나을 수 있어요.” “그럼 얼른 마사지해 줘요.” “그럼 시작해요.” 나는 애교 누나의 허리를 따라 아래로 손을 내렸다. 그 순간 애교 누나의 몸이 뻣뻣하게 굳었다. 하지만 아무 말도 하지 않자 나는 더 대담하게 행동했다. 내 손은 애교 누나의 엉덩이를 스치며 다리를 덮고 있던 담요를 천천히 걷어냈다. 백옥처럼 새하얀 다리는 역시나 예술이었다. 나는 손을 점점 아래로 내려 애교 누나의 발을 쥐고 발바닥 혈 자리를 꾹꾹 눌렀다. 그러자 애교 누나는 참지 못하고 신음을 내더니 부끄러웠는지 얼굴이 새빨개졌다. “괜찮아요?” 애교 누나는 가쁜 호흡을 가다듬으며 대답했다. “괜찮아요, 계속해요.” 그 말에 나는 계속해서 애교 누나의 발바닥을 눌렀다. 그러다 참지 못하고 애교 누나의 치마 속을 훔쳐봤는데 아쉽게도 다리를 너무 꽉 모으고 있는 탓에 아무것도 볼 수 없었다. 그렇게 한참 동안 누르다가 나는 만족스럽지 않아 대담하게 요구했다. “애교 누나, 혹시 평소에 가슴이 답답하지 않아요? 내가 마사지해 줄게요.” 나는 말하면서 무의식적으로 애교 누나의 가슴을 슬쩍 스쳐봤다. ‘저기를 누를 수 있다면 얼마나 좋을까?’ 거절당할까 봐 걱정했던 것도 무색하게, 애교 누나는 바로 동의했다. “뭐, 그래요.” 순간 너무 흥분한 나머지 나는 의자를 소파 쪽으로 더 바싹 붙이며 말했다. “누나, 반듯하게 누워요. 그래야 마사지할 수 있으니까?” 애교 누나는 고분고분 뒤돌아 소파 위에 반듯하게 누웠다. 애교 누나의 가슴은 형수님 것보다 작았지만 봉긋하게 솟았다. 한 번도 여자 가슴을 만져 본 적 없어 잔뜩 긴장한 채로 손을 뻗으려는 그때, 갑자기 형수의 목소리가 들려왔다. “어머, 두 사람 진도 빠르네.” 제3화 나는 마치 나쁜 짓을 한 어린애처럼 벌떡 일어났다. “형수님, 형수님이 여긴 어쩐 일이에요?” 애교 누나도 잘못을 저지른 것처럼 벌떡 자리에서 일어났다. 심지어 양 볼은 어느새 사과처럼 빨갛게 무르익었다. “태연아, 그런 거 아니야. 나랑 수호 씨 아무 일도 없었어. 그냥 가슴이 답답해서 마사지해 준 것뿐이야.” 애교 누나가 구구절절 설명하자 형수가 피식 웃었다. “내가 뭐라고 한 것도 아닌데, 왜 그렇게 긴장해? 아니면 나 몰래 정말 나쁜 짓이라도 했어?” 나와 애교 누나는 동시에 고개를 저었다. 그와 동시에 당혹스러웠다. ‘내가 감히 형수님 친구를 어떻게 하려 하다니, 만약 형수님이 알면 분명 쫓아낼 거야.’ 그때 애교 누나가 안절부절못하더니 일이 있다는 핑계로 서둘러 집을 나갔다. 형수는 그런 애교 누나의 뒷모습을 보며 멍해 있다가 한참 뒤에 나를 보며 물었다. “수호 씨, 내 친구 어떻게 같아요?” “네?” 형수한테서 갑자기 이런 질문을 받으니 나는 마음이 혼란스러워 말까지 더듬었다. “좋죠. 예쁘고 몸매도 좋고 성격도 좋잖아요.” “그럼 내 친구 꼬시라고 하면 그럴 의향 있어요?” 형수의 말에 나는 놀라움을 감출 수 없었다. 마음도 혼란스러워 무슨 말을 해야 할지 몰랐다. 문제는 형수가 방금 내가 형수 친구를 어떻게 해보려던 걸 발견하고 일부러 떠보는 것일까 봐 걱정되었다. 내가 긴장하고 있을 때, 형수가 내 팔을 잡으며 손등을 톡톡 두드렸다. “긴장할 거 없어요. 솔직히 말하면 돼요.” “형수님, 저 난처하게 하지 마세요. 애교 누나는 형수님 친구인데 제가 어떻게 감히 그런 마음을 품겠어요?” “감히라고요? 아래가 이렇게 단단해졌으면서.” 형수는 내 아래를 흘긋거리며 말했다. 순간 너무 쪽팔리고 난감해 나는 얼른 허리를 숙였다. “와, 사이즈 보통 아니네요.” 내 착각일지 모르겠으나 내 아래를 본 순간 형수의 눈빛이 변했다. 그때 형수가 말을 이었다. “나 농담 아니에요. 애교와 잠자리를 가져요. 형 도와주는 셈 치고.” ‘뭐지? 애교 누나와 자는 게 형과 무슨 상관이지?’ 형수는 나를 소파에 앉히더니 설명하기 시작했다. “동성 씨 회사와 애교의 남편이 현재 사업 파트너거든요. 애교 누나의 남편이 밖에 애인이 있는데 동성 씨한테 사람을 찾아 자기 아내 꼬셔달라고 부탁했대요. 그러면 빨리 이혼할 수 있으니까. 이제 알겠죠?” 나는 연신 고개를 끄덕였다. 알아들은 건 확실하나 이해가 되지 않았다. ‘애교 누나처럼 예쁜 여자를 두고 그 남편은 왜 바람피우는 거지?’ 내가 깊은 생각에 빠져 있을 때 형수가 내 허벅지를 꼬집었다. “무슨 생각을 그렇게 해요?” “아!” 너무 아파 저도 모르게 비명을 지르며 나는 연신 고개를 저었다. “아무것도 아니에요.” “내가 아침에 한 말 기억해요? 남자의 그건 정확한 곳에 써야 해요. 애교 누나의 남편이 반년 동안 애교 누나한테 손끝 하나 대지 않았대요. 그러니까 수호 씨가 조금만 손쓰면 바로 넘어올 거예요. 여자와 자본 적 없죠? 이번이 기회예요.” 형수의 말을 들을수록 나는 얼굴이 빨갛게 달아올랐고, 아랫배에 열기가 몰렸다. 문제는 너무 부끄러우면서도 난감한 부탁이라는 거다. 만약 다른 사람의 부탁이라면 그나마 괜찮았을 텐데. 형수는 내가 꿈쩍도 하지 않자 갑자기 옆으로 바싹 다가왔다. 그 순간 은은한 향기가 내 코끝을 간지럽혔다. 전에 한 번도 형수와 이렇게 가까이 앉은 적 없는데, 지금은 심지어 형수의 온도까지 느껴질 정도라 가슴이 콩닥거리는 한편 긴장했다. “혹시 무서워요? 걱정돼요?” 조심스럽게 묻는 형수의 말에 나는 필사적으로 고개를 끄덕였다. 이건 무서운 정도가 아니라 아주 겁이 나 미칠 지경이다. 여자 친구도 사귀어 본 적 없는 나더러 유부녀를 꼬시라니. 무섭지 않을 리가. 그때 형수가 다시 한번 내 손을 잡으며 한 번도 들은 적 없는 부드러운 목소리로 말했다. “걱정할 거 없어요. 상대는 외로운 유부녀라 마음껏 꼬셔도 돼요. 유부녀를 꼬시는 가장 효과적인 방법이 바로 성욕을 자극하는 거예요.” “성욕이 한번 끓어오르면 끝이 없거든요. 그때가 되면 수호 씨는 아무것도 안 해도 모든 일이 풀릴 거예요. 알았어요?” 나는 건성으로 고개를 끄덕였지만 생각은 이미 다른 데로 날아가 버렸다. 머릿속에는 아침에 들은 장면이 떠올랐고, 형수님의 가슴이 얼마나 매혹적일지 상상했다. 그런데 하필이면 형수가 그걸 보고 말았다. “나 커요?” 갑작스러운 형수의 물음에 나는 바짝 긴장했고, 입이 바싹 말라 넋을 잃은 듯 대답했다. “네.” “만지고 싶어요?” 순간 피가 거꾸로 솟는 기분이 들었고 머리가 윙윙 울려 아무 말도 할 수 없었다. 그때, 형수가 내 쪽으로 갑자기 바싹 다가와 가슴을 내 몸에 눌렀다. 그 순간, 나는 바보라도 된 것처럼 머리가 온통 백지장이 되어버렸다. “그러고 싶으면 싶은 거죠. 민망해할 거 뭐 있어요? 이건 인간의 본능적인 욕구예요. 풀 때는 풀어야 한다고요.” 결국 나는 참지 못하고 이를 악물었다. “만지고 싶어요. 그것도 아주 많아.” “하하하, 잘했어요. 마음이 시키는 대로 해 봐요. 그럼 무서울 거 없잖아요. 하지만 그 욕구는 애교 누나한테 풀어요. 형수인 내가 아니라. 알겠어요?” 순간 기분이 나락으로 떨어졌다. ‘난 또 형수님이 나한테 몸 바치려 하는 줄 알았는데 어떻게 대담해지는지 가르쳐주는 거였잖아.’ ‘하지만 오히려 좋아. 내가 만약 형수와 무슨 일이라도 생기면 형한테 미안해서 어떡해?’ 나는 더 이상 참을 수 없어 배가 아프다는 핑계를 대고 얼른 화장실로 달려갔다. 방금 애교 누나를 도와 마사지할 때부터 참기 힘들었는데, 형수가 나를 건드리기까지 하니 아래가 터질 것만 같았다. 물론 형수가 손장난도 적당히 하면 몸에 좋고 지나치면 몸이 상한다고 했지만, 이 순간 더 이상 참을 수 없었다. 하지만 뜻밖에도 목욕 타월을 올려놓는 선반 위에서 여자 팬티 한 장을 발견했다. 깊이 생각하지 않아도 알 수 있었다. 이 팬티의 주인이 형수라는 걸. 그 순간 그 팬티를 가져야 할지 말아야 할지 수없이 고민했다. 이내 눈을 감고 마음을 진정하려고 했으나, 하필이면 머릿속에 아침에 봤던 장면이 떠올랐다. 심지어 마음속에서 악마의 속삭임이 나를 유혹했다. ‘손장난하는 것뿐인데, 그건 괜찮잖아. 이건 쉽게 얻을 수 없는 기회라고, 놓치면 앞으로는 기회도 없어.’ 결국 나는 그 속삭임에 넘어가 저도 모르게 팬티를 향해 손을 뻗었다. 제4화 팬티는 부드럽고 나른한 데다 심지어 형수의 냄새까지 배어 있었다. 손에 감각이 느껴지자 저도 모르게 아침에 몰래 엿들었던 소리가 뇌리에 재생되며 점차 흥분되었다. ‘형수와 뭘 진짜로 할 수는 없지만 팬티로 상상하는 건 괜찮잖아.’ 나는 속으로 이렇게 중얼거리며 벨트를 풀고 팬티를 밀어 넣었다. 하지만 내 손이 아래에 닿으려 할 때 노크 소리가 들렸고, 너무 놀란 나머지 나는 그대로 뿜을 뻔했다. ‘집에 나와 형수님 둘뿐이니 노크한 사람은 형수님이겠지?’ 나는 서둘러 그 팬티를 꺼내 목욕 타월 선반 위에 올려다 놓고 나서 조심스럽게 말했다. “형수님, 왜 그러세요?” “수호 씨, 안에서 무슨 나쁜 짓 했어요?” ‘이런 말을 묻는다고?’ “네? 아, 아니요.” 나는 찔려서 말을 더듬었다. “그런데 왜 그렇게 떨어요?” 형수의 한마디에 나는 가슴이 철렁해 식은땀을 줄줄 흘렸다. ‘형수가 아무리 개방적이라고 해도 본인과 나는 안 된다고 명확히 말했는데, 만약 내가 형수의 팬티를 가지고 그런 짓을 한 걸 들키면 내가 본인 말을 안 듣는다고 생각해 쫓아내면 어떡하지?’ 하지만 이 상황을 어떻게 설명해야 할지 몰라 나는 애써 설명했다. “정말 아무것도 아니에요. 배가 아파서 식은땀이 난 것뿐이에요.” “갑자기 식은땀이 왜 나요? 혹시 어디 아파요?” 형수는 이내 나를 걱정했다. “저도 모르겠어요. 그냥 좀 불편해요.” “문 좀 열어봐요. 어디 봐봐요.” “이, 이제 괜찮아요.” “내외할 거 뭐 있어요? 수호 씨 내 눈에는 아직 애예요. 그러니 얼른 문 열어요.” 그 말을 들은 순간 실망감이 휘몰아쳤다. ‘내가 형수님 눈에 고작 애였다니. 어쩐지 내 앞에서 거침없더라니. 나는 그런 상대로 한 번도 생각하지 않았나 보네.’ 나는 허리를 숙여 화장실 문을 열었다. 형수는 들어오자마자 나를 보는 게 아니라 목욕 타월을 놓은 선반 위를 확인했다. 나는 마음이 찔려 형수의 눈을 마주칠 수 없었다. 그때 형수가 선반 쪽으로 걸어가더니 나한테 웃으며 물었다. “혹시 내 팬티 건드렸어요?” “아, 아니요.” 나는 다급하게 고개를 흔들었다. “정말이에요? 그런데 얼굴은 왜 그렇게 빨개요? 솔직히 말해요. 방금 내 팬티로 나쁜 짓 하려고 했는데 내가 방해한 거죠? 그래서 내가 들어오는 걸 무서워했던 거고?” ‘뭐야? 천리안이라도 지녔나? 어떻게 저렇게 귀신같이 다 알지?’ 형수는 나를 위아래로 훑더니 내가 허리를 구부린 채 일어나지 못하자 의심의 눈초리로 바라봤다. “똑바로 서요.” 형수는 나를 지그시 바라보며 말했다. 그런 형수의 명을 나는 어길 수 없었다. 하지만 내가 몸을 곧게 편 순간 난감한 상태인 것이 바로 들켜버렸다. 형수도 그걸 본 게 틀림없다. 나는 눈을 감고 형수의 눈을 피했다. 하지만 형수가 천천히 내 앞에 무릎을 꿇는 게 고스란히 느껴졌다. 그 순간 가슴이 튀어나올 것만 같았다. 문제는 형수가 뭘 하려는지 몰라 도저히 모르겠다는 거였다. 너무 야릇한 자세에 나는 저도 모르게 이런저런 상상을 하며 천천히 눈을 떴다. 그랬더니 형수가 멍하니 내 그곳을 바라보며 감탄하는 게 아니겠는가? “동성 씨가 수호 씨처럼 이랬으면 얼마나 좋을까요?” 동경이 가득한 형수의 눈빛에 내 머리는 순간 백지장이 되어버렸고, 가슴은 미친 듯이 요동쳐 무슨 말을 해야 할지 몰랐다. 그런데 형수는 그곳을 한참 바라보더니 다시 일어났다. 나는 얼른 손으로 그곳을 막았다. “아직은 욕구를 풀지 마요. 그래야 애교 누나를 공략할 동력이 생기죠.” 형수는 말하면서 갑자기 나에게 바싹 다가왔다. “사실 나 일부러 이러는 거예요. 이러면 안 되는 거 아는데 동성 씨를 위해서 어쩔 수 없어요. 수호 씨가 너무 부끄럼을 타니까 우선 생각을 오픈해야죠. 손 치워요. 나도 산전수전 겪은 사람인데, 이런 걸 못 겪어봤을까요?” ‘그래도 이 방법은 너무 남다른 거 아닌가? 목숨이 남아나질 않는다고.’ 나는 속으로 아우성쳤다. “나와요. 애교한테 전화할 거니까 같이 쇼핑하면서 두 사람 이어줄게요. 오늘 애교가 수호 씨를 집에 초대할지 기대되네요. 얼른 해결해야 수호 씨 형네 회사도 얼른 제자리 찾을 수 있을 거예요.” 형수는 말을 마치자마자 허리를 흔들며 밖으로 나가 버렸다. 홀로 남겨진 나 역시 그제야 화장실에서 느릿느릿 걸어 나왔지만, 손은 온통 땀으로 젖었다. 너무 참고 있었던 탓이었다. 형수한테 매번 이런 식으로 자극당하고 제대로 풀 수 없으니 미칠 것만 같았다. 하지만 형을 위해서 참을 수밖에 없다. 형수는 소파에 앉아 애교 누나에게 전화했다. “안 나가겠다고? 왜? 안돼, 나랑 나가자. 안 나가면 수호 씨더러 너 안아서 내려오라고 한다?” “뭐? 내가 너무하다고? 그래, 나 원래 이래. 어떡할 건데?” “그래, 그럼 약속한 거다? 5분 뒷문 앞에서 기다릴게.” 형수는 전화를 끊자 나를 향해 웃으며 말했다. “해결했어요. 가서 옷 갈아입어요. 이따가 운전해야 하니까. 기억해요, 자꾸 뒤쪽을 봐야 해요, 서프라이즈가 있을 테니까.” “네.” 나는 짤막하게 대답하고 곧바로 옷 갈아입으러 갔다. 그러면서 내심 형수가 말한 서프라이즈가 뭘까 기대했다. 내가 이내 옷을 갈아입고 형수와 함께 문 앞에서 기다렸다. 그랬더니 얼마 지나지 않아 애교 누나가 나왔다. 붉은 원피스는 애교 누나의 하얀 피부를 더 희게 만들었고, V넥이라 가슴골이 훤히 드러났다. 그걸 본 순간 나는 넋을 잃고 말았다. ‘애교 누나의 몸매가 좋을 줄은 알았지만 이 정도일 줄이야.’ 애교 누나는 일부러 내 눈을 피하며 형수의 팔짱을 끼더니 내 앞으로 지나갔다. 그런 반응에 나는 답답하고 속상했다. 아까 마사지할 때만 해도 분명 살갑게 대했는데, 왜 갑자기 이렇게 차가워졌는지. 심지어 내 눈도 안 마주치고 있다. ‘설마 내가 너무 무례해서 화났나?’ 우리는 곧장 계단을 내려갔다. 그 사이 애교 누나는 형수와 웃고 떠들었지만 나는 혼자 꿔다 놓은 보따리처럼 옆에 덩그러니 서 있었다. 그게 너무 답답하고 괴로웠지만 차에 타자마자 갑자기 뒤를 돌아보면 서프라이즈가 있을 거라던 형수의 말이 떠올랐다. 그 서프라이즈가 무엇인지 궁금하여 나는 계속 백미러로 뒤를 힐끔거렸다. 하지만 형수는 애교 누나와 웃고 떠들기만 할 뿐, 기대했던 서프라이즈는 없었다. “형수님, 우리 어디 가요?” 길을 물어본다는 걸 핑계 삼아 또 한 번 뒤돌아봤지만 여전히 서프라이즈는 없었다. 하지만 애교 누나와 눈빛이 마주친 순간, 애교 누나의 얼굴이 빨갛게 달아오르더니 이내 시선을 피했다. 그건 당황하고 초조해하는 눈빛이 틀림없었다. 그 순간 내 가슴은 철렁 내려앉았다. 애교 누나는 지금 화나 있는 게 아니라 나와 썸을 이어갈지 고민하는 거였다. 그걸 인지하자 나는 기쁨을 주체할 수 없었다. 그건 애교 누나도 나한테 마음이 있다는 뜻이었으니. “광화문 광장으로 가요.” “네.” 형수의 말에 나는 짤막하게 대답했다. 그러고는 곧장 핸드폰을 꺼내 길을 검색하고는 시동을 걸었다. 차가 정체 구간에 이르자 좀처럼 속도가 나지 않아 나는 다시 뒤를 흘끔거렸다. 그리고 그 순간 애교 누나가 팬티를 내리는 모습을 봐버렸다.		남성 소설 모음		124	https://www.facebook.com/61560317043692/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683889	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/30/25, 9:13 PM	1739147231	1746065619		2524																										weihunyu.com	Learn more			VIDEO	더 많은 무료 챕터를 읽어보세요👉		https://weihunyu.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11315&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}			2.8305355155039E+14	소설의 세계	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/472818460_1350514196129861_6012695163020631545_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=34eatrfk0uoQ7kNvgHYB2WP&_nc_oc=AdiXdGsi8JzqFB1mNvlqGC5GNBtm_627li2LNnbkGKBXOVza-8o6F8rTJrLI0c21LUqtAwquRAuQezVlOU-AlNw-&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYA5ENklKKPeFHZmehbDO7eau-_sxtdgTcPLeMXdC482Iw&oe=67AF285D	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		온지유는 결혼 3년 만에 드디어 술에 취한 남편 여이현과 잠자리를 가졌지만, 그는 첫사랑의 이름을 불렀다. 이튿날 잠에서 깬 남자는 아무것도 기억하지 못했고 지유에게 이렇게 말했다. “어젯밤 그 여자 당장 찾아내!”... 지유는 스위트룸 문가에 서서 안에서 들려오는 낮은 호통 소리를 들었다. “꺼져!” 그 소리 뒤에는 무언가 깨지는 소리가 이어졌다. 지유는 깊이 숨을 들이쉬고 스위트룸 안으로 들어갔다. 스위트룸 안은 엉망이었고, 이현은 침대에 앉아 음울한 표정을 짓고 있었다. 그는 매력적이었지만, 잘생긴 얼굴은 어둡게 물들어 분노의 가장자리에 있었다. 지유가 불러온 여자는 놀라서 아무것도 못 했다. 그녀는 벌거벗은 채 어디에 서 있어야 할지 몰라 했고 뭔가 켕기는 듯한 눈치였다. 그래, 지유가 이 여자를 여기 부른 것이다. 지유는 두 사람이 어젯밤 잠자리를 가졌다는 사실을 이현이 아는 게 싫었다. 그들 사이에 계약에 의하면 아무도 모르게 3년간 결혼을 유지하면 바로 이혼할 수 있었다. 지유는 7년째 이현의 비서로, 3년째 이현의 와이프로 있었다. 이현은 지유에게 두 사람은 그저 상사와 부하의 관계일 뿐 이 관계를 뛰어넘어서는 안 된다고 경고했었다. 지유가 다가서며 말했다. “대표님, 9시 반에 회의가 하나 잡혀 있습니다. 지금 일어나시면 됩니다.” 이현은 차가운 눈동자로 앞에 서 있는 여자를 뚫어져라 쳐다봤다. 상황이 이해가 되지 않는 듯한 눈치였다. 지유는 이를 눈치채고 여자를 향해 말했다. “먼저 가봐요.” 여자는 그제야 한시름 놓은 듯 옷을 들고 급히 나갔다. 이현은 여전히 엄숙한 얼굴로 지유에게 냉랭하게 물었다. “어젯밤 어디 있었어?” 지유는 순간 멈칫했다. 그가 자신을 의심하고 있는 걸까? 지유는 약간 긴장하며 말했다. “요즘 프로젝트가 너무 힘들어서 사무실에서 잠들었어요.” 말이 끝나자마자 이현은 냉소를 흘렸다. 그의 얼굴은 차갑게 변했고, 침대에서 일어나 샤워 타올로 몸을 감쌌다. 지유는 그의 뒷모습을 보며 눈이 살짝 촉촉해졌다. 이현은 지유 앞에서 항상 꽁꽁 가리고 다녔다. 마치 지유가 그의 몸을 보는 게 역겹다는 것처럼 말이다. 하지만 어젯밤, 그가 침대에서 그녀를 안고 승아라고 생각했을 때는 완전히 달랐다. 지유는 오늘 아침 헤드라인을 장식한 뉴스 하나가 보였다. [신예 가수 노승아, 약혼자와 함께 귀국!] 지유는 그제야 이현이 왜 어젯밤 그렇게 술에 취해 그녀의 품에 안겨 울었는지 알게 되었다. 그는 그녀를 첫사랑의 대체품으로 여겼던 것이다. 지유는 가슴이 찢어지는 것 같았다. 지유가 정신을 차려보니 이현은 이미 샤워를 마치고 전신 거울 앞에 서 있었다. 지유가 그쪽으로 다가가 늘 그래왔듯 셔츠 단추를 채워줬다. 그는 그녀보다 훨씬 키가 컸기에, 그녀는 발끝을 세워 그의 목에 타이를 두르기 위해 손을 뻗어야 했다. 그렇게 열심히 이현의 넥타이를 묶어주고 있는데 이현의 뜨거운 숨결이 그녀의 귓가에 전해졌다. 이현은 갈라진 목소리로 이렇게 말했다. “지유야, 어젯밤 그 여자... 너 맞지?”		소설의 세계		724	https://www.facebook.com/61557428073507/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683891	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/14/25, 4:05 AM	1739147231	1749891907		2524																										operkn.com	Learn more			IMAGE	계속 읽으려면 클릭👉		https://operkn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11942&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}}			3.2362714083366E+14	남성 소설 모음	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476633032_1482861552670883_8188636338620100572_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aul2ItZf9ScQ7kNvgGuQpA3&_nc_oc=AdhEiNaLvMMib1s1dhNCcRPiw4KgFa3Zhzl4AxfVb0jNY-yeDnRNb1BDdRj-IsqdQw08wRuLG1zH3H1IJf1Jynwg&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYDJJFFgJljdJN-OOfW0vaKqUzvzOhBHdSAZbk8w70TTeg&oe=67AF0BF2	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		때는 밤 11시. 형님 집 아래에 있는 공원에서 야간 러닝을 하던 중, 풀숲 속에서 들려오는 남녀의 바스락 소리가 들려왔다. “진동성, 설마 안 되는 거야? 집에서는 느낌 안 산다고 해서 여기까지 왔더니, 왜 아직도 안 돼?” ‘저거 우리 형수님 목소리 아니야?’ 나는 그 소리를 듣자마자 여자가 내 형수님 고태연이라는 걸 알아버렸다. ‘형과 형수는 밥 먹으러 간다고 했는데? 왜 공원 풀숲에 있는 거지?’ 여자 친구는 한 번도 안 사귀어 봤지만 동영상은 그래도 많이 봤다고 자부하기에, 나는 곧바로 두 사람이 무슨 짓을 하는지 알아버렸다. ‘형과 형수님이 이런 스릴을 좋아할 줄은 몰랐네. 그것도 공원에서.’ 순간 몰래 엿듣고 싶다는 생각을 참을 수 없었다. 형수는 얼굴도 예쁘장한데 몸매는 더 끝내준다. 그런 형수의 신음소리라니 이건 꿈에 그리던 일이었다. 살금살금 수풀 쪽으로 걸어가 몰래 머리를 내밀었더니 형수님이 형 위에 앉아 있었다. 물론 나를 등지고 있었지만 등 라인을 감탄할 수밖에 없었다. 순간 입이 바싹 마르고 아랫배에 열기가 올라왔다. 하지만 이렇게 매력적인 형수님 앞에서 형은 영 맥을 못 췄다. “태연아, 나 여전히 안 되는데.” 그 말에 형수가 버럭 화를 냈다. “약도 없네, 정말. 이제 고작 서른다섯이면서 왜 이렇게 쓸모가 없어? 안 서면 싸기라도 해야 할 거 아니야. 아무것도 없으면 애는 어떻게 가져? 계속 이러면 나 다른 사람 만난다? 당신은 애 싫을지 몰라도 나는 엄마가 되고 싶다고.” 잔뜩 화가 난 형수가 바지를 입고는 수풀 밖으로 걸어 나오자 놀란 나는 헐레벌떡 도망쳤다. 집에 돌아온 지 얼마 지나지 않아 형수가 돌아오는 소리가 들렸다. ‘쾅’ 닫히는 문소리에 내 가슴도 ‘철렁’ 내려앉았다. ‘깜짝 놀랐네. 형과 형수님 사이가 이렇게 안 좋을 줄이야.’ 나는 속으로 중얼거리며 가슴을 쓸어내렸다. 여자는 나이가 들수록 욕구가 많아진다더니 형수님도 욕구 불만인 게 틀림없었다. ‘하긴, 형처럼 비실비실한 몸으로 형수님을 어떻게 만족시키겠어? 나 정도는 돼야지.’ ‘퉤퉤퉤! 내가 지금 무슨 생각을 하는 거야? 고태연은 내 형수님이라고 어떻게 이런 생각을 할 수 있어?’ 물론 내가 진동성과 친형제는 아니지만 친형제 못지않게 끈끈한 사이다. 형이 아니었으면 내가 대학도 갈 수 없었을 거고. 내가 이런저런 생각에 잠겨 있을 때, 옆방에서 낮은 신음소리가 들려왔다. 얼른 귀를 벽에 대고 엿들어 봤더니 이건 틀림없이 신음이었다. ‘형수가 지금...’ 생각할수록 몸이 달아올라 도저히 참을 수 없어 나도 결국 바지 버클을 내렸다. 잠시 뒤, 벽 하나를 사이 두고 나와 형수의 신음 소리가 한데 섞였다. 영혼이 이어진 듯한 느낌에 나도 모르게 온갖 생각이 들었다. 형수가 나와 만났다면 얼마나 좋을까 하는 생각이 들어났다. 하지만 이건 절대 불가능한 일이다. 형수와 나 사이에는 영원히 넘을 수 없는 형이라는 존재가 있으니. 형한테 미안한 일은 할 수 없다. 더러워진 속옷을 대충 화장실에 두고 나는 내일 씻자는 생각으로 잠이 들었다. 이튿날, 잠에서 깨었을 때 시간은 벌써 9시가 넘었다. 형은 이미 출근했고 집에는 나와 형수 둘뿐이었다. 아침을 하는 형수는 실크로 된 나시 슬립을 입은 채로 굴곡진 몸매를 드러냈다. 특히 풍만한 가슴을 본 순간 입이 바싹 말랐다. “수호 씨, 일어났어요? 얼른 씻고 밥 먹어요.” 형수는 나를 보자마자 먼저 인사를 건넸다. 내가 이곳에 온 지는 아직 며칠 되지 않기에 형수와 아직 친해지지 못하여 많이 어색했다. 이에 나는 짤막하게 대답하고 곧장 화장실로 향했다. 그렇게 한창 씻던 그때, 갑자기 어제 벗어두었던 속옷이 내 뇌리를 스쳤다. ‘형수가 나보다 일찍 깨어났는데 설마 본 건 아니겠지?’ 이런 생각을 하며 재빨리 확인한 나는 그대로 얼어붙고 말았다. 속옷이 사라졌다. 내가 이곳저곳 찾고 있을 때 갑자기 뒤에서 형수의 목소리가 들려왔다. “찾을 필요 없어요. 이미 씻었으니까.” 순간 가슴이 철렁했다. ‘그 속옷에 내 정액이 가득 묻어 있는데, 형수가 씻었다면 봤을 거잖아!’ 이건 너무 부끄러웠다. 그런데 형수는 팔짱을 낀 채 눈웃음을 치며 아무렇지 않은 듯 나를 봤다. “수호 씨, 혹시 어제 무슨 소리 들었어요?” 나는 고개를 절레절레 흔들며 어제 형수의 소리를 들었다는 걸 극구 부인했다. “아니요, 아무것도 못 들었어요.” “그래요? 내 방에서 이상한 소리 듣지 못했어요?”		남성 소설 모음		124	https://www.facebook.com/61560317043692/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683893	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	5/30/25, 5:10 PM	1739147231	1748643017		2524																										heplk.com	Learn more			IMAGE	ここをクリックして無料でお読みください！		https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&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}}			3.1105348876231E+14	女の子が読みたい小説を大特集	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474479004_593606150075416_336104421952671139_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=H7iocQwvyfAQ7kNvgGrMMHV&_nc_oc=Adg_1T3esW5usWNayfyqY3TOmTRWpcMzAoXNz-vII7OU78kHhSn6OkXIya5Yq_V-feCKjLgSM5YoPIMfArs8_KW_&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYAuExU1Txgffn88D0IvdU0BGR64KqiL2RyeBgMwN69lVg&oe=67AF169A	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		高橋優子が末期癌と診断されたその日、夫の佐藤峻介は、初恋の相手の子供の世話をしていた。 ... 病院で、中村悠斗が渋い顔で言った。「優子さん、手術が成功すれば、生存率は15%から30%になる。」 優子はかばんのひもを細い指でぎゅっと握りしめ、青ざめた小さな顔に深い陰りを浮かべていた。 「先輩、もし手術を受けなければ、どのくらい生きられるの？」 「半年から1年ぐらい。」 優子は唇をぎゅっと噛みしめ、やっと言葉を吐き出した。「先輩、このことは秘密にしてちょうだい。家族を心配させたくないの。」 高橋家はすでに破産しており、優子は父親の医療費を工面するだけでも精一杯だった。 悠斗は諦めたように言った。「口外しないよ。でも、結婚していると聞いた。旦那さん――」 「お父さんのことはお願いね。もう行かないと。」優子は夫の話題を避けるように、早々にその場を立ち去った。 父親の治療が始まってからの2年間、夫である佐藤峻介は一度も姿を見せたことがなかった。彼女が倒れて通行人に病院へ運ばれた時でさえもだ。 かつては彼も優子を大切にしていた。だが、初恋の相手である松本里美が妊娠した状態で帰国してから、すべてが変わった。 優子もかつて妊娠していたことがあった。ある日、湖で松本里美とともに落水した時、必死にもがきながら、彼が里美に向かって泳いでいく姿を見た。 後、里美は無事に子どもを産んだ。でも優子は母親になる機会を奪われた。 7日後、峻介は離婚を求めたが、彼女は拒否した。 だが、病気のことを知った今、彼女は震える手で彼の電話をかけた。 3回目のコールでつながると、彼の冷たい声が聞こえてきた。「離婚以外の用件なら、お前に会う気はない。」 優子は涙をこらえ、癌の話を切り出すことができなかった。すると電話の向こうから里美の声が聞こえてきた。「峻介君、そろそろ赤ちゃんの定期検査よ。」 その瞬間、こらえていた涙が一気に溢れ出した。すべてを終わらせる時が来たのだ。 優子はこ震える声で、絞り出すようにぽつりと呟いた。「峻介……もう、離婚しよう。」 峻介は一瞬、驚いたようだったが、冷笑して言った。「優子、今度はどんな手を使うつもりだ？」 「家で待ってるから。」 峻介は、電話が突然切られた後、呆然とスマホを見つめていた。 一年間拒否し続けてきた優子が、なぜ今急に同意したのだろう？ 彼女に会いに行くことを決めた。 「峻介、どこに行くのよ？」里美が子どもを抱えながら追いかけてきた。 しかし、彼は何も言わず立ち去った。その瞬間、里美の優しい表情はみるみるうちに恐ろしいほど暗くなった。 あの女……また何か仕掛けてきたわね！ 玄関のドアが開いたとき、優子はテーブルのそばに立っているスーツを着た背が高い男性を見た。整った顔立ちは氷のように冷たく、その暗い瞳には優子への軽蔑が浮かんでいた。 「どこに行ってたんだ？」峻介が冷たく尋ねた。 「そんなことはいつから気にするの？」 「離婚届にサインしてもらう必要がある。」 その言葉は鋭い針のように彼女の心を刺した。濡れた体を引きずりながら、彼女はカバンから書類を静かに取り出した。 「心配する必要がない。もうサイン済みだ。」 彼女が書類をテーブルの上に置いたとき、峻介は「離婚」という二文字がこれほどまでに不愉快に思えたことはなかった。優子が唯一要求したのは、2億円の慰謝料だった。 「どうして急に同意したのかと思ったら、結局金のためか。」彼の顔が嘲笑を浮かべた。 かつてなら、自分を弁護するかもしれない。でも、今彼女はただ静かに言った。「本来なら、佐藤さんの資産の半分を請求する権利があるわ。でも、私は2億円しか要求しなかった。これでも、まだ情けをかけてるつもりよ。」 峻介は一歩前に進み、長い影が優子を覆った。彼は彼女の顎を細長い指で掴み、冷たい声で言った。「今、何て呼んだ？」 「佐藤さん、もしこの呼び方が嫌なら、元夫と呼び直してもいいわよ。さあ、書類にサインして帰ってもらっていい？」 彼は不愉快そうな顔をした。「ここは俺の家だ。出て行けと言う権利はお前にはあるかい。」 優子は皮肉げに微笑み、言った。「確かに、その権利はないわ。でも、安心して、佐藤さん。離婚証明書を受け取ったら、すぐに出て行く。」 また、彼の手を振り払い、冷たい目で彼を見つめた。「明日の朝9時、市役所で書類を持ってきてください。」 翌朝、日の出前には優子は出発しようとした時、病院から電話がかかってきた。「高橋さん、お父さんが心臓発作を起こしました。」 「えっ？すぐ向かいます！」 病院に到着すると、手術はまだ続いていた。 今、唯一の希望は父が健康で生き続けることだけだった。 看護師が手術費用の請求書を手渡してきた。総額は300万円以上。 でも、以前支払った入院費で残金はたったの10万円。どうしても足りなかった。 仕方なく、峻介に電話をかけた。 冷たい声が聞こえる。「どこだ？もう30分待っている。」 「急なことがあって――」 「優子、これでおもしろい？」峻介が鼻で笑う。「どうせまた嘘をついているんだろう？」 そんな！ 「嘘じゃない！父が心臓発作を起こして手術が必要なの！――」 「それで、死んだのか？」峻介が遮った。 その言葉に、優子は耳を疑った。そんな言い方する人がいるのか？ 「いいえ！峻介、手術費が300万円以上かかるの。だから慰謝料を先に振り込んでくれない？必ず離婚するから！」 「優子、俺が誰よりも君の父親の死を望んでいることを理解しているよな。金を渡すのはいいだろう、でも手続きが終わった後にだ。」 それだけ言うと、電話は切られた。 優子の顔には困惑が浮かんでいた。かつて彼は父に対して敬意を払っていたはずだった。しかし、今の彼の声には本気の憎しみが滲んでいた。 なぜだ？ 2年前の高橋家の破産と結びつけて考えると、偶然の出来事とは思えなくなってきた。 もうしかして、峻介が裏で何かを仕掛けたのだ。しかし、実家は一体どうやって彼を怒らせてしまったのだろう？ 今、考え込む余裕もなく、父の治療費を何とかするのが最優先だった。 手術室の扉が開いた。「先生？」 「髙橋さん、お父様はなんとか持ちこたえました。」 優子はようやく胸を撫で下ろした。 介護人に父を任せ、市役所に急いだが、峻介はどこにもなかった。 焦て電話をかける。「市役所に着いたわ。どこにいるの？」 「事務室だ。」 「今すぐ離婚手続きを済ませに来てくれない？」 峻介は薄く笑って言った。「数億円の契約とお前、どっちが大事だと思う？」 「終わるまで待つから……峻介、お願い、今父はお金が必要なの。」 「もし死んだら、葬式代を出してやるよ。」それだけ言うと、彼は電話を切った。 再び電話をかけたが、すでに電源が切られた。 優子は息が詰まるような感覚に襲われた。 彼女はあっという間に全てを失ってしまった。 今、優子が持っている唯一の価値あるものは、結婚指輪だけだった。 彼女は指輪を外し、高級宝飾店に足を踏み入れた。 「お客様、購入時の領収書と証明書はお持ちですか？」 「はい。」優子は急いで書類を差し出した。 「ありがとうございます。指輪は検査に出す必要があるので、明日またご連絡させていただけますか。」 優子は切迫した声で言った。「急いでいるんです。今日中にお願いします。」 「はい。」店員が指輪を持ち去ろうとしたその時、ある白くて繊細な手が指輪ケースを押さえた。 「この指輪、とても素敵ね。私が買うわ。」 顔を上げた優子の目に飛び込んできたのは、彼女がこの世で最も憎んでいる人物――松本里美だった		女の子が読みたい小説を大特集		141	https://www.facebook.com/61559954921868/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683895	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/13/25, 7:00 AM	1739147232	1749816023		2524																										www.ho-chunkgaming.com	Learn more			VIDEO	Flurries of Cash!	Drawing Dates February 1,8,15 & 22	https://www.ho-chunkgaming.com/nekoosa/?utm_source=charterspectrumreach&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=flurriesofcash			181781172092	Ho-Chunk Gaming Nekoosa	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474855451_9026842160740393_7515909346564307992_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3qFrQfGHPV0Q7kNvgG0DENE&_nc_oc=AdjmEgmDoGrcS57uIqaWYet6Prl4YlqLuWrAYAqPxYEx7ujR2v8I1HkClV_cxYW6lEsnBLq4JfAZAxrkTp_0A4p7&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYCh2L-jl3GcL6loT66cXAy5f6PiKF-Y9gg2LmYZdZNnDw&oe=67AF2910	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		Win a HOT Seat and Play! Hot Seat Times 12pm, 3pm, 6pm, 9pm		Ho-Chunk Gaming Nekoosa		5898	https://www.facebook.com/HCGNekoosa/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683899	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/15/25, 5:29 AM	1739147234	1744712995		2524																										heplk.com	Learn more			IMAGE	ここをクリックして無料でお読みください！		https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&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}}			3.1105348876231E+14	女の子が読みたい小説を大特集	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475440944_9130438913736892_5911369285747680551_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xh1oV8tsaacQ7kNvgEzH0c2&_nc_oc=AdjNdYUPn44MTLBoxiRFZmfiMFgYrknWRtUAzkFQMs3c83azO9_5PlKhXpU4H5-gXeJrQ--VHrr2ys_qqNhUZ4Tk&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYBuQDbSGXc62E5T3bVYZQtFV9Aw_BTXPiOimCaalOG3NQ&oe=67AF0096	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		高橋優子が末期癌と診断されたその日、夫の佐藤峻介は、初恋の相手の子供の世話をしていた。 ... 病院で、中村悠斗が渋い顔で言った。「優子さん、手術が成功すれば、生存率は15%から30%になる。」 優子はかばんのひもを細い指でぎゅっと握りしめ、青ざめた小さな顔に深い陰りを浮かべていた。 「先輩、もし手術を受けなければ、どのくらい生きられるの？」 「半年から1年ぐらい。」 優子は唇をぎゅっと噛みしめ、やっと言葉を吐き出した。「先輩、このことは秘密にしてちょうだい。家族を心配させたくないの。」 高橋家はすでに破産しており、優子は父親の医療費を工面するだけでも精一杯だった。 悠斗は諦めたように言った。「口外しないよ。でも、結婚していると聞いた。旦那さん――」 「お父さんのことはお願いね。もう行かないと。」優子は夫の話題を避けるように、早々にその場を立ち去った。 父親の治療が始まってからの2年間、夫である佐藤峻介は一度も姿を見せたことがなかった。彼女が倒れて通行人に病院へ運ばれた時でさえもだ。 かつては彼も優子を大切にしていた。だが、初恋の相手である松本里美が妊娠した状態で帰国してから、すべてが変わった。 優子もかつて妊娠していたことがあった。ある日、湖で松本里美とともに落水した時、必死にもがきながら、彼が里美に向かって泳いでいく姿を見た。 後、里美は無事に子どもを産んだ。でも優子は母親になる機会を奪われた。 7日後、峻介は離婚を求めたが、彼女は拒否した。 だが、病気のことを知った今、彼女は震える手で彼の電話をかけた。 3回目のコールでつながると、彼の冷たい声が聞こえてきた。「離婚以外の用件なら、お前に会う気はない。」 優子は涙をこらえ、癌の話を切り出すことができなかった。すると電話の向こうから里美の声が聞こえてきた。「峻介君、そろそろ赤ちゃんの定期検査よ。」 その瞬間、こらえていた涙が一気に溢れ出した。すべてを終わらせる時が来たのだ。 優子はこ震える声で、絞り出すようにぽつりと呟いた。「峻介……もう、離婚しよう。」 峻介は一瞬、驚いたようだったが、冷笑して言った。「優子、今度はどんな手を使うつもりだ？」 「家で待ってるから。」 峻介は、電話が突然切られた後、呆然とスマホを見つめていた。 一年間拒否し続けてきた優子が、なぜ今急に同意したのだろう？ 彼女に会いに行くことを決めた。 「峻介、どこに行くのよ？」里美が子どもを抱えながら追いかけてきた。 しかし、彼は何も言わず立ち去った。その瞬間、里美の優しい表情はみるみるうちに恐ろしいほど暗くなった。 あの女……また何か仕掛けてきたわね！ 玄関のドアが開いたとき、優子はテーブルのそばに立っているスーツを着た背が高い男性を見た。整った顔立ちは氷のように冷たく、その暗い瞳には優子への軽蔑が浮かんでいた。 「どこに行ってたんだ？」峻介が冷たく尋ねた。 「そんなことはいつから気にするの？」 「離婚届にサインしてもらう必要がある。」 その言葉は鋭い針のように彼女の心を刺した。濡れた体を引きずりながら、彼女はカバンから書類を静かに取り出した。 「心配する必要がない。もうサイン済みだ。」 彼女が書類をテーブルの上に置いたとき、峻介は「離婚」という二文字がこれほどまでに不愉快に思えたことはなかった。優子が唯一要求したのは、2億円の慰謝料だった。 「どうして急に同意したのかと思ったら、結局金のためか。」彼の顔が嘲笑を浮かべた。 かつてなら、自分を弁護するかもしれない。でも、今彼女はただ静かに言った。「本来なら、佐藤さんの資産の半分を請求する権利があるわ。でも、私は2億円しか要求しなかった。これでも、まだ情けをかけてるつもりよ。」 峻介は一歩前に進み、長い影が優子を覆った。彼は彼女の顎を細長い指で掴み、冷たい声で言った。「今、何て呼んだ？」 「佐藤さん、もしこの呼び方が嫌なら、元夫と呼び直してもいいわよ。さあ、書類にサインして帰ってもらっていい？」 彼は不愉快そうな顔をした。「ここは俺の家だ。出て行けと言う権利はお前にはあるかい。」 優子は皮肉げに微笑み、言った。「確かに、その権利はないわ。でも、安心して、佐藤さん。離婚証明書を受け取ったら、すぐに出て行く。」 また、彼の手を振り払い、冷たい目で彼を見つめた。「明日の朝9時、市役所で書類を持ってきてください。」 翌朝、日の出前には優子は出発しようとした時、病院から電話がかかってきた。「高橋さん、お父さんが心臓発作を起こしました。」 「えっ？すぐ向かいます！」 病院に到着すると、手術はまだ続いていた。 今、唯一の希望は父が健康で生き続けることだけだった。 看護師が手術費用の請求書を手渡してきた。総額は300万円以上。 でも、以前支払った入院費で残金はたったの10万円。どうしても足りなかった。 仕方なく、峻介に電話をかけた。 冷たい声が聞こえる。「どこだ？もう30分待っている。」 「急なことがあって――」 「優子、これでおもしろい？」峻介が鼻で笑う。「どうせまた嘘をついているんだろう？」 そんな！ 「嘘じゃない！父が心臓発作を起こして手術が必要なの！――」 「それで、死んだのか？」峻介が遮った。 その言葉に、優子は耳を疑った。そんな言い方する人がいるのか？ 「いいえ！峻介、手術費が300万円以上かかるの。だから慰謝料を先に振り込んでくれない？必ず離婚するから！」 「優子、俺が誰よりも君の父親の死を望んでいることを理解しているよな。金を渡すのはいいだろう、でも手続きが終わった後にだ。」 それだけ言うと、電話は切られた。 優子の顔には困惑が浮かんでいた。かつて彼は父に対して敬意を払っていたはずだった。しかし、今の彼の声には本気の憎しみが滲んでいた。 なぜだ？ 2年前の高橋家の破産と結びつけて考えると、偶然の出来事とは思えなくなってきた。 もうしかして、峻介が裏で何かを仕掛けたのだ。しかし、実家は一体どうやって彼を怒らせてしまったのだろう？ 今、考え込む余裕もなく、父の治療費を何とかするのが最優先だった。 手術室の扉が開いた。「先生？」 「髙橋さん、お父様はなんとか持ちこたえました。」 優子はようやく胸を撫で下ろした。 介護人に父を任せ、市役所に急いだが、峻介はどこにもなかった。 焦て電話をかける。「市役所に着いたわ。どこにいるの？」 「事務室だ。」 「今すぐ離婚手続きを済ませに来てくれない？」 峻介は薄く笑って言った。「数億円の契約とお前、どっちが大事だと思う？」 「終わるまで待つから……峻介、お願い、今父はお金が必要なの。」 「もし死んだら、葬式代を出してやるよ。」それだけ言うと、彼は電話を切った。 再び電話をかけたが、すでに電源が切られた。 優子は息が詰まるような感覚に襲われた。 彼女はあっという間に全てを失ってしまった。 今、優子が持っている唯一の価値あるものは、結婚指輪だけだった。 彼女は指輪を外し、高級宝飾店に足を踏み入れた。 「お客様、購入時の領収書と証明書はお持ちですか？」 「はい。」優子は急いで書類を差し出した。 「ありがとうございます。指輪は検査に出す必要があるので、明日またご連絡させていただけますか。」 優子は切迫した声で言った。「急いでいるんです。今日中にお願いします。」 「はい。」店員が指輪を持ち去ろうとしたその時、ある白くて繊細な手が指輪ケースを押さえた。 「この指輪、とても素敵ね。私が買うわ。」 顔を上げた優子の目に飛び込んできたのは、彼女がこの世で最も憎んでいる人物――松本里美だった		女の子が読みたい小説を大特集		141	https://www.facebook.com/61559954921868/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683944	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/13/25, 8:54 PM	1739147245	1749866059		2524																										dwsmjlix.com	Learn more			IMAGE	계속 읽으려면 클릭👉		https://www.dwsmjlix.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=18133&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}}			2.8305355155039E+14	소설의 세계	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476089992_848758400686154_6767478574675999174_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OonwzC2YoG8Q7kNvgHd7Apx&_nc_oc=AdiOeY22t8IffGsTnESg5O7El-mmC0PjinS4HypbSb3fpc2H9N4ovQP7Eov6_IQQC2O6povggiNe512Wx9PGRlan&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYAgNx51T2jSG4DQ5E9lZdIatDvIJuRUz1ZV8P38_3zZZQ&oe=67AF209C	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		임신한 남편의 여사친이 우리 집으로 들어오게 되었다. “우리 둘 다 위험에 처하면, 사현이는 누구부터 구해줄 것 같아요?” 그녀의 말을 곱씹을 틈도 없이 나의 몸은 힘없이 중심을 잃고 계단에서 미끄러져 바닥으로 떨어졌다. 그리고 권사현의 발걸음 소리가 들린 순간 차은별이 내 곁으로 달려와서 털썩 누웠다. 어느 순간 권사현은 나에게 다가오는 듯했다. 하지만 예상과 달리, 그는 결국 멈춰 서서 차은별에게 돌아섰다. … 오늘은 우리의 결혼기념일이다. 이를 기념하며 나는 오붓한 저녁 식사를 제안했다. 평소 차가운 태도를 일관하던 남편 권사현도 바쁜 와중에 시간을 내줬다. 그리고 나는 어제 주치의로부터 임신 사실을 알게 되었다. 이 소식을 결혼기념일 저녁 식사 자리에서 전하기 위해 줄곧 기다리고 있었다. 그러나 말을 하기전 그의 휴대폰이 울리며 평화로운 분위기를 깼고, 나는 말문이 막혀 버렸다. 권사현은 휴대폰을 확인하더니 표정이 어두워졌다. “미안. 회사 연락이야. 꼭 가봐야 해.” “괜찮아. 다녀 와. 난 여기 있을게.” 내 목소리는 의도했던 것보다 훨씬 무덤덤하게 들렸다. “내가 꼭 보상할게. 보석이든 뭐든, 네가 원하는 걸 사줄게.” 그는 서둘러 밖으로 나가며 외쳤다. 나는 의자에 기대며 좌절과 실망에 빠졌다. 결혼기념일 날 밤 9시에 남편이 일하러 가버리고 말았다. 나는 체념의 한숨을 내쉬며 식탁을 치웠다. 남은 음식은 전부 쓰레기통에 버렸다. ... 아침 일찍 레스토랑에 도착하자 익숙한 주방 소음이 들렸다. 그때 매니저 이준혁이 다가왔다. “차솁, 지금 시간 있어요?” “네.” 나는 메뉴에서 눈을 떼며 대답했다. “이번에 해외 연수 기회가 있는데 시간은 3년 정도 걸려요. 좋은 기회인 것 같은데, 혹시 관심 있어요?” 3년이라니... 곧 태어날 아기를 생각하면 아주 긴 시간이다. 하지만 이준혁의 제안은 내 마음 깊은 곳에서 무언가를 건드렸다. 이건 권사현의 그늘에서 벗어나 내 스스로 무언가 이뤄낼 기회였다. 나는 항상 그의 지원에 의존해 왔다. 그를 사랑하긴 하지만 스스로 이뤄낸 성공도 맛보고 싶었다. “천천히 생각해요. 남편분이랑도 상의해 보고요. 평생을 좌우할 결정이니 신중해야 하지 않겠어요?” 말을 마친 그는 바로 떠났다. 나는 다시 한숨을 내쉬며 생각에 빠졌다. 이런저런 생각이 머릿속을 가득 채우는 동안에도 나는 점심 준비로 바쁘게 움직였다. … 몇 시간 후, 한 직원이 주방으로 달려왔다. “어떤 손님이 차솁을 만나겠다고 고집하고 있어요.” “무슨 문제죠?” “말을 안 하고 그냥 진상 짓만 해요. 담당 셰프를 만나겠다고요.” 나는 황급히 앞치마를 벗고 손을 씻은 뒤 직원을 따라 주방 밖으로 나갔다. “안녕하세요, 채연서 셰프입니다.” 나는 손님의 테이블 앞에 멈춰 섰다. “불편을 드려 죄송합니다. 음식에 어떤 문제가 있나요?” 상대는 임신한 여자였다. “문제요? 전부 다 문제예요! 음식이 너무 밋밋해요.” 그녀는 날카롭게 말을 내뱉었다. “이런 음식을 만든 사람이 어떻게 셰프인지 모르겠네요.” 나는 그녀의 말을 차분히 들으며 메뉴와 재료에 관해 설명하며 내 요리를 변호했지만, 그녀의 태도는 여전히 완강했다. “당신이 뭐라고 하든 상관없어요. 내 남편이 올 때까지 기다려요. 당신 해고시킬 거니까요.” 나는 미간을 살짝 찌푸렸다가도 금만 전문적인 태도를 유지했다. “손님, 저희 음식은 최고의 재료로 최고 수준으로 준비되고 있습니다. 이 요리가 만족스럽지 않았다면 무료로 다른 요리를 제공해 드릴게요.” 그녀는 무심하게 머리를 쓸어 넘기며 말했다. “필요 없다고요. 당신 때문에 나랑 내 아이가 중독될 뻔했으니 해고 처리할 거예요. 내 남편이 알아서 할 거니까 나랑 말할 것도 없어요.” 나는 깊은숨을 들이마시고 그녀에게 양해를 구한 뒤 사무실로 돌아왔다. 정말 말도 안 되는 상황이었다. 남편이 도대체 얼마나 잘났기에 무고한 나를 해고할 수 있단 말인가? 밖으로 다시 나가려는 찰나 사무실 문에서 노크 소리가 났다. “솁, 손님 남편분 오셨어요.” 나는 이 터무니없는 상황을 빨리 끝내고 싶은 마음에 생각을 가다듬고 나섰다. 그녀의 남편이 무슨 권력을 가졌든 나는 걱정하지 않았다. 나는 내 일에 자신이 있었고 내 능력을 믿고 있기 때문이다. 하지만 로비로 다시 들어서면서, 나는 그녀와 얘기하고 있는 키 큰 남자의 모습을 보고 숨이 턱 막혔다. 그 사람의 정체는 얼굴을 보기 전에도 알 수 있었다. 상대는 바로 권사현, 내 남편이었다.		소설의 세계		724	https://www.facebook.com/61557428073507/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683925	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/12/25, 3:13 PM	1739147238	1749759219		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			VIDEO	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		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-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474556695_1307330413942013_2719687232333449173_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wlQpHS7vJhMQ7kNvgE3tP_U&_nc_oc=Adj91vLEaLlLggg7vEPnvcsxWA9Y0yEPhY4bMxCvAZruCbEYlNsmF-f6oJeddiFphKwIyZEor1TzTeZhq2h84ASd&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AfYoqq0eDZDf5co9438CpaJ&oh=00_AYDBBIk8raJ2SVs_CtJMuyCpyUiJtOMzyfJDrK97sq1Whg&oe=67AF2997	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... Neah "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. "Please…." I beg. "He was an Alpha…I… 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		3802	https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683884	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/21/25, 10:05 AM	1739147230	1745247960		2524																										norvure.com	Shop now			IMAGE	2 in 1 Physical and Chemical Sunscreen Combo SPF50+	40% Off Until Midnight	https://norvure.com/products/peptide-9-2-in-1-physical-and-chemical-sunscreen-combo-spf50-2-pack			1.0499263250923E+14	HeartlyLove	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448134581_1528333388102910_7050010973605501980_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZAIiT23GyWwQ7kNvgFTAn2p&_nc_oc=AdgGxHsSDKer91KzIqlClRc470O7XSNHmW_41zZnVZcYn9BFPe4mAfbnFBVTpEyYrjpcp8APFP3wGxvvPx1cBETI&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWot1OYEwHq1WqQmsKfEUvg&oh=00_AYC6Plyxl408yas4nL68s72vBl8ZYcXyS6oQfmEn68N_WQ&oe=67AF0CB7	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		🌞 Ready for superior sun protection on the go? 🛡️ Meet Peptide 9 Bio Sun Stick – SPF 50+ and 9 Peptide Complex for youthful skin. 💪 Combines physical and chemical sunscreens for unbeatable UV defense. 🏊 Water-resistant, sweat-resistant, and perfect for outdoor adventures. 😌 Non-greasy, non-sticky – enjoy smooth, comfortable skin without the white cast. 👇Click Below To Get Yours 40% Off Until Midnight!		HeartlyLove		746	https://www.facebook.com/100089641703840/	0		SHOP_NOW								View Edit Delete
2683881	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	5/25/25, 1:22 PM	1739147229	1748197377		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			IMAGE	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=16865&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}}			2.1900405462262E+14	Galaxy in the Story	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471412396_900119832336335_6739113221612760215_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GEK7FG0K_pcQ7kNvgEkRAEz&_nc_oc=AdgcreuWh-M6ZzMLReaUlFFlaiA9LtKEDiKX2_tl_2rJQP4YjLUDeoaVRymJi9b16yxVxrIv4lwLwUUVGH6drOiM&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWot1OYEwHq1WqQmsKfEUvg&oh=00_AYCEG_mNlEzc2G16wN9G_lagtwLTBjXXrX6RlUWz6r8byA&oe=67AF19BB	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		My husband Killian arrived late after my grandmother's funeral because he needed to be there for his first love. He looked like he ran in his wolf form. His hair is a mess, and his tie is not even tied properly. He was breathing so fast that he couldn’t even speak. My face turned blank as I locked gazes with him. “Astrid, I couldn’t leave early because I had something I needed to take care of.” My fists balled up at my sides as I narrowed my eyes at him. “Was there anything else more important than to be on your mate’s side at the time that she needed you the most?” I shot back at him. His eyes met mine and for a fleeting moment, a shadow of remorse flickered across his gaze “If only you hadn’t stopped me that night, I would have still met my grandma while she was still alive.” Killian’s grip on the bouquet tightened when he heard my words. “I had no idea I—“ “I kept telling you that my grandmother needed me!” I yelled, interrupting him from his words. “All you cared about is Giselle who is pre9nant with your child.” I blurted out finally releasing all the emotions that I have buried down long enough. Killian could not say a word. My heart which has always been heavy, felt lighter than it was after I finally told him the things that I’ve been wanting to tell him. I glanced at him in surprise when he suddenly crouched down and placed the bouquet of flowers that he brought on the ground where my grandmother had just been buried. “I only came here to pay my respects to your grandmother. I’m sorry if I was late, that was out of my control,” Killian replied like he didn’t just hear the rest of the words that I said. My breath turned shallow and my heart burned more in anger at his heartlessness. Unable to control myself anymore, I picked up the flowers and thrashed them on Killian until the flowers were all shredded into pieces. “You are here to pay respect?!” I screamed at him. I threw what was left of the flowers to the ground. “I’m tired of this. If you can’t give me respect, I should at least give myself some respect,” I spoke in a weak voice as I collected myself together. “Let’s just stop this joke and get a divorce,” I spoke firmly, looking at Killian directly in his eyes.		Galaxy in the Story		2320	https://www.facebook.com/61555427913037/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683880	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	5/25/25, 1:23 PM	1739147229	1748197414		2524																										wwwedb.com	Learn more			IMAGE	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉		https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=16865&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}}			2.1900405462262E+14	Galaxy in the Story	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473253369_571657389039356_7312257920811038889_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=u-lFyH2jrXoQ7kNvgFukz6B&_nc_oc=Adhop8OxUu02ckYF0f-suv31Rpp-mm2bvi8PRHplc2V5o_Dkj6QUvbeCHwTXdWpJgUhMA1oKOggK7N9CKXj7bqha&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWot1OYEwHq1WqQmsKfEUvg&oh=00_AYAKqBRml4IC1bCtu9SD8hHUxi5CP9m96C_HSNFlsAig6A&oe=67AF03CF	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		My husband Killian arrived late after my grandmother's funeral because he needed to be there for his first love. He looked like he ran in his wolf form. His hair is a mess, and his tie is not even tied properly. He was breathing so fast that he couldn’t even speak. My face turned blank as I locked gazes with him. “Astrid, I couldn’t leave early because I had something I needed to take care of.” My fists balled up at my sides as I narrowed my eyes at him. “Was there anything else more important than to be on your mate’s side at the time that she needed you the most?” I shot back at him. His eyes met mine and for a fleeting moment, a shadow of remorse flickered across his gaze “If only you hadn’t stopped me that night, I would have still met my grandma while she was still alive.” Killian’s grip on the bouquet tightened when he heard my words. “I had no idea I—“ “I kept telling you that my grandmother needed me!” I yelled, interrupting him from his words. “All you cared about is Giselle who is pre9nant with your child.” I blurted out finally releasing all the emotions that I have buried down long enough. Killian could not say a word. My heart which has always been heavy, felt lighter than it was after I finally told him the things that I’ve been wanting to tell him. I glanced at him in surprise when he suddenly crouched down and placed the bouquet of flowers that he brought on the ground where my grandmother had just been buried. “I only came here to pay my respects to your grandmother. I’m sorry if I was late, that was out of my control,” Killian replied like he didn’t just hear the rest of the words that I said. My breath turned shallow and my heart burned more in anger at his heartlessness. Unable to control myself anymore, I picked up the flowers and thrashed them on Killian until the flowers were all shredded into pieces. “You are here to pay respect?!” I screamed at him. I threw what was left of the flowers to the ground. “I’m tired of this. If you can’t give me respect, I should at least give myself some respect,” I spoke in a weak voice as I collected myself together. “Let’s just stop this joke and get a divorce,” I spoke firmly, looking at Killian directly in his eyes.		Galaxy in the Story		2320	https://www.facebook.com/61555427913037/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683898	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	7/5/25, 8:36 PM	1739147233	1751765794		2524																										heplk.com	Learn more			IMAGE	ここをクリックして無料でお読みください！		https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&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}}			3.1105348876231E+14	女の子が読みたい小説を大特集	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475906959_995863312449316_3133145474119568182_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=23sdkA_xzBgQ7kNvgHhwj2i&_nc_oc=AdgRelDaK9DorFQ6SpC_lQRKA48FaksSCJ4qx26U0EhDQkhNahnN7pd1y-NC8xjlaQwncnCy3zENRabB2Yew1Mty&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYDtCgV5meYZol37CvBn0asJ6u6gFQ2cdWUCL9dGI-HKdA&oe=67AF0FC1	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		高橋優子が末期癌と診断されたその日、夫の佐藤峻介は、初恋の相手の子供の世話をしていた。 ... 病院で、中村悠斗が渋い顔で言った。「優子さん、手術が成功すれば、生存率は15%から30%になる。」 優子はかばんのひもを細い指でぎゅっと握りしめ、青ざめた小さな顔に深い陰りを浮かべていた。 「先輩、もし手術を受けなければ、どのくらい生きられるの？」 「半年から1年ぐらい。」 優子は唇をぎゅっと噛みしめ、やっと言葉を吐き出した。「先輩、このことは秘密にしてちょうだい。家族を心配させたくないの。」 高橋家はすでに破産しており、優子は父親の医療費を工面するだけでも精一杯だった。 悠斗は諦めたように言った。「口外しないよ。でも、結婚していると聞いた。旦那さん――」 「お父さんのことはお願いね。もう行かないと。」優子は夫の話題を避けるように、早々にその場を立ち去った。 父親の治療が始まってからの2年間、夫である佐藤峻介は一度も姿を見せたことがなかった。彼女が倒れて通行人に病院へ運ばれた時でさえもだ。 かつては彼も優子を大切にしていた。だが、初恋の相手である松本里美が妊娠した状態で帰国してから、すべてが変わった。 優子もかつて妊娠していたことがあった。ある日、湖で松本里美とともに落水した時、必死にもがきながら、彼が里美に向かって泳いでいく姿を見た。 後、里美は無事に子どもを産んだ。でも優子は母親になる機会を奪われた。 7日後、峻介は離婚を求めたが、彼女は拒否した。 だが、病気のことを知った今、彼女は震える手で彼の電話をかけた。 3回目のコールでつながると、彼の冷たい声が聞こえてきた。「離婚以外の用件なら、お前に会う気はない。」 優子は涙をこらえ、癌の話を切り出すことができなかった。すると電話の向こうから里美の声が聞こえてきた。「峻介君、そろそろ赤ちゃんの定期検査よ。」 その瞬間、こらえていた涙が一気に溢れ出した。すべてを終わらせる時が来たのだ。 優子はこ震える声で、絞り出すようにぽつりと呟いた。「峻介……もう、離婚しよう。」 峻介は一瞬、驚いたようだったが、冷笑して言った。「優子、今度はどんな手を使うつもりだ？」 「家で待ってるから。」 峻介は、電話が突然切られた後、呆然とスマホを見つめていた。 一年間拒否し続けてきた優子が、なぜ今急に同意したのだろう？ 彼女に会いに行くことを決めた。 「峻介、どこに行くのよ？」里美が子どもを抱えながら追いかけてきた。 しかし、彼は何も言わず立ち去った。その瞬間、里美の優しい表情はみるみるうちに恐ろしいほど暗くなった。 あの女……また何か仕掛けてきたわね！ 玄関のドアが開いたとき、優子はテーブルのそばに立っているスーツを着た背が高い男性を見た。整った顔立ちは氷のように冷たく、その暗い瞳には優子への軽蔑が浮かんでいた。 「どこに行ってたんだ？」峻介が冷たく尋ねた。 「そんなことはいつから気にするの？」 「離婚届にサインしてもらう必要がある。」 その言葉は鋭い針のように彼女の心を刺した。濡れた体を引きずりながら、彼女はカバンから書類を静かに取り出した。 「心配する必要がない。もうサイン済みだ。」 彼女が書類をテーブルの上に置いたとき、峻介は「離婚」という二文字がこれほどまでに不愉快に思えたことはなかった。優子が唯一要求したのは、2億円の慰謝料だった。 「どうして急に同意したのかと思ったら、結局金のためか。」彼の顔が嘲笑を浮かべた。 かつてなら、自分を弁護するかもしれない。でも、今彼女はただ静かに言った。「本来なら、佐藤さんの資産の半分を請求する権利があるわ。でも、私は2億円しか要求しなかった。これでも、まだ情けをかけてるつもりよ。」 峻介は一歩前に進み、長い影が優子を覆った。彼は彼女の顎を細長い指で掴み、冷たい声で言った。「今、何て呼んだ？」 「佐藤さん、もしこの呼び方が嫌なら、元夫と呼び直してもいいわよ。さあ、書類にサインして帰ってもらっていい？」 彼は不愉快そうな顔をした。「ここは俺の家だ。出て行けと言う権利はお前にはあるかい。」 優子は皮肉げに微笑み、言った。「確かに、その権利はないわ。でも、安心して、佐藤さん。離婚証明書を受け取ったら、すぐに出て行く。」 また、彼の手を振り払い、冷たい目で彼を見つめた。「明日の朝9時、市役所で書類を持ってきてください。」 翌朝、日の出前には優子は出発しようとした時、病院から電話がかかってきた。「高橋さん、お父さんが心臓発作を起こしました。」 「えっ？すぐ向かいます！」 病院に到着すると、手術はまだ続いていた。 今、唯一の希望は父が健康で生き続けることだけだった。 看護師が手術費用の請求書を手渡してきた。総額は300万円以上。 でも、以前支払った入院費で残金はたったの10万円。どうしても足りなかった。 仕方なく、峻介に電話をかけた。 冷たい声が聞こえる。「どこだ？もう30分待っている。」 「急なことがあって――」 「優子、これでおもしろい？」峻介が鼻で笑う。「どうせまた嘘をついているんだろう？」 そんな！ 「嘘じゃない！父が心臓発作を起こして手術が必要なの！――」 「それで、死んだのか？」峻介が遮った。 その言葉に、優子は耳を疑った。そんな言い方する人がいるのか？ 「いいえ！峻介、手術費が300万円以上かかるの。だから慰謝料を先に振り込んでくれない？必ず離婚するから！」 「優子、俺が誰よりも君の父親の死を望んでいることを理解しているよな。金を渡すのはいいだろう、でも手続きが終わった後にだ。」 それだけ言うと、電話は切られた。 優子の顔には困惑が浮かんでいた。かつて彼は父に対して敬意を払っていたはずだった。しかし、今の彼の声には本気の憎しみが滲んでいた。 なぜだ？ 2年前の高橋家の破産と結びつけて考えると、偶然の出来事とは思えなくなってきた。 もうしかして、峻介が裏で何かを仕掛けたのだ。しかし、実家は一体どうやって彼を怒らせてしまったのだろう？ 今、考え込む余裕もなく、父の治療費を何とかするのが最優先だった。 手術室の扉が開いた。「先生？」 「髙橋さん、お父様はなんとか持ちこたえました。」 優子はようやく胸を撫で下ろした。 介護人に父を任せ、市役所に急いだが、峻介はどこにもなかった。 焦て電話をかける。「市役所に着いたわ。どこにいるの？」 「事務室だ。」 「今すぐ離婚手続きを済ませに来てくれない？」 峻介は薄く笑って言った。「数億円の契約とお前、どっちが大事だと思う？」 「終わるまで待つから……峻介、お願い、今父はお金が必要なの。」 「もし死んだら、葬式代を出してやるよ。」それだけ言うと、彼は電話を切った。 再び電話をかけたが、すでに電源が切られた。 優子は息が詰まるような感覚に襲われた。 彼女はあっという間に全てを失ってしまった。 今、優子が持っている唯一の価値あるものは、結婚指輪だけだった。 彼女は指輪を外し、高級宝飾店に足を踏み入れた。 「お客様、購入時の領収書と証明書はお持ちですか？」 「はい。」優子は急いで書類を差し出した。 「ありがとうございます。指輪は検査に出す必要があるので、明日またご連絡させていただけますか。」 優子は切迫した声で言った。「急いでいるんです。今日中にお願いします。」 「はい。」店員が指輪を持ち去ろうとしたその時、ある白くて繊細な手が指輪ケースを押さえた。 「この指輪、とても素敵ね。私が買うわ。」 顔を上げた優子の目に飛び込んできたのは、彼女がこの世で最も憎んでいる人物――松本里美だった		女の子が読みたい小説を大特集		141	https://www.facebook.com/61559954921868/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683885	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	4/21/25, 5:17 PM	1739147230	1745273853		2524																										operkn.com	Learn more			IMAGE	이곳을 클릭하고 무료로 읽어보세요!		https://operkn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11942&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}}			3.2362714083366E+14	남성 소설 모음	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476384689_641689602136175_5527132392105574113_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TKHUv5QqMrQQ7kNvgHUaZtN&_nc_oc=AdjmLlGEoEdDQlBfT1c_b5e-fIIvRFs7mmuxIEG0zNP-wxb_Jh-0ixTlwa8mEFdHL6wWEMG5xnnvOIp46X3aoba8&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AEIEQlErfi-gfiRMVRpGOx-&oh=00_AYAgiT2lZp83TrCnQ8c7xLe0aOV7np7nkG81hEneooaB2Q&oe=67AF32BB	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		때는 밤 11시. 형님 집 아래에 있는 공원에서 야간 러닝을 하던 중, 풀숲 속에서 들려오는 남녀의 바스락 소리가 들려왔다. “진동성, 설마 안 되는 거야? 집에서는 느낌 안 산다고 해서 여기까지 왔더니, 왜 아직도 안 돼?” ‘저거 우리 형수님 목소리 아니야?’ 나는 그 소리를 듣자마자 여자가 내 형수님 고태연이라는 걸 알아버렸다. ‘형과 형수는 밥 먹으러 간다고 했는데? 왜 공원 풀숲에 있는 거지?’ 여자 친구는 한 번도 안 사귀어 봤지만 동영상은 그래도 많이 봤다고 자부하기에, 나는 곧바로 두 사람이 무슨 짓을 하는지 알아버렸다. ‘형과 형수님이 이런 스릴을 좋아할 줄은 몰랐네. 그것도 공원에서.’ 순간 몰래 엿듣고 싶다는 생각을 참을 수 없었다. 형수는 얼굴도 예쁘장한데 몸매는 더 끝내준다. 그런 형수의 신음소리라니 이건 꿈에 그리던 일이었다. 살금살금 수풀 쪽으로 걸어가 몰래 머리를 내밀었더니 형수님이 형 위에 앉아 있었다. 물론 나를 등지고 있었지만 등 라인을 감탄할 수밖에 없었다. 순간 입이 바싹 마르고 아랫배에 열기가 올라왔다. 하지만 이렇게 매력적인 형수님 앞에서 형은 영 맥을 못 췄다. “태연아, 나 여전히 안 되는데.” 그 말에 형수가 버럭 화를 냈다. “약도 없네, 정말. 이제 고작 서른다섯이면서 왜 이렇게 쓸모가 없어? 안 서면 싸기라도 해야 할 거 아니야. 아무것도 없으면 애는 어떻게 가져? 계속 이러면 나 다른 사람 만난다? 당신은 애 싫을지 몰라도 나는 엄마가 되고 싶다고.” 잔뜩 화가 난 형수가 바지를 입고는 수풀 밖으로 걸어 나오자 놀란 나는 헐레벌떡 도망쳤다. 집에 돌아온 지 얼마 지나지 않아 형수가 돌아오는 소리가 들렸다. ‘쾅’ 닫히는 문소리에 내 가슴도 ‘철렁’ 내려앉았다. ‘깜짝 놀랐네. 형과 형수님 사이가 이렇게 안 좋을 줄이야.’ 나는 속으로 중얼거리며 가슴을 쓸어내렸다. 여자는 나이가 들수록 욕구가 많아진다더니 형수님도 욕구 불만인 게 틀림없었다. ‘하긴, 형처럼 비실비실한 몸으로 형수님을 어떻게 만족시키겠어? 나 정도는 돼야지.’ ‘퉤퉤퉤! 내가 지금 무슨 생각을 하는 거야? 고태연은 내 형수님이라고 어떻게 이런 생각을 할 수 있어?’ 물론 내가 진동성과 친형제는 아니지만 친형제 못지않게 끈끈한 사이다. 형이 아니었으면 내가 대학도 갈 수 없었을 거고. 내가 이런저런 생각에 잠겨 있을 때, 옆방에서 낮은 신음소리가 들려왔다. 얼른 귀를 벽에 대고 엿들어 봤더니 이건 틀림없이 신음이었다. ‘형수가 지금...’ 생각할수록 몸이 달아올라 도저히 참을 수 없어 나도 결국 바지 버클을 내렸다. 잠시 뒤, 벽 하나를 사이 두고 나와 형수의 신음 소리가 한데 섞였다. 영혼이 이어진 듯한 느낌에 나도 모르게 온갖 생각이 들었다. 형수가 나와 만났다면 얼마나 좋을까 하는 생각이 들어났다. 하지만 이건 절대 불가능한 일이다. 형수와 나 사이에는 영원히 넘을 수 없는 형이라는 존재가 있으니. 형한테 미안한 일은 할 수 없다. 더러워진 속옷을 대충 화장실에 두고 나는 내일 씻자는 생각으로 잠이 들었다. 이튿날, 잠에서 깨었을 때 시간은 벌써 9시가 넘었다. 형은 이미 출근했고 집에는 나와 형수 둘뿐이었다. 아침을 하는 형수는 실크로 된 나시 슬립을 입은 채로 굴곡진 몸매를 드러냈다. 특히 풍만한 가슴을 본 순간 입이 바싹 말랐다. “수호 씨, 일어났어요? 얼른 씻고 밥 먹어요.” 형수는 나를 보자마자 먼저 인사를 건넸다. 내가 이곳에 온 지는 아직 며칠 되지 않기에 형수와 아직 친해지지 못하여 많이 어색했다. 이에 나는 짤막하게 대답하고 곧장 화장실로 향했다. 그렇게 한창 씻던 그때, 갑자기 어제 벗어두었던 속옷이 내 뇌리를 스쳤다. ‘형수가 나보다 일찍 깨어났는데 설마 본 건 아니겠지?’ 이런 생각을 하며 재빨리 확인한 나는 그대로 얼어붙고 말았다. 속옷이 사라졌다. 내가 이곳저곳 찾고 있을 때 갑자기 뒤에서 형수의 목소리가 들려왔다. “찾을 필요 없어요. 이미 씻었으니까.” 순간 가슴이 철렁했다. ‘그 속옷에 내 정액이 가득 묻어 있는데, 형수가 씻었다면 봤을 거잖아!’ 이건 너무 부끄러웠다. 그런데 형수는 팔짱을 낀 채 눈웃음을 치며 아무렇지 않은 듯 나를 봤다. “수호 씨, 혹시 어제 무슨 소리 들었어요?” 나는 고개를 절레절레 흔들며 어제 형수의 소리를 들었다는 걸 극구 부인했다. “아니요, 아무것도 못 들었어요.” “그래요? 내 방에서 이상한 소리 듣지 못했어요?” ‘이건 나를 시험하는 건가?’ “저 어제 10시쯤에 잠들어서 아무것도 못 들었어요.” 이 말을 끝으로 나는 도망치듯 그 자리를 벗어났다. 왠지 모르겠지만 형수의 심문에 가슴이 콕콕 찔렸고 눈은 저도 모르게 형수의 가슴으로 향했다. 분명 마가 낀 게 틀림없다. 나는 곧장 식탁 앞에 앉아 묵묵히 음식을 먹었다. 하지만 밥이 코로 넘어가는지 입으로 넘어가는지 모르겠다. 그도 그럴 게, 형수가 이내 걸어와 하필이면 내 옆에 앉았기 때문이다. 왜 이러는지 이해가 되지 않는다. 예전에는 분명 내 맞은편에 앉았는데, 오늘은 왜 내 옆에 앉는지. 내가 이런저런 생각에 잠겨 있을 때, 형수가 갑자기 손가락으로 내 팔뚝을 쿡쿡 찔렀다. 순간 온몸이 감전되는 듯 찌릿해 났다. ‘여자가 내 몸을 만지는 게 이런 기분이구나.’ 신기한 기분이었다. “수호 씨, 혹시 내가 무서워요?” “아니요. 그냥 조금 어색해서요.” “사람은 원래 어색하다가 점점 익숙해지는 거 아니겠어요? 어색하니까 더 많이 교류해야죠. 그래야 얼른 친해지죠. 수호 씨, 남자와 여자가 가장 빨리 친해지는 방법이 뭔지 알아요?” 내 착각인지 모르겠으나 형수는 분명 나에게 암시하는 것 같았다. 그걸 인식하니 너무 당황해 밥이 넘어가지 않았다. 설렘 반 긴장 반인 심정으로 형수의 말에 담긴 의미를 생각하다가 끝내 용기를 내 질문했다. “뭔데요?” “아이 만드는 거요.” 형수는 맑은 두 눈으로 나를 바라보며 아주 직설적으로 말했다. 그 순간 나는 사레가 걸렸다. 형수가 왜 이런 말을 하는지 이해가 되지 않았다. 내가 형수와 뭘 할 수 있다고. ‘설마 나를 노리나?’ ‘형이 안 되니까 나한테 희망을 품은 건가?’ ‘안돼, 난 절대 형한테 미안한 일 할 수 없어.’ 나는 다급히 의자를 들고 옆으로 물러났다. “형수, 농담하지 마세요. 누가 보면 오해해요.” 형수는 나를 보며 피식 웃더니 곧장 질문했다. “그럼 솔직히 말해봐요. 어제 무슨 소리 들었어요? 솔직히 말하지 않으면 깊은 대화를 해봐야 할 것 같은데요.” ‘헉, 절대 그럴 수 없어.’ 나는 놀란 가슴을 다독이며 결국 입을 열었다. “형수님, 저 확실히 무슨 소리 들었어요. 하지만 고의는 아니었어요.” “혹시 내 신음 소리였어요? 듣기 좋던가요?” 형수님이 이렇게 노골적인 질문을 할 거라고는 생각지도 못했다. 얼굴은 화끈 달아올랐고, 가슴은 요란하게 북을 쳐 어떻게 대답해야 할지 갈피를 잡지 못했다. 그러던 그때. 마침 밖에서 노크 소리가 들려오자 나는 지푸라기라도 잡는 심정으로 얼른 달려가 문 쪽으로 달려갔다. 그리고 문을 열었더니 밖에는 늘씬한 여자 한 명이 서 있었다. 얼굴은 예쁘장한 데다, 나올 데 나오고 들어갈 데 들어가 연예인 못지않았다. 여자는 나를 보자 눈을 크게 뜨며 물었다. “그쪽은 누구죠?” 그 말에 나는 어이가 없었다. “그러는 그쪽은 누군데요?” 제2화 “애교야, 왔어? 얼른 들어와.” 내가 한참 답답해하고 있을 때, 형수가 다가와 낯선 여자를 친절하게 맞이했다. 여자는 형수의 초대로 곧장 집 안에 들어섰다. 그러자 형수가 우리를 소개했다. 여자는 형수의 친한 친구인데, 이름은 이애교, 바로 옆집에 살고 있었다. “애교야, 이 사람은 동성 씨와 같은 마을에 살던 동생이야, 정수호라고, 어제 왔어.” 애교라는 여자는 이상한 눈으로 나를 보더니 이내 빙그레 웃었다. “동성 씨한테 이렇게 어리고 잘생긴 동생이 다 있었어?” “수호 씨 이제 막 대학 졸업했어. 그러니 당연히 젊지. 젊을 뿐만 아니라 엄청 튼실해.” 내 착각일지 모르겠으나 형수의 마지막 한마디는 무척 의미심장했다. 심지어 눈길마저 내 아래를 흘끗거렸다. 그 동작에 나는 더 불편해졌다. 그때, 애교 누나가 나를 위아래로 훑더니 물었다. “태연아, 네가 말했던 마사지사가 설마 이 사람이야?” “맞아. 수호 씨가 어릴 때부터 할아버지한테 마사지를 배웠대. 솜씨가 엄청 좋아.” 형수는 말을 마치자마자 나를 봤다. “아까 미처 말하지 못했는데, 사실 내 친구가 허리와 척추가 아프다고 해서요. 가끔 가슴도 답답하대요. 원래는 한의사를 불러 마사지 좀 받게 하려고 했는데, 수호 씨가 마침 마사지할 줄 알잖아요. 그래서 한번 받아보게 하려고요.” ‘그런 거였군.’ 나는 단번에 승낙했다. ‘형과 형수가 나를 이곳에서 머물게 해주고 일자리도 알아봐 줬는데, 이런 일 정도야 당연히 도와야지.’ 그때, 애교 누나가 부끄러운지 형수를 옆으로 끌고 갔다. “이건 좀 아니지 않나? 너무 젊은데?” “젊은 게 뭐 어때서? 젊을수록 좋은 거 아니야? 젊어야 힘이 좋고, 그래야 너 같은 유부녀를 편하게 모실 수 있잖아.” “무슨 헛소리하는 거야. 나 그런 사람 아니거든.” 애교 누나는 얼굴을 붉혔다. 그러자 형수가 싱긋 웃으며 대답했다. “농담이야. 네가 그쪽으로 생각하니까 그렇지. 솔직히 말해봐, 네 남편 반년 동안 집에 안 왔는데, 그동안 하고 싶지 않았어?” “너 계속 이러면 나 간다?” 그때, 형수가 귀까지 빨개진 애교 누나의 팔짱을 끼며 말했다. “알았어. 안 놀릴게. 너는 점잖고 우아한 귀부인이야. 됐지? 그런데 우리 수호 씨 솜씨 엄청 좋아. 한번 해봐. 젊고 잘생긴 남자가 밖에 있는 늙은 영감보다야 낫지 않겠어?” 애교 누나는 형수의 말에 일리가 있다고 생각했는지 고개를 끄덕였다. “그럼 옆에 있어 줘. 안 그러면 어색할 것 같아.” “그래, 같이 있어 줄게.” 두 사람은 한참 동안 소곤거리더니 그제야 내 앞으로 다가왔다. 애교 누나가 형수더러 먼저 시범 보여달라고 하자 형수는 군말 없이 소파에 엎드렸다. “수호 씨, 시작해요.” 나는 의자를 가져와 형수님 옆에 앉아 마사지를 하기 시작했다. 콜라병 몸매를 소유한 형수의 엉덩이는 동그랗고 볼록해 나는 저도 모르게 때리고 싶다는 생각이 들었다. “태연, 어때? 시원해?” 애교 누나가 물었다. “당연하지, 이렇게 시원하기는 오랜만이야.” 형수의 낮은 신음소리에 나와 애교 누나는 얼굴이 화끈 달아올랐다. 심지어 아래가 터질 것 같아 괴로워하고 있을 때, 애교 누나도 부자연스럽게 다리를 꽉 모았다. “됐어, 애교야. 이제 네 차례야.” 형수는 소파에서 일어나 우리에게 물을 따라주자, 애교 누나는 부끄러워하면서 소파에 눕더니 다리에 담요를 덮었다. ‘쯧, 예쁜 다리를 가리다니, 아쉽네.’ 하지만 아무리 덮는다고 해도 완벽한 몸매를 가릴 수는 없었다. 애교 누나는 마른 체형이지만 나올 데 나오고 들어갈 데 들어간 데다 얼굴까지 동안이라 눈길을 더 끌었다. 그때 내가 손을 어깨에 대자 애교 누나의 몸이 뻣뻣하게 굳었다. ‘형수님은 형수님이라 뭘 할 수 없다지만, 형수님 친구는 괜찮잖아? 게다가 남편이 오랫동안 집을 비웠다고 했으니 엄청 외로울 거야.’ “애교 누나, 시원해요?” “응.” 내 물음에 애교 누나는 부끄러운 듯 낮게 대답했다. 그 대답을 들으니 나는 더욱 대담해졌다. “더 시원하게 해줄게요.” 나는 애교 누나의 등을 타고 두 손을 점점 아래로 움직였다. 그러자 애교 누나가 몸을 부르르 떨었다. “지금 뭐 하는 거예요?” “허리 시큰거린다면서요? 허리 좀 주물러 주려고요.” 살짝 겁을 먹은 채 말했더니 애교 누나는 아무 말도 하지 않았다. 묵인을 얻자 내 손은 다시 애교 누나의 허리 위로 올라가 꾹꾹 누르기 시작했다. 애교 누나의 허리는 매우 가늘어 한 손에 잡힐 정도였다. 하지만 엉덩이는 그에 비해 크고 통통한 애플힙이었다. “사실 누나의 어깨는 크게 문제없어요. 하지만 허리에 문제가 많아요.” “네? 허리가 왜요?” 나는 불안한 듯 묻는 애교 누나의 허리를 누르며 말했다. “신장이 약해요. 신장이 약하면 이렇게 허리가 아프거든요.” “신장은 보통 남자한테 중요한 거잖아요. 나는 여자라서 크게 상관없는 거 아니에요?” “그건 오해예요. 남자든 여자든 신장이 두 개인 건 똑같잖아요. 보통 신장하면 남성 기능 쪽으로 생각하는데, 여자도 기혈이 부족하면 신장이 약할 수 있어요. 누나가 얼굴색이 창백한 것도 기혈이 부족해서 그래요. 이걸 장기적으로 방치하면 다른 문제가 생기거든요.” “그럼 어떡해요?” 애교 누나가 무의식적으로 묻자 나는 씩 입꼬리를 올렸다. “사실 지금은 그렇게 심각한 게 아니라 한동안 이렇게 마사지 받으면 나을 수 있어요.” “그럼 얼른 마사지해 줘요.” “그럼 시작해요.” 나는 애교 누나의 허리를 따라 아래로 손을 내렸다. 그 순간 애교 누나의 몸이 뻣뻣하게 굳었다. 하지만 아무 말도 하지 않자 나는 더 대담하게 행동했다. 내 손은 애교 누나의 엉덩이를 스치며 다리를 덮고 있던 담요를 천천히 걷어냈다. 백옥처럼 새하얀 다리는 역시나 예술이었다. 나는 손을 점점 아래로 내려 애교 누나의 발을 쥐고 발바닥 혈 자리를 꾹꾹 눌렀다. 그러자 애교 누나는 참지 못하고 신음을 내더니 부끄러웠는지 얼굴이 새빨개졌다. “괜찮아요?” 애교 누나는 가쁜 호흡을 가다듬으며 대답했다. “괜찮아요, 계속해요.” 그 말에 나는 계속해서 애교 누나의 발바닥을 눌렀다. 그러다 참지 못하고 애교 누나의 치마 속을 훔쳐봤는데 아쉽게도 다리를 너무 꽉 모으고 있는 탓에 아무것도 볼 수 없었다. 그렇게 한참 동안 누르다가 나는 만족스럽지 않아 대담하게 요구했다. “애교 누나, 혹시 평소에 가슴이 답답하지 않아요? 내가 마사지해 줄게요.” 나는 말하면서 무의식적으로 애교 누나의 가슴을 슬쩍 스쳐봤다. ‘저기를 누를 수 있다면 얼마나 좋을까?’ 거절당할까 봐 걱정했던 것도 무색하게, 애교 누나는 바로 동의했다. “뭐, 그래요.” 순간 너무 흥분한 나머지 나는 의자를 소파 쪽으로 더 바싹 붙이며 말했다. “누나, 반듯하게 누워요. 그래야 마사지할 수 있으니까?” 애교 누나는 고분고분 뒤돌아 소파 위에 반듯하게 누웠다. 애교 누나의 가슴은 형수님 것보다 작았지만 봉긋하게 솟았다. 한 번도 여자 가슴을 만져 본 적 없어 잔뜩 긴장한 채로 손을 뻗으려는 그때, 갑자기 형수의 목소리가 들려왔다. “어머, 두 사람 진도 빠르네.” 제3화 나는 마치 나쁜 짓을 한 어린애처럼 벌떡 일어났다. “형수님, 형수님이 여긴 어쩐 일이에요?” 애교 누나도 잘못을 저지른 것처럼 벌떡 자리에서 일어났다. 심지어 양 볼은 어느새 사과처럼 빨갛게 무르익었다. “태연아, 그런 거 아니야. 나랑 수호 씨 아무 일도 없었어. 그냥 가슴이 답답해서 마사지해 준 것뿐이야.” 애교 누나가 구구절절 설명하자 형수가 피식 웃었다. “내가 뭐라고 한 것도 아닌데, 왜 그렇게 긴장해? 아니면 나 몰래 정말 나쁜 짓이라도 했어?” 나와 애교 누나는 동시에 고개를 저었다. 그와 동시에 당혹스러웠다. ‘내가 감히 형수님 친구를 어떻게 하려 하다니, 만약 형수님이 알면 분명 쫓아낼 거야.’ 그때 애교 누나가 안절부절못하더니 일이 있다는 핑계로 서둘러 집을 나갔다. 형수는 그런 애교 누나의 뒷모습을 보며 멍해 있다가 한참 뒤에 나를 보며 물었다. “수호 씨, 내 친구 어떻게 같아요?” “네?” 형수한테서 갑자기 이런 질문을 받으니 나는 마음이 혼란스러워 말까지 더듬었다. “좋죠. 예쁘고 몸매도 좋고 성격도 좋잖아요.” “그럼 내 친구 꼬시라고 하면 그럴 의향 있어요?” 형수의 말에 나는 놀라움을 감출 수 없었다. 마음도 혼란스러워 무슨 말을 해야 할지 몰랐다. 문제는 형수가 방금 내가 형수 친구를 어떻게 해보려던 걸 발견하고 일부러 떠보는 것일까 봐 걱정되었다. 내가 긴장하고 있을 때, 형수가 내 팔을 잡으며 손등을 톡톡 두드렸다. “긴장할 거 없어요. 솔직히 말하면 돼요.” “형수님, 저 난처하게 하지 마세요. 애교 누나는 형수님 친구인데 제가 어떻게 감히 그런 마음을 품겠어요?” “감히라고요? 아래가 이렇게 단단해졌으면서.” 형수는 내 아래를 흘긋거리며 말했다. 순간 너무 쪽팔리고 난감해 나는 얼른 허리를 숙였다. “와, 사이즈 보통 아니네요.” 내 착각일지 모르겠으나 내 아래를 본 순간 형수의 눈빛이 변했다. 그때 형수가 말을 이었다. “나 농담 아니에요. 애교와 잠자리를 가져요. 형 도와주는 셈 치고.” ‘뭐지? 애교 누나와 자는 게 형과 무슨 상관이지?’ 형수는 나를 소파에 앉히더니 설명하기 시작했다. “동성 씨 회사와 애교의 남편이 현재 사업 파트너거든요. 애교 누나의 남편이 밖에 애인이 있는데 동성 씨한테 사람을 찾아 자기 아내 꼬셔달라고 부탁했대요. 그러면 빨리 이혼할 수 있으니까. 이제 알겠죠?” 나는 연신 고개를 끄덕였다. 알아들은 건 확실하나 이해가 되지 않았다. ‘애교 누나처럼 예쁜 여자를 두고 그 남편은 왜 바람피우는 거지?’ 내가 깊은 생각에 빠져 있을 때 형수가 내 허벅지를 꼬집었다. “무슨 생각을 그렇게 해요?” “아!” 너무 아파 저도 모르게 비명을 지르며 나는 연신 고개를 저었다. “아무것도 아니에요.” “내가 아침에 한 말 기억해요? 남자의 그건 정확한 곳에 써야 해요. 애교 누나의 남편이 반년 동안 애교 누나한테 손끝 하나 대지 않았대요. 그러니까 수호 씨가 조금만 손쓰면 바로 넘어올 거예요. 여자와 자본 적 없죠? 이번이 기회예요.” 형수의 말을 들을수록 나는 얼굴이 빨갛게 달아올랐고, 아랫배에 열기가 몰렸다. 문제는 너무 부끄러우면서도 난감한 부탁이라는 거다. 만약 다른 사람의 부탁이라면 그나마 괜찮았을 텐데. 형수는 내가 꿈쩍도 하지 않자 갑자기 옆으로 바싹 다가왔다. 그 순간 은은한 향기가 내 코끝을 간지럽혔다. 전에 한 번도 형수와 이렇게 가까이 앉은 적 없는데, 지금은 심지어 형수의 온도까지 느껴질 정도라 가슴이 콩닥거리는 한편 긴장했다. “혹시 무서워요? 걱정돼요?” 조심스럽게 묻는 형수의 말에 나는 필사적으로 고개를 끄덕였다. 이건 무서운 정도가 아니라 아주 겁이 나 미칠 지경이다. 여자 친구도 사귀어 본 적 없는 나더러 유부녀를 꼬시라니. 무섭지 않을 리가. 그때 형수가 다시 한번 내 손을 잡으며 한 번도 들은 적 없는 부드러운 목소리로 말했다. “걱정할 거 없어요. 상대는 외로운 유부녀라 마음껏 꼬셔도 돼요. 유부녀를 꼬시는 가장 효과적인 방법이 바로 성욕을 자극하는 거예요.” “성욕이 한번 끓어오르면 끝이 없거든요. 그때가 되면 수호 씨는 아무것도 안 해도 모든 일이 풀릴 거예요. 알았어요?” 나는 건성으로 고개를 끄덕였지만 생각은 이미 다른 데로 날아가 버렸다. 머릿속에는 아침에 들은 장면이 떠올랐고, 형수님의 가슴이 얼마나 매혹적일지 상상했다. 그런데 하필이면 형수가 그걸 보고 말았다. “나 커요?” 갑작스러운 형수의 물음에 나는 바짝 긴장했고, 입이 바싹 말라 넋을 잃은 듯 대답했다. “네.” “만지고 싶어요?” 순간 피가 거꾸로 솟는 기분이 들었고 머리가 윙윙 울려 아무 말도 할 수 없었다. 그때, 형수가 내 쪽으로 갑자기 바싹 다가와 가슴을 내 몸에 눌렀다. 그 순간, 나는 바보라도 된 것처럼 머리가 온통 백지장이 되어버렸다. “그러고 싶으면 싶은 거죠. 민망해할 거 뭐 있어요? 이건 인간의 본능적인 욕구예요. 풀 때는 풀어야 한다고요.” 결국 나는 참지 못하고 이를 악물었다. “만지고 싶어요. 그것도 아주 많아.” “하하하, 잘했어요. 마음이 시키는 대로 해 봐요. 그럼 무서울 거 없잖아요. 하지만 그 욕구는 애교 누나한테 풀어요. 형수인 내가 아니라. 알겠어요?” 순간 기분이 나락으로 떨어졌다. ‘난 또 형수님이 나한테 몸 바치려 하는 줄 알았는데 어떻게 대담해지는지 가르쳐주는 거였잖아.’ ‘하지만 오히려 좋아. 내가 만약 형수와 무슨 일이라도 생기면 형한테 미안해서 어떡해?’ 나는 더 이상 참을 수 없어 배가 아프다는 핑계를 대고 얼른 화장실로 달려갔다. 방금 애교 누나를 도와 마사지할 때부터 참기 힘들었는데, 형수가 나를 건드리기까지 하니 아래가 터질 것만 같았다. 물론 형수가 손장난도 적당히 하면 몸에 좋고 지나치면 몸이 상한다고 했지만, 이 순간 더 이상 참을 수 없었다. 하지만 뜻밖에도 목욕 타월을 올려놓는 선반 위에서 여자 팬티 한 장을 발견했다. 깊이 생각하지 않아도 알 수 있었다. 이 팬티의 주인이 형수라는 걸. 그 순간 그 팬티를 가져야 할지 말아야 할지 수없이 고민했다. 이내 눈을 감고 마음을 진정하려고 했으나, 하필이면 머릿속에 아침에 봤던 장면이 떠올랐다. 심지어 마음속에서 악마의 속삭임이 나를 유혹했다. ‘손장난하는 것뿐인데, 그건 괜찮잖아. 이건 쉽게 얻을 수 없는 기회라고, 놓치면 앞으로는 기회도 없어.’ 결국 나는 그 속삭임에 넘어가 저도 모르게 팬티를 향해 손을 뻗었다. 제4화 팬티는 부드럽고 나른한 데다 심지어 형수의 냄새까지 배어 있었다. 손에 감각이 느껴지자 저도 모르게 아침에 몰래 엿들었던 소리가 뇌리에 재생되며 점차 흥분되었다. ‘형수와 뭘 진짜로 할 수는 없지만 팬티로 상상하는 건 괜찮잖아.’ 나는 속으로 이렇게 중얼거리며 벨트를 풀고 팬티를 밀어 넣었다. 하지만 내 손이 아래에 닿으려 할 때 노크 소리가 들렸고, 너무 놀란 나머지 나는 그대로 뿜을 뻔했다. ‘집에 나와 형수님 둘뿐이니 노크한 사람은 형수님이겠지?’ 나는 서둘러 그 팬티를 꺼내 목욕 타월 선반 위에 올려다 놓고 나서 조심스럽게 말했다. “형수님, 왜 그러세요?” “수호 씨, 안에서 무슨 나쁜 짓 했어요?” ‘이런 말을 묻는다고?’ “네? 아, 아니요.” 나는 찔려서 말을 더듬었다. “그런데 왜 그렇게 떨어요?” 형수의 한마디에 나는 가슴이 철렁해 식은땀을 줄줄 흘렸다. ‘형수가 아무리 개방적이라고 해도 본인과 나는 안 된다고 명확히 말했는데, 만약 내가 형수의 팬티를 가지고 그런 짓을 한 걸 들키면 내가 본인 말을 안 듣는다고 생각해 쫓아내면 어떡하지?’ 하지만 이 상황을 어떻게 설명해야 할지 몰라 나는 애써 설명했다. “정말 아무것도 아니에요. 배가 아파서 식은땀이 난 것뿐이에요.” “갑자기 식은땀이 왜 나요? 혹시 어디 아파요?” 형수는 이내 나를 걱정했다. “저도 모르겠어요. 그냥 좀 불편해요.” “문 좀 열어봐요. 어디 봐봐요.” “이, 이제 괜찮아요.” “내외할 거 뭐 있어요? 수호 씨 내 눈에는 아직 애예요. 그러니 얼른 문 열어요.” 그 말을 들은 순간 실망감이 휘몰아쳤다. ‘내가 형수님 눈에 고작 애였다니. 어쩐지 내 앞에서 거침없더라니. 나는 그런 상대로 한 번도 생각하지 않았나 보네.’ 나는 허리를 숙여 화장실 문을 열었다. 형수는 들어오자마자 나를 보는 게 아니라 목욕 타월을 놓은 선반 위를 확인했다. 나는 마음이 찔려 형수의 눈을 마주칠 수 없었다. 그때 형수가 선반 쪽으로 걸어가더니 나한테 웃으며 물었다. “혹시 내 팬티 건드렸어요?” “아, 아니요.” 나는 다급하게 고개를 흔들었다. “정말이에요? 그런데 얼굴은 왜 그렇게 빨개요? 솔직히 말해요. 방금 내 팬티로 나쁜 짓 하려고 했는데 내가 방해한 거죠? 그래서 내가 들어오는 걸 무서워했던 거고?” ‘뭐야? 천리안이라도 지녔나? 어떻게 저렇게 귀신같이 다 알지?’ 형수는 나를 위아래로 훑더니 내가 허리를 구부린 채 일어나지 못하자 의심의 눈초리로 바라봤다. “똑바로 서요.” 형수는 나를 지그시 바라보며 말했다. 그런 형수의 명을 나는 어길 수 없었다. 하지만 내가 몸을 곧게 편 순간 난감한 상태인 것이 바로 들켜버렸다. 형수도 그걸 본 게 틀림없다. 나는 눈을 감고 형수의 눈을 피했다. 하지만 형수가 천천히 내 앞에 무릎을 꿇는 게 고스란히 느껴졌다. 그 순간 가슴이 튀어나올 것만 같았다. 문제는 형수가 뭘 하려는지 몰라 도저히 모르겠다는 거였다. 너무 야릇한 자세에 나는 저도 모르게 이런저런 상상을 하며 천천히 눈을 떴다. 그랬더니 형수가 멍하니 내 그곳을 바라보며 감탄하는 게 아니겠는가? “동성 씨가 수호 씨처럼 이랬으면 얼마나 좋을까요?” 동경이 가득한 형수의 눈빛에 내 머리는 순간 백지장이 되어버렸고, 가슴은 미친 듯이 요동쳐 무슨 말을 해야 할지 몰랐다. 그런데 형수는 그곳을 한참 바라보더니 다시 일어났다. 나는 얼른 손으로 그곳을 막았다. “아직은 욕구를 풀지 마요. 그래야 애교 누나를 공략할 동력이 생기죠.” 형수는 말하면서 갑자기 나에게 바싹 다가왔다. “사실 나 일부러 이러는 거예요. 이러면 안 되는 거 아는데 동성 씨를 위해서 어쩔 수 없어요. 수호 씨가 너무 부끄럼을 타니까 우선 생각을 오픈해야죠. 손 치워요. 나도 산전수전 겪은 사람인데, 이런 걸 못 겪어봤을까요?” ‘그래도 이 방법은 너무 남다른 거 아닌가? 목숨이 남아나질 않는다고.’ 나는 속으로 아우성쳤다. “나와요. 애교한테 전화할 거니까 같이 쇼핑하면서 두 사람 이어줄게요. 오늘 애교가 수호 씨를 집에 초대할지 기대되네요. 얼른 해결해야 수호 씨 형네 회사도 얼른 제자리 찾을 수 있을 거예요.” 형수는 말을 마치자마자 허리를 흔들며 밖으로 나가 버렸다. 홀로 남겨진 나 역시 그제야 화장실에서 느릿느릿 걸어 나왔지만, 손은 온통 땀으로 젖었다. 너무 참고 있었던 탓이었다. 형수한테 매번 이런 식으로 자극당하고 제대로 풀 수 없으니 미칠 것만 같았다. 하지만 형을 위해서 참을 수밖에 없다. 형수는 소파에 앉아 애교 누나에게 전화했다. “안 나가겠다고? 왜? 안돼, 나랑 나가자. 안 나가면 수호 씨더러 너 안아서 내려오라고 한다?” “뭐? 내가 너무하다고? 그래, 나 원래 이래. 어떡할 건데?” “그래, 그럼 약속한 거다? 5분 뒷문 앞에서 기다릴게.” 형수는 전화를 끊자 나를 향해 웃으며 말했다. “해결했어요. 가서 옷 갈아입어요. 이따가 운전해야 하니까. 기억해요, 자꾸 뒤쪽을 봐야 해요, 서프라이즈가 있을 테니까.” “네.” 나는 짤막하게 대답하고 곧바로 옷 갈아입으러 갔다. 그러면서 내심 형수가 말한 서프라이즈가 뭘까 기대했다. 내가 이내 옷을 갈아입고 형수와 함께 문 앞에서 기다렸다. 그랬더니 얼마 지나지 않아 애교 누나가 나왔다. 붉은 원피스는 애교 누나의 하얀 피부를 더 희게 만들었고, V넥이라 가슴골이 훤히 드러났다. 그걸 본 순간 나는 넋을 잃고 말았다. ‘애교 누나의 몸매가 좋을 줄은 알았지만 이 정도일 줄이야.’ 애교 누나는 일부러 내 눈을 피하며 형수의 팔짱을 끼더니 내 앞으로 지나갔다. 그런 반응에 나는 답답하고 속상했다. 아까 마사지할 때만 해도 분명 살갑게 대했는데, 왜 갑자기 이렇게 차가워졌는지. 심지어 내 눈도 안 마주치고 있다. ‘설마 내가 너무 무례해서 화났나?’ 우리는 곧장 계단을 내려갔다. 그 사이 애교 누나는 형수와 웃고 떠들었지만 나는 혼자 꿔다 놓은 보따리처럼 옆에 덩그러니 서 있었다. 그게 너무 답답하고 괴로웠지만 차에 타자마자 갑자기 뒤를 돌아보면 서프라이즈가 있을 거라던 형수의 말이 떠올랐다. 그 서프라이즈가 무엇인지 궁금하여 나는 계속 백미러로 뒤를 힐끔거렸다. 하지만 형수는 애교 누나와 웃고 떠들기만 할 뿐, 기대했던 서프라이즈는 없었다. “형수님, 우리 어디 가요?” 길을 물어본다는 걸 핑계 삼아 또 한 번 뒤돌아봤지만 여전히 서프라이즈는 없었다. 하지만 애교 누나와 눈빛이 마주친 순간, 애교 누나의 얼굴이 빨갛게 달아오르더니 이내 시선을 피했다. 그건 당황하고 초조해하는 눈빛이 틀림없었다. 그 순간 내 가슴은 철렁 내려앉았다. 애교 누나는 지금 화나 있는 게 아니라 나와 썸을 이어갈지 고민하는 거였다. 그걸 인지하자 나는 기쁨을 주체할 수 없었다. 그건 애교 누나도 나한테 마음이 있다는 뜻이었으니. “광화문 광장으로 가요.” “네.” 형수의 말에 나는 짤막하게 대답했다. 그러고는 곧장 핸드폰을 꺼내 길을 검색하고는 시동을 걸었다. 차가 정체 구간에 이르자 좀처럼 속도가 나지 않아 나는 다시 뒤를 흘끔거렸다. 그리고 그 순간 애교 누나가 팬티를 내리는 모습을 봐버렸다.		남성 소설 모음		124	https://www.facebook.com/61560317043692/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683932	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/12/25, 9:07 PM	1739147240	1749780429		2524																										redtgb.com	Learn more			IMAGE	🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉		https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=17966&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}}			3.4292496556255E+14	Random Reading	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474761049_2840475519466564_8605170857121929512_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Qx0tjTvaVYIQ7kNvgG-FAKM&_nc_oc=AdhtiopYJKURplCJZDo1zT2m5yKL7KOkD15m-e8ZiMAkRP1JL__jOaseLpEKVUQ8von8IyRML-L298lKhThzfx-y&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYDY2WrCc0M5yOsfCeWkeP4t-DSqlXgh7qPCu_XuSIxlJg&oe=67AF0C0E	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		I got home after a long day, and my parents were waiting for me in the living room. "Catherine, sit down. We need to talk," my father said, looking quite agitated. "What's going on, Dad?" I asked tiredly. I had worked all day, gone to college at night, and upon getting home, all I wanted was to take a shower and crash into bed. But that wasn't possible. "Catherine, your cousin's wedding invitation has arrived," my mother said. "That little tramp is not my cousin!" I snapped, already getting angry. "Catherine, she is your cousin," my mother insisted. "You need to stop this childish behavior. Melissa already hit her and caused a scene here at home. Enough! She's my sister's daughter, which makes her your cousin." "I'm sorry, Mom, but she means nothing to me," I tried to stay calm. "She slept with my boyfriend in my bed. That's not something she should do." I had been dating Claude for four years; he was my first boyfriend, and I found him in my bed, in my room, sleeping with Kelly, my cousin! I was in shock. Of course, Melissa, my best friend, went after them. Since then, things had been tensed at home because my parents insisted it was silly and that I should act as if nothing had happened and go back to being around my cousin. "He was wrong, Catherine, since he was your boyfriend," my mother argued. "Kelly, poor thing, was seduced. He dishonored her, now he's marrying her so she won't be talked about badly in town." "Oh, Mom! Spare me! The whole town knows Kelly is a shameless woman..." I lost my patience. "Catherine, watch your language!" my father scolded me. "Look, if you don't want to be around Kelly, fine, but you're going to this wedding. And enough with this rude behavior." "I'm what?" I thought I had heard wrong. "You're going to your cousin's wedding, Catherine. That's an order! We're your parents, and you'll obey," my mother spoke angrily at me as if I were the one in the wrong. "I'm sorry, Mom, but I won't! I follow your rules, I'm a good daughter, but this time I can't. I was the one who was wronged! I have every right not to want to be the family joke anymore," I said, already crying. "ENOUGH, CATHERINE!" my father shouted, startling me. "You're going to this wedding, and that's final." "But, Dad..." "I don't want to hear it, Catherine! It's important to your mother to keep peace in the family. So you're going, period," my father said, leaving no room for argument. I spent the night crying in my room. The next day, I told Melissa everything. She wasted no time and arranged invitations to a masquerade ball, a gala event. She told my parents it would be crucial for my career since the city's most important businesspeople would be there. I could make valuable connections, and our professors had promised to introduce us to various entrepreneurs who could open doors for our professional future. At first, my parents weren't entirely convinced, but Melissa's parents talked to them and persuaded them that it would be an excellent opportunity for my future. So they agreed that I should take advantage of it. "Catherine, you can't say no to me! I've already bought the tickets and masks, and I even convinced your parents that this is a super important event for your professional future, which was such hard work. This party is going to be incredible, and you're not going to miss it!" Melissa looked at me with puppy dog eyes, clasping her hands together as if begging. I was sitting at my desk at work in the middle of a Thursday afternoon, between taking messages and making calls, when Mel showed up with coffee, chocolate muffins, and this persistence about getting me to agree to go to the masquerade ball, which was the biggest annual event in our city. "Oh, Mel, how is it that I can never say no to you? Alright, I'll go!" I agreed to go to the ball, but I still wasn't sure. Either way, I was going to sleep at Mel's house to avoid the wedding, but I wasn't planning on going to the party. However, Melissa kept pushing until she convinced me to go. On Saturday, we got ready at her place. "Wow, girl! You look absolutely stunning!" She handed me a beautiful golden mask, intricately designed like lace that covered up to my nose, and I put it on. I was wearing a shimmering red satin dress, and the mask matched perfectly. "So, are we ready?" "Yes, we're ready," I replied and grabbed my purse. "Oh, I forgot my perfume." "No problem, you can use my mom's new perfume. She won't mind." When Fred, Mel's boyfriend, saw us, he smiled, gave Mel a kiss, and said: "Girls, you look gorgeous! I think you'll leave this party with a new boyfriend, Cat." "No boyfriend, Fred. Actually, I think I'd better stay, I'm not in the party mood. Please, Mel, let me stay?" Chapter 2 There was no way out - my friend dragged me to the ball. As soon as we got in, Mel pulled us to the bar and whispered in my ear: "It's an open bar tonight, so you're going to drink until all that sadness washes away!" Mel handed me two tequila shots while holding two more in her hands. "Let's down these!" We knocked back the tequila, and Fred was already handing each of us a cosmopolitan. Melissa dragged me to the dance floor, and I was actually having fun. When a slow song started playing, Fred and Mel began slow dancing together. I took that as my cue to head to the buffet, but I didn't make it there. I felt someone grab my hand, and when I turned around, there was a man in a black mask smiling at me - and what a smile! He kissed my hand and pulled me close, whispering in my ear with a husky voice: "Surely the most beautiful woman in the room won't deny me a dance, will she?" "And why not? Let's dance," I smiled back at him. It was impossible to resist that seductive husky voice and that gorgeous crooked smile! He was tall with broad shoulders, had a charming smile and blue eyes - so blue they were almost violet. He had sinfully tempting lips, brown hair, and when he pulled me by the waist, I placed my hands on his chest and could feel he was a wall of well-defined muscle. Although the mask concealed his face, he was very charming and enchanting. "I've been watching you since you arrived," this mysterious man whispered in my ear. "You're so beautiful!" "You're kind. But you're not from around here, are you?" He had a powerful presence, radiating authority. "No. A friend convinced me to come to this party." "Looks like we have something in common - my friends convinced me to come too." "Lucky me!" "And why's that?" I smiled. "Because I was captivated the moment I saw you. You're stunning." As he whispered in my ear, I got goosebumps, feeling my face flush and my body tingle - he truly had me enchanted. "Even with the mask?" "Even with the mask! You're too beautiful." "You're such a charmer." "You think I'm charming?" "You know you are. And handsome too." "I'm glad you like what you see." "And what do you do for a living, handsome?" - I felt a bit dizzy, not sure if it was from the drink or the delicious cologne that man was wearing. I ended up stumbling over my own feet. "Are you okay?" "I think I need some air." "Come with me." - He pulled me into a dark hallway that led to an emergency exit and started fanning my face. - "I really want to kiss you. May I?" - I nodded yes. He looked into my eyes, held the back of my neck, and our lips met. It started slow but deepened; he pressed me against the wall, and the kiss intensified even more, almost taking our breath away. When he broke the kiss so we could breathe, we looked into each other's eyes - it was like throwing gasoline on fire. He ran his hand down my waist to my leg and pulled my leg up to his waist. I was completely surrendered by then, feeling his body against mine. I went crazy with desire and pulled him closer, wrapping my leg around his waist. "You're a great kisser!" - I smiled at him and felt my whole body tingle. "Oh, beautiful, you're incredible. I want you so badly, here, right now!" - he said between kisses and slipped his hand under my dress, pulling it up and reaching my underwear. I was on fire when he put his hand inside my underwear and yelled. - "Oh! So delicious! So hot, so wet!" - He said and kissed me harder while unzipping his pants. With a quick movement, like someone who had done this before, he tore my underwear and caressed my entrance, as if asking for permission. He looked into my eyes again and asked: "What do you want me to do?" "I want you inside me now!" I responded shamelessly, already panting with desire. I couldn't resist those eyes and that husky voice. I'd never been like this before - normally, I would have pulled away the moment he grabbed my hand, but tonight I had promised myself to have fun and live in the moment if someone interesting came along. And that's exactly what I was doing, living in the moment. Hearing me, he entered me slowly, watching as I leaned my head against the wall and savored every inch of him - and he was huge. He took the opportunity to scatter kisses along my neck. When he was fully inside, he paused and whispered between kisses in my ear: "Now I'm going to move." He pulled out only to thrust back in with full force this time, and it was incredible. I was completely lost and driven wild by his movements as he moved in and out of me frantically. We lost control and gave ourselves over completely, as if nothing else existed around us. I felt a haze in my eyes as my climax began to build, and I moaned softly in his ear. At that moment, he seemed to go crazy, lifting my other leg to his waist as I wrapped them around him. Kissing me intensely, he thrust even harder into me - it was heaven on earth. I came again, even more intensely than before, leaving me breathless. As I was coming, he whispered that he was close to his limit feeling me pulse around him, and soon I felt his hot release inside me. We stayed there against that wall, completely breathless, his forehead resting against mine. While kissing me, he slowly withdrew, and I was thoroughly satisfied - as Melissa would say. I smiled and he looked at me, gave me a soft kiss and said: "You're truly amazing!" He gently lowered my legs until my feet touched the ground, fixed my dress, adjusted his pants, and hugged me. It was so intimate, so affectionate - despite the wildness of our encounter and the intensity with which we'd given in to each other, he was still gentle with me. I'd never had such an incredible experience, but I'd only ever been with my ex until now. And my ex had never cared about hugging me afterward, or worried about my pleasure - for him, it was just about getting in and out until he was satisfied. So having a man care about me, about my pleasure, take care of me - it was new, and amazingly so. He kissed my neck and whispered in my ear: "So, beautiful, I still don't know your name." It took me seconds to process and finally realize that I'd just slept with a complete stranger whose name I didn't even know. Just as I was about to speak, he pulled his phone from his pocket and asked for a minute to answer it. He stepped away slightly and I could only hear him raising his voice saying: "What did you say?" At that moment, the stranger ran off as if he'd forgotten about me, or as if he was just running away from the woman he'd quickly hooked up with at the party. Of course, Catherine, you're an idiot! But so what? I was just having fun too, and I didn't even know who the guy was, and he didn't know who I was. All good. I pulled myself together, looked in vain for my underwear - no idea where he'd thrown it - and left that hallway. I went back to the table and found Mel and Fred making out. They soon stopped and focused on me: "Mel, I think I found the Big Bad Wolf!" I laughed, and she laughed with me. "When we get home, I want to know everything!" "Of course you do!" I replied with sparkling eyes. "Prince, I think we can go now. What do you think, Cat?" "I'm ready whenever you are!" I said, downing a glass of water. "Let's go then, girls!" Fred said and led us to the exit. We'd barely gotten home when Mel started demanding: "Tell me everything - who is he, how it went, how it didn't go, everything." I laughed and told her everything. When I finished speaking, my friend was staring at me open-mouthed and asked: "You guys used protection, right?" My heart started racing! We hadn't used protection. I shook my head no at her; I was in shock realizing how careless I'd been. She immediately tried to calm me down: "No, Cat, calm down. I'm sure nothing will come of it. But you should get some tests done to make sure everything's okay. I'm going to the kitchen to make us some tea. Don't freak out!" Chapter 3 On Monday during lunch, I met Mel. She handed me a small bag from a fancy store, and I looked at her, confused. "My mom asked me to give this to you. She said it's perfect for you and doesn't suit her," Mel said with a big smile. I opened the bag, and inside was the perfume I had worn to the ball. A huge smile spread across my face. I loved that perfume, and it was part of the best night of my life. I just hoped that my best night hadn't left me with an STD as a souvenir. With that thought, I thanked Mel and told her I'd call her mom later, then mentioned I wanted to call the lab to schedule some tests. I called the laboratory and was informed that I needed a doctor's prescription to get the tests covered by health insurance. Thank God the company provided health insurance for employees because otherwise, I wouldn't know what to do. My salary wasn't high, and what little was left after covering college expenses went to helping at home, since my mom didn't work outside the house and my dad didn't make much as a driver. So I made a doctor's appointment, but the earliest available slot was two weeks away, and I waited anxiously. The more days passed, the more nervous I became, though Mel did everything to calm me down. On the scheduled date, she went to the doctor's with me. With the list of tests in hand, she personally scheduled the lab work and insisted on accompanying me. Three weeks had passed since the party when I finally got the tests done. The results came back five days later, and I returned to the doctor. Of course, Mel was with me. The doctor checked the results and looked me in the eyes: "Miss Catherine, your health is excellent. You're healthy. But from now on, you'll need to take better care of yourself." I breathed a sigh of relief, but was I really about to get lectured by the doctor for having unprotected bedlife with a stranger? Well, I deserved it - not using protection was silly, I could have caught a disease. And then he continued: "Congratulations, you're conceived! I'm going to refer you to an OB-GYN for prenatal care..." I didn't hear anything else, just the blood pulsing in my ears. I couldn't believe this! conceived? How would I explain this? It's not possible. Me, of all people, the perfect goody-two-shoes who never stepped out of line, who always considered the consequences before doing anything, who was always responsible - the first time I let rationality slide, I ended up conceived and didn't even know who the father was! Mel held my hand and kept repeating: "Calm down, Cat, everything will be okay!" How could everything be okay? I didn't even know who the father was. I would have to tell my parents, their only daughter would break their hearts. They would be disappointed, hate me, and kick me out of the house. How could I explain that I don't even know what the father of my child looks like? I was already hyperventilating. Suddenly, I felt the doctor taking my hand and speaking calmly: "Easy now, dear! The situation, from what I can see, isn't ideal, but you can't get this nervous, it will harm your baby. Now you have to take care of yourself for the baby's sake. I'm sure the people who love you will support and help you. But you need to calm down because only you can ensure this baby develops healthily and is born strong. Do you understand me?" I looked at that short, white-haired, slightly chubby gentleman, with his glasses perched on the tip of his nose, and nodded positively. Somehow he calmed me down a bit, maybe because his eyes sparkled with a kindness and understanding that we rarely see these days. The doctor asked his secretary to bring me some chamomile tea, and while I drank it and tried to calm down, he gave all the information to Melissa, who listened attentively. We left the office and Melissa took me to a diner, saying we needed to eat something. As soon as I sat down, I felt the tears falling. My friend hugged me and told me once again that I wasn't alone. I looked at her and said: "The only thing I'm sure of right now is that I want you and Fred to be my child's godparents because I know you'll support them and give them lots of love." Her eyes sparkled, and she burst into tears, responding between sobs: "I'll be the best godmother in the world and I'll always be close to our baby! And I'm sure Fred will be very happy too!" She assured me she would always be by my side, made it clear that I wouldn't go through anything alone, and that she would be with me when I talked to my parents. My parents... oh! I started thinking and decided I wouldn't hide it from them for even a day; I would tell them that very night. I wouldn't go to college, I would go home to talk to them. Mel immediately supported me and said: "Let's go then, I'm with you!" When we arrived at my house, my parents were startled, and my mom came right over, worried: "Girls, didn't you go to class today? Is everything okay?" "Not really, Mom. I need to talk to you both." My parents immediately realized it was something very serious. We all sat in the living room and I told them what was happening, admitting I had been irresponsible by hooking up with a stranger at the party. I obviously didn't go into details, but I made it clear that I couldn't find my child's father again. The disappointment in their eyes was evident. My mother was sobbing uncontrollably, saying I was ruined. My father hadn't said anything yet. Seeing how upset my mother was, Melissa quickly went to the kitchen and came back with a glass of sugar water for her. Melissa always gives sugar water to nervous people, saying it calms them down - I never understood that. Finally, my father spoke: "You made a huge mistake and there's no going back." My parents were very simple people. My father was a tall, strong man, and my mother was an older version of me, but both had great character and solid principles they always made sure to pass on to me. Hearing my father emphasize that I had messed up made my heart ache even more. I started crying and said: "I know, Dad, I was irresponsible. But there's nothing I can do now. I'll drop out of college to raise my child. And I'm going to pack my bags..." "Pack your bags? You're very mistaken if you think you're leaving this house like that. You made a mistake, and you disappointed us, but we love you, we'll get through this and we'll help you. You're not alone, my daughter! And neither is this child!" My father said this and my heart filled with hope. "But Dad, I brought shame to you..." "You're not the first and won't be the last single mother in this world. We would have liked things to be different for you, not so difficult. You've always been so responsible! But if this is how it is, we'll face it together. You won't leave college - more than ever, you need to grow in life to take care of your child. You're going to be a single mother, your responsibility is huge. We'll help you, and even though it will be difficult, everything will work out." Melissa was already crying and quickly spoke to my parents: "Mr. Anthony, Mrs. Selina, you can count on me, I'll help with everything! Besides, I'm this baby's godmother, Cat is like a sister to me, and I'll always be around." My parents looked at her gratefully. I looked at those three feeling completely blessed to have them in my life, full of love for them and experiencing a totally new feeling for that little being still growing inside me, whose existence I had just discovered! As difficult as being a single mother would be, that night at the ball was the best night of my life. I could never forget those violet-blue eyes looking at me with adoration during our furtive encounter and everything my body experienced that night. I would always have that sweet memory with me. The following months were difficult. I kept the dress, shoes, mask, and perfume that Mel's mother gave me in a box. On difficult days, I would open that box and relive that night in my memory. Although I had a peaceful pregnancy, people's comments and cruelty were hard to bear. To make matters worse, after they got married, my ex and my cousin moved in with her parents, who lived on the same street as us. They made sure to humiliate me with nasty comments whenever they saw me and spread throughout the neighborhood that I didn't know who my child's father was and that I was a loose woman, which was why Claude had left me. I wanted to end them! Kelly's mother, who was my mother's sister, never missed a chance to come to our house and torment us, saying how fortunate it was that her daughter wasn't like me, that she was a good girl who had married a decent man. She seemed to have forgotten that she had stolen my boyfriend and slept with him in my bed. But I swallowed it all; it wasn't worth arguing with these people, and I didn't want to transmit negative feelings to my child. As the days went by, I loved that baby more and more. I had no idea such love could exist. Everything I did, I did for him. I would protect him from everything; I would give my life to him. And surprisingly, during the whole time of carrying with a baby, everything seemed to flow in my favor, things were falling into place and working out. My boss was great, understood my situation, and even gave me a small raise, which was a huge help! Mel and Fred showered me with attention, they were in love with their godchild even before knowing if it would be a girl or boy. They insisted on buying everything for the nursery, which turned out beautiful. Mel accompanied me to all appointments and every test, never missing anything. She even organized two baby showers - one at the company and another at college. My child would come into the world surrounded by love. I found out I was having a boy and decided to name him Peter. And so it was. Peter was born healthy, with a pair of huge violet-blue eyes that would never let me forget the night that changed my life, but was also the best night I'd ever had! I would never forget that man! My son was surrounded by love from the first moment. My parents were enchanted by their grandson. Mel and Fred came to our house every day to see their godson and check how we were doing. Mel was always there supporting me in everything. Her parents also came to visit Peter and said they would be honorary grandparents since they considered me their daughter too, which I found beautiful. They also surrounded me with care. They insisted on giving the stroller as a gift, and the day Peter was born, they came to the maternity ward with a huge basket of flowers and welcome balloons. After my maternity leave ended, my son stayed in my mother's care while I was at work and college. I worked hard and devoted all my time not spent at college or work to my son. With the help of my parents and my son's godparents, I managed everything and didn't miss any semester in college, graduating alongside my friend Melissa. It was a great moment for me and my family. With my diploma in hand, I would now pursue a better future, with the firm purpose that my son would never lack anything. Chapter 4 When I graduated, Peter was already two years old. By then, he was walking everywhere, always clinging to grandma - which was his first word. He was a beautiful boy with straight black hair, fair skin, a cute little upturned nose, and those huge violet eyes that made me sigh. He was my sunshine! And now I would have more time for him. After graduation, my boss called me in for a chat. He was an excellent boss and said he was very happy with my work at the company, but he knew I deserved to go far, so I should look for a job in my field, and he would understand. He assured me that my job at the construction company would be mine for as long as I wanted, and if I left and things didn't work out, I would always have a place to come back to. However, he advised that I should seek something in my field of study to provide a better future for my son. I was very touched by this and accepted his good advice. I told Melissa, and she immediately said she would talk to her father about reaching out to some contacts. It didn't take long before Mr. Oliver Larson, Mel's father, called me to his office and handed me a card, saying: "Catherine, I know you're an excellent girl and a good professional. I spoke with a friend, and he arranged an interview for you at Miller Group. It's for the position of CEO's assistant. If you get this job, you'll be working in your field at a global company. It's an excellent position, but it's not here in Bellwood. You would have to move to Paradise Port. I know it's a huge step, but I think you should consider it - it will be excellent for you. Anyway, send an email to the address on the card with your response, either declining the position or accepting the virtual interview." "Mr. Larson, I don't have words to thank you! You've always been so good to me! Miller Group is one of the largest business conglomerates in the country! Working there is a dream! I'll definitely accept the interview, and if I have to move, I will. I know it will be a great opportunity," I said with conviction. It wouldn't be bad to get away from those nasty family members, especially now that "queen" Kelly was conceived and her mother decided to ask for all of Peter's things for the child of that dishonest couple! Thankfully, my mom told her that was absurd, but it wouldn't matter anyway since I had already given everything Peter had outgrown to an acquaintance who was conceived. My mom had been very upset with her sister, as she was always dismissing my son, always referring to him as the fatherless boy, which really hurt my mom. Leaving this city, I'll only regret leaving my parents and friends behind, but I know they'll support me once again. I thanked Mr. Larson and left the office. When I got to my desk, I spoke with my boss, another Mr. Larson, but since he didn't like being called that, I addressed him by his first name: "Aldo, your brother got me an interview at Miller Group." He smiled: "I know, he just called me. I think you should grab this opportunity. If it doesn't work out, you can always come back." I smiled at him and immediately sent an email to schedule the interview. I quickly received confirmation that the interview would be the next day at ten in the morning, and since I had already taken the initiative to send my resume, the interview would be brief. That night at home, I talked to my parents, who understood, even though they were worried about how I would manage to raise a child alone in another city and got teary-eyed about being far from their grandson. They supported me as always and were happy about the opportunity I received. I asked them not to tell anyone. When Mel arrived - she came every day to see her godson - I told her everything, and she helped me prepare for the next day. At the time of the interview, I went to the meeting room at my workplace; my boss had given me permission. I sat down and waited for the call. I was interviewed by a very kind and intelligent woman, Mrs. Mariana Taylor. It was very pleasant; we talked for two hours. She gave me all the information about the position, salary, and benefits. At the end, she said: "Catherine, you're hired! You'll be replacing me since I'm taking a director position at the London branch, so you'll be taking over my position here. I'd like you to start as soon as possible because I'm leaving in ten days and would like to hand everything over to you before I go. And I'd rather not reschedule my departure. When can you start?" "I just need my boss to release me, but I think I can be there on Monday." - it was already Friday, would Aldo agree to release me today? "Perfect. You can send me an email confirmation after you talk to him. Do you have any questions?" "No, ma'am. Everything is clear." "Great! Welcome to Miller Group. I'm sure you'll do very well. I'll see you on Monday." She ended the call, and my heart was racing - I had done it. The job was great, the salary even better, and I would have chances to progress. It was a dream. But now it was time to rush and sort everything out. I immediately went to talk to my boss. He was happy about it, called accounting, and had them process my settlement right away. After that, he let me go, saying I would always have a place to come back if needed, but he knew I would do very well. I thanked him for everything and left. I sent the confirmation email to Mrs. Taylor, saying I would be at the company at eight on Monday morning, and went straight to talk to Mel and her father - I had to thank them. And that's when Mel surprised me: "Did you think you were going to take my godson away just like that? No way! My father got me an interview at Lynx World in Paradise Port. I'm moving with you, and we'll live together. What do you think?" This was perfect! I was overjoyed, but quickly asked: "Mel, what about Fred?" "Fred has already requested a transfer to the Paradise Port branch at his company; he'll have better opportunities there too. He's coming in fifteen days. Friend, it's a new life for all three of us." I was so happy. Mel had orchestrated everything. Fred would drive us there, and she would take care of Peter while I worked until we found a daycare. She already had three daycares to visit, and her father had already made available a furnished apartment in the city for us. It was too good to be true; I was even scared. Noticing this, Mel nudged me and said: "Learn to accept the good things life offers you!" I smiled at her, and we went to my parents' house. It was time to break the news and say goodbye. Paradise Port is on the other side of the country, so we wouldn't see each other for a while. My parents were happy until I said I would leave the next morning - then the farewell became sad. It was hard to leave them behind, but it was necessary. With the salary I would receive, I could help them now. That was good. The next morning, Fred and Mel arrived right on time. Mel's father had given her a pickup truck as a gift, which made moving our stuff much easier. Fred loaded everything into the truck, and off we went - it would be a full day on the road. We arrived in Paradise Port late Saturday night. Peter was exhausted but had enjoyed himself immensely during the trip - everything was new and exciting to him. We got settled in, ordered some food, and after eating, went to bed. On Sunday, we explored the city to get our bearings. Paradise Port was a huge, modern industrial city on the coast. Its port attracted lots of business, making it a first-world urban center. The apartment where we would be living was close to one of the daycares Mel had contacted, which was great. It wasn't far from the company either - I could get there in twenty minutes by subway. The apartment was beautiful, with a modern design, great ventilation, and huge windows that let in plenty of natural light. That evening, we dropped Fred off at the airport and headed home to rest. The next day would be a big one - I would be starting my new job, while Mel had her virtual interview and would schedule a meeting with the director of the daycare near our apartment to visit and talk. I tucked my son into bed; he was worn out from all the fun he'd had today. As I watched him sleeping peacefully, I felt confident that we would have a really good life here. Peter now had his own room, and Mel and I had planned to buy some things to make it feel more personal and give it our own touch. I grabbed the baby monitor and went to my room. I opened one of my boxes and started organizing everything. When I opened the last box, I took out the box containing my memories from the ball night. I opened it, ran my hand over that beautiful dress, and sighed once again. I picked up the perfume and thought, "Why not?" Starting tomorrow, I would wear this perfume every day - my salary was good, and when this bottle ran out, I could buy another. I put the box away, left the perfume on the dresser, and went to bed full of expectations for this new life that was opening up before me. Chapter 5 I showed up at the company at 8:00 a.m. Mrs. Taylor gave me a warm welcome and introduced me to everyone, and they were all very kind. The boss wasn't there - he was traveling and would return at the end of the week. The office was beautiful, very modern, decorated in white with stainless steel and green accents, managing to be both professional and welcoming. It was elegant, and I really liked it. I was particularly glad I had chosen to wear a black suit with a dark green silk blouse underneath and black heels. I would need to dress elegantly every day now, after all, I would be working directly with the company president. Mid-morning, I received a message from Mel saying she had managed to schedule an appointment with the director of the daycare near our apartment during lunch hour. I explained the situation to Mrs. Taylor and asked if it would be possible to leave during that time, assuring her I would be back on schedule. "So you have a child. How old is he?" she asked with a smile. "He's two years old. He's a very clever little boy. He wasn't planned, but he's the reason for my life!" "What's his name?" "Peter." "Peter. A strong name. You're not married, I know that, but what about your son's father, are you still together?" My heart sank - how could I explain to her that I didn't know who the father was? But I don't lie, so let's face the truth. I told her that Peter's father was someone I met at a party and never saw again. She looked at me seriously, but there was no judgment in her eyes. Then she said: "You have my respect, Catherine. It's not easy being a single mother, and it's very difficult to tell truths like this when you know they might trigger others' judgment. Thank you for your trust and honesty. Go take care of the daycare arrangements for your son, we'll continue this afternoon - no need to rush." I thanked her and said goodbye, heading off to meet Mel and Peter. My admiration and respect for Mrs. Taylor only grew. She's a woman in her mid-fifties, with very light blonde hair and almost transparent blue eyes. She's a beautiful and elegant woman, but most importantly, she's very welcoming. We got along very well. During the rest of the morning, she filled me in with information about the work, and I took notes on everything. At lunchtime, I left the building, and Mel was already waiting at the door with Peter. I got in the car, and we went to lunch before heading to the daycare. Mel and I loved the daycare, and Peter was already fitting in, running around with his new little friends - he's such an outgoing boy. That made me so happy! My son was happy! We decided not to look at other daycares since this one was excellent and very close to home, just three blocks away. We completed the enrollment and sorted out all the details. The director suggested we let Peter stay until the end of the day since he was having fun and could start adapting. Mel agreed to pick him up at the end of the day. Mel dropped me back at the company and told me she'd head home to prepare for her job interview later in the afternoon. I returned to my office, arriving before Mrs. Taylor. I sat at the desk and started reviewing everything she had already told me. The phone on the desk rang, and I wasn't sure what to do, but since this would be my desk, I answered in my most professional voice: "Miller Group, Executive Office, good afternoon, how may I help you?" I heard a deathly silence on the other end followed by a long sigh. Someone spoke up with obvious impatience, in a strong and slightly hoarse voice: "Put Mariana on." I was startled but kept my composure and replied: "I'm sorry, sir, but Mrs. Taylor hasn't returned from lunch yet. May I help you, or would you like to leave a message?" "Who is this speaking," he asked, even more impatiently. "My name is Catherine, I'm Mr. Miller's new executive assistant." "But I don't know you," he seemed to grow more impatient with each word. "It's my first day here, sir. Would you like to leave a message?" "Tell Mariana to call me as soon as she sets foot in the office." "Certainly, sir. And your name is?" "Looks like I'm your boss!" He snapped and hung up. Wow, what a stressed-out man! This wasn't in the job description. My throat immediately tightened. Had I already made a bad impression on my boss? I was so screwed! I started thinking I wouldn't last long in this job. Shortly after, Mrs. Taylor arrived and I passed on the message with a worried look on my face. She looked at me with a smile, as if understanding my concern, and asked: "Was he calm?" I looked at her and couldn't help myself: "He was on the verge of a nervous breakdown. I'm pretty sure I could see his jugular vein popping out of his neck." She burst out laughing and then said: "You two are going to get along great! You'll tame the beast, I'm sure of it." I wasn't so sure about that. Maybe I shouldn't even unpack my bags, this man was going to eat me alive!		Random Reading		353	https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683941	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/13/25, 7:54 AM	1739147244	1749819247		2524																										fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more			IMAGE	Read next chapter		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=673595984708315&exdata=F9458907D5605AE9CBB2F98CFF3BBB5F8788567ABE76641D			1.0903469850659E+14	Popular romance stories	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476410495_638408238560905_8927541900646715839_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iVXK21-LfRoQ7kNvgGFgP4G&_nc_oc=AdhvEuFTBMy6cjG8-s-jXa-h6AA9vb03lxSySPQwF9vML7EH1BdTiAs_zOCdpsdJa8rXCpHEBCU-Jb4l7Q354gqE&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYA7VaKYDrmFe5AiwfSQMiI1s7RhBpkZKwTg3HM9JlqjGQ&oe=67AEFF96	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		On her wedding day, her stepsister set her up, framing her with accusations of promiscuity, academic fraud, and attempted murder. She was personally brought to court by her fiancé and imprisoned for three years, enduring inhuman torment! ===== 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) &9&		Popular romance stories		17983	https://www.facebook.com/100083149047490/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683937	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/13/25, 10:20 AM	1739147241	1749828032		2524																										fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more			VIDEO	Read next chapter		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=673595984708315&exdata=F9458907D5605AE910554BC6DEED4735DE634080E243CD8F			1.0903469850659E+14	Popular romance stories	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476609780_9655733274471730_2729872517835344194_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TeT2UqYLu9sQ7kNvgELKVem&_nc_oc=Adht-l-2g8k2A2mtwSCfbrBMZWa3MhwvmQ6sF4mi4thZj0M69fT9kvxeOczxQDt_-nNd2j6B75ppZ5S21tP59RmP&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYB-3zFvF0yQVwAeTDXKnm-1k450wS4a_bj6pPfC0mi7zQ&oe=67AF1D82	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		On her wedding day, her stepsister set her up, framing her with accusations of promiscuity, academic fraud, and attempted murder. She was personally brought to court by her fiancé and imprisoned for three years, enduring inhuman torment! ===== 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) &9&		Popular romance stories		17983	https://www.facebook.com/100083149047490/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete
2683950	1	active	2/9/25, 6:27 PM	6/13/25, 1:55 PM	1739147248	1749840904		2524																										heplk.com	Learn more			VIDEO	ここをクリックして無料でお読みください！		https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&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}}			3.1105348876231E+14	女の子が読みたい小説を大特集	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474712055_577722768364267_8034908614325625082_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=S2-QmsYB89QQ7kNvgFv-Sam&_nc_oc=AdhBimboYosWbLrDGrB3GWTVdgufcYaav6VWoztbbfGSV9lOEBt99Ehr7HZkvbzaE9eN9deN5N210lIqwkSw5LHi&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ALJgWwX5HMfjm-gtKoNDS62&oh=00_AYBQhwMAd30L77TuuyIaQyMhQeaDX8dWeyT9Xxgb4WgYiw&oe=67AF2B78	PERSON_PROFILE	0					0		高橋優子が末期癌と診断されたその日、夫の佐藤峻介は、初恋の相手の子供の世話をしていた。 ... 病院で、中村悠斗が渋い顔で言った。「優子さん、手術が成功すれば、生存率は15%から30%になる。」 優子はかばんのひもを細い指でぎゅっと握りしめ、青ざめた小さな顔に深い陰りを浮かべていた。 「先輩、もし手術を受けなければ、どのくらい生きられるの？」 「半年から1年ぐらい。」 優子は唇をぎゅっと噛みしめ、やっと言葉を吐き出した。「先輩、このことは秘密にしてちょうだい。家族を心配させたくないの。」 高橋家はすでに破産しており、優子は父親の医療費を工面するだけでも精一杯だった。 悠斗は諦めたように言った。「口外しないよ。でも、結婚していると聞いた。旦那さん――」 「お父さんのことはお願いね。もう行かないと。」優子は夫の話題を避けるように、早々にその場を立ち去った。 父親の治療が始まってからの2年間、夫である佐藤峻介は一度も姿を見せたことがなかった。彼女が倒れて通行人に病院へ運ばれた時でさえもだ。 かつては彼も優子を大切にしていた。だが、初恋の相手である松本里美が妊娠した状態で帰国してから、すべてが変わった。 優子もかつて妊娠していたことがあった。ある日、湖で松本里美とともに落水した時、必死にもがきながら、彼が里美に向かって泳いでいく姿を見た。 後、里美は無事に子どもを産んだ。でも優子は母親になる機会を奪われた。 7日後、峻介は離婚を求めたが、彼女は拒否した。 だが、病気のことを知った今、彼女は震える手で彼の電話をかけた。 3回目のコールでつながると、彼の冷たい声が聞こえてきた。「離婚以外の用件なら、お前に会う気はない。」 優子は涙をこらえ、癌の話を切り出すことができなかった。すると電話の向こうから里美の声が聞こえてきた。「峻介君、そろそろ赤ちゃんの定期検査よ。」 その瞬間、こらえていた涙が一気に溢れ出した。すべてを終わらせる時が来たのだ。 優子はこ震える声で、絞り出すようにぽつりと呟いた。「峻介……もう、離婚しよう。」 峻介は一瞬、驚いたようだったが、冷笑して言った。「優子、今度はどんな手を使うつもりだ？」 「家で待ってるから。」 峻介は、電話が突然切られた後、呆然とスマホを見つめていた。 一年間拒否し続けてきた優子が、なぜ今急に同意したのだろう？ 彼女に会いに行くことを決めた。 「峻介、どこに行くのよ？」里美が子どもを抱えながら追いかけてきた。 しかし、彼は何も言わず立ち去った。その瞬間、里美の優しい表情はみるみるうちに恐ろしいほど暗くなった。 あの女……また何か仕掛けてきたわね！ 玄関のドアが開いたとき、優子はテーブルのそばに立っているスーツを着た背が高い男性を見た。整った顔立ちは氷のように冷たく、その暗い瞳には優子への軽蔑が浮かんでいた。 「どこに行ってたんだ？」峻介が冷たく尋ねた。 「そんなことはいつから気にするの？」 「離婚届にサインしてもらう必要がある。」 その言葉は鋭い針のように彼女の心を刺した。濡れた体を引きずりながら、彼女はカバンから書類を静かに取り出した。 「心配する必要がない。もうサイン済みだ。」 彼女が書類をテーブルの上に置いたとき、峻介は「離婚」という二文字がこれほどまでに不愉快に思えたことはなかった。優子が唯一要求したのは、2億円の慰謝料だった。 「どうして急に同意したのかと思ったら、結局金のためか。」彼の顔が嘲笑を浮かべた。 かつてなら、自分を弁護するかもしれない。でも、今彼女はただ静かに言った。「本来なら、佐藤さんの資産の半分を請求する権利があるわ。でも、私は2億円しか要求しなかった。これでも、まだ情けをかけてるつもりよ。」 峻介は一歩前に進み、長い影が優子を覆った。彼は彼女の顎を細長い指で掴み、冷たい声で言った。「今、何て呼んだ？」 「佐藤さん、もしこの呼び方が嫌なら、元夫と呼び直してもいいわよ。さあ、書類にサインして帰ってもらっていい？」 彼は不愉快そうな顔をした。「ここは俺の家だ。出て行けと言う権利はお前にはあるかい。」 優子は皮肉げに微笑み、言った。「確かに、その権利はないわ。でも、安心して、佐藤さん。離婚証明書を受け取ったら、すぐに出て行く。」 また、彼の手を振り払い、冷たい目で彼を見つめた。「明日の朝9時、市役所で書類を持ってきてください。」 翌朝、日の出前には優子は出発しようとした時、病院から電話がかかってきた。「高橋さん、お父さんが心臓発作を起こしました。」 「えっ？すぐ向かいます！」 病院に到着すると、手術はまだ続いていた。 今、唯一の希望は父が健康で生き続けることだけだった。 看護師が手術費用の請求書を手渡してきた。総額は300万円以上。 でも、以前支払った入院費で残金はたったの10万円。どうしても足りなかった。 仕方なく、峻介に電話をかけた。 冷たい声が聞こえる。「どこだ？もう30分待っている。」 「急なことがあって――」 「優子、これでおもしろい？」峻介が鼻で笑う。「どうせまた嘘をついているんだろう？」 そんな！ 「嘘じゃない！父が心臓発作を起こして手術が必要なの！――」 「それで、死んだのか？」峻介が遮った。 その言葉に、優子は耳を疑った。そんな言い方する人がいるのか？ 「いいえ！峻介、手術費が300万円以上かかるの。だから慰謝料を先に振り込んでくれない？必ず離婚するから！」 「優子、俺が誰よりも君の父親の死を望んでいることを理解しているよな。金を渡すのはいいだろう、でも手続きが終わった後にだ。」 それだけ言うと、電話は切られた。 優子の顔には困惑が浮かんでいた。かつて彼は父に対して敬意を払っていたはずだった。しかし、今の彼の声には本気の憎しみが滲んでいた。 なぜだ？ 2年前の高橋家の破産と結びつけて考えると、偶然の出来事とは思えなくなってきた。 もうしかして、峻介が裏で何かを仕掛けたのだ。しかし、実家は一体どうやって彼を怒らせてしまったのだろう？ 今、考え込む余裕もなく、父の治療費を何とかするのが最優先だった。 手術室の扉が開いた。「先生？」 「髙橋さん、お父様はなんとか持ちこたえました。」 優子はようやく胸を撫で下ろした。 介護人に父を任せ、市役所に急いだが、峻介はどこにもなかった。 焦て電話をかける。「市役所に着いたわ。どこにいるの？」 「事務室だ。」 「今すぐ離婚手続きを済ませに来てくれない？」 峻介は薄く笑って言った。「数億円の契約とお前、どっちが大事だと思う？」 「終わるまで待つから……峻介、お願い、今父はお金が必要なの。」 「もし死んだら、葬式代を出してやるよ。」それだけ言うと、彼は電話を切った。 再び電話をかけたが、すでに電源が切られた。 優子は息が詰まるような感覚に襲われた。 彼女はあっという間に全てを失ってしまった。 今、優子が持っている唯一の価値あるものは、結婚指輪だけだった。 彼女は指輪を外し、高級宝飾店に足を踏み入れた。 「お客様、購入時の領収書と証明書はお持ちですか？」 「はい。」優子は急いで書類を差し出した。 「ありがとうございます。指輪は検査に出す必要があるので、明日またご連絡させていただけますか。」 優子は切迫した声で言った。「急いでいるんです。今日中にお願いします。」 「はい。」店員が指輪を持ち去ろうとしたその時、ある白くて繊細な手が指輪ケースを押さえた。 「この指輪、とても素敵ね。私が買うわ。」 顔を上げた優子の目に飛び込んできたのは、彼女がこの世で最も憎んでいる人物――松本里美だった		女の子が読みたい小説を大特集		141	https://www.facebook.com/61559954921868/	0		LEARN_MORE								View Edit Delete

Related Tags